If you have a lot of free time on your hands, you may get bored.
I know I did.
Even when I had a 9–5, I came back home to an empty apartment, not knowing “what to do with my life.” I didn’t want to Netflix for hours or scroll like a zombie on social. In fact, I can’t think of a better way to waste my time.
Here are some alternatives:
1/ Do what you’re good at
For me, it’s writing. I like to think I’m pretty good at it, and nothing else piques my interest the same way. Some people have no idea what they’re good at. The solution is to experiment. There’s probably something you’ve been wanting to do for a while — but couldn’t get yourself to start.
It could be a business, a hobby, or even something you did as a kid. No one can tell you what you’re good at. You’ll have to find out for yourself (but that’s the beauty of it). And if you really don’t know what to do, do something. Do anything.
Worst-case scenario, you’ll discover ten different things you don’t like doing — and go from there.
2/ Read a physical book
Books are a great alternative to online content.
I don’t know what I’d do without them. Instagram and TikTok are hectic, confusing, like a storm of signals fired at you at a million miles per hour. I treat those platforms like danger zones these days. I know once I launch the app, I can easily get sucked in.
But books are chill. Reading them calms the mind.
They’re an oasis. You might have to get used to them, since our TikTok brains are used to a much faster rate of stimulus. Once you do, though, they can be the greatest thing that ever happened to you.
I keep two books nearby — fiction and a nonfiction piece — and alternate between them throughout the week.
3/ Write a journal
Even if you’re not into writing, journaling your thoughts is a great way to relax.
It’s almost like you cut and paste them from your mind into a file.
It organizes your thoughts.
Journal at the edges of the day: early morning or before you go to sleep. Write about your goals and how you’re going to achieve them. If there’s any activity you’d like to repeat tomorrow — one that makes you feel great or gets you closer to your dreams — write it down too. If there’s something you’d like to avoid (things that drain your energy, for example), write it as well.
I like writing about challenges I want to get over. It gives me a sense of direction.
With time, you start noticing patterns.
Some things help improve your life, while others keep you stuck.
Conclusion
Social media is addictive and probably the best way to waste your life away. Honestly, I don’t think there’s much to look for on these platforms other than making money — and watching some cheap entertainment.
Our time is limited.
Let’s not waste it.