Are you wondering what productive things to do with your free time?

We have all been there, wondering what to do with all our free time during some of the most crucial lockdowns worldwide. Whether you’re reading this during the worldwide pandemic or just bored out of your mind, this little article will enlighten you.

Have you ever heard of the statement: The analysis of paralysis 

This simply means: we have too much information on a certain subject and it becomes overwhelming which in turn becomes paralyzing. 

And we do nothing. 

For more obvious reasons we either choose not to do them or refuse to do them all together feeling shame, guilt and unproductive. 

Just because you are locked indoors doesn’t mean that the only options are Netflix or Instagram.

There are plenty of things that you can definitely do to catapult your life ahead. And if you’re reading this during in the worldwide lockdown then you will be ready to jump right in after it all passes.

Here is a list where we break down 12 things you can do right now that will not only make you feel productive but will push you forward. 

Things to do to stay productive

1. Plan a future trip (i.e beach trip or world travel)

When planning a trip there are many things you have to piece together before you’re ready to jet off.  Since there are plenty of things that need to be done, what a better way to spend your time than starting to plan. 

You can start by checking out the best time to travel and find out the weather patterns of places you want to visit. You can look up airline tickets and find out which are the cheapest tickets and when is the cheapest time to fly.  

If you are planning for a beach trip, then it is best to start planning for that trip now and seeing what the weather will be like. Weather patterns can be so different from California vs. Florida beaches. They are so unique in their own ways and amazing to visit in their own times!

2. Start shopping for your trip

Whether you are planning to go to the gorgeous Caribbean islands or heading to South America on vacation there are certain kinds of clothes you need. Having the proper attire for a winter trip is way different than having proper attire to let’s say a Caribbean trip to the Bahamas.  

Start planning your attire ahead of time with the clothes you have or start your online shopping for some clothes that you need to help complete your trip.

If you’re planning a beach vacation, then definitely read our blog on the top 15 beach dresses to wear on your next beach paradise here. You can definitely find the cutest and latest beach trends to take on your next beach trip!

3. Clear out clutter that you don’t use or need

Getting rid of junk is not only very well needed, but also very liberating.  If something new comes in then you let go of that something old.

Let’s face it, we have a lot of stuff we either don’t use or stopped using altogether. Let’s get rid of useless things that are just taking up our energy and space. 

One of my favorite books is called  the Joy of Less. After you read this book you will know what I’m talking about.

4. Read a book

Sure I understand not a lot of people are not bookworms and you don’t have to be to read a good book. Reading in general not only helps stimulate your brain, but definitely keeps you entertained for hours. 

Studies have shown that reading enhances the synaptic pathways between your neurons. All in all, reading makes you smarter. Reading any book, in general, is very intuitive to you and your brain.  If your brain could talk, it would say thank you.

5. Learn a New Language

Another thing you can do in your free time is to learn a new language. Use free platforms such as Youtube or Duolingo. Whether you are planning a trip to the Bahamas or internationally, it is best to learn native words when you arrive. The locals will really appreciate the intent you make on learning something rather than nothing. 

Check with your local library website, some libraries actually offer free learning programs to learn a new language. My local library provided me with what I need to learn some Balinese before jetting. I definitely used programs such as Rocket Languages and Mango! #supergrateful

6. Learn a New Skill on Lynda.com or Skillshare

These two platforms are one of the best ways to learn something new. Whether you want to learn how to use Photoshop or how to become a photographer, these programs have the best tutorials you can find. 

I highly recommend learning the skills from either of these two platforms since there is an abundant amount of things you can learn using your downtime.

7. Contact close friends and family 

Oftentimes we forget about people we have met on previous trips or we sometimes forget about friends in general. It is always nice to shoot a random text or email to old friends just to see how they are doing. If it’s someone you met while studying abroad, you may just plan your future trip there and visit. 

Recently I was shocked that one of my friends I met 7 years ago in Spain messaged me and it was the most heartfelt warming message I can find. After catching up we decided to plan a trip abroad to visit her. 

8. Exercise

One of the best things you can do for yourself and your body is exercise. Whether you do it indoors or outdoors, your body will gladly thank you.  

Turn up your Bluetooth speaker or pop in those headphones and find your favorite workout person on Youtube or live class online. 

You will notice that you will not only sleep better, but you will feel less stressed and more productive after doing a good exercise routine.

9. Get some fresh air outside

If it is permitted, definitely take a nice stroll outside. Sometimes we need to be outside for a little bit in order to just feel refreshed and ready to go. One of the best things you can do is go on a 30-minute stroll outside. 

According to Fitbit, even just a 30min walk will help you feel better mentally and emotionally.

10. Try meditation 

Meditations are probably one of the hardest things for many people to do, but it is definitely necessary to clear your mind to feel more refreshed and relaxed. You can find free meditations on YouTube or any app.

Try different ones and see what works for you! Even meditating for 1 minute can make a difference.

11. Make Something Delicious

One of the most popular things to do is to make a meal or bake something yummy.

Especially when you’re bored, you can spend a great deal of cooking or baking. What a better way to pass the time than to make something yummy and fun. You may just awaken the chef within. 

I know I have done this many times and it has definitely been very rewarding. Learning to bake or cook will not only be fun and challenging but you can reap all the rewards after your done.

12. Listen to a podcast or to some relaxing music

There are plenty and I mean plenty of Podcasts that you can listen to. Whether you want to listen to comedy, business, or inspiration there isn’t something you can’t name. Podcasting has become more popular with time.  You can find anything with podcasting.

In addition, another thing to do is to listen to some soothing music. They say that music is the universal language since many people can feel it. So grab your phone and your headset and jam out to some nice music.

Conclusion

With the worldwide pandemic going on in almost all of the world, we can definitely use our time more wisely in a manner that will allow us to accomplish more. 

If you’re reading this blog during the worldwide pandemic or if you are just looking to kill time, either or we can learn to spend our time more wisely by choice.  Hopefully, this will provide you with some tools to keep you busy.

Some things that you can do with your downtime may include planning for a near-future trip. Whether it is a beach vacation or an international trip, it always is best to plan ahead of time. What a better way to do it than with your downtime. 

Other things you can do is organize your home, play a board game, or make your favorite dessert. Challenging your brain to do more is one of the best things you can do with your downtime.

So don’t let your brain power go to waste and instead pick up a book or learn a new language. Recently I started learning French and I have been enjoying doing this in my downtime.

There are many productive things to do with our time, it’s a matter of how creative we can get.