Ah, downtime. The one thing we’re always craving more of but somehow feel like we can never get enough of. In this day and age, the potential for downtime is endless. You have the whole world at your fingertips and resources your ancestors would be blown away by. Unfortunately instead of using free time to learn something new or even enjoy themselves, most people use their precious and valuable time to check out what other people are doing. I checked my screen time the other day and found out that I was on social media for a whopping 11 hours last week! Let’s just say I was a little ashamed and very embarrassed. In those 11 hours I could have read a book, started learning French, went on a road trip across the country, or put in over a full day at work. Instead, I spent 11 hours on Instagram and Twitter. In an effort to turn over a new leaf I decided to think of other ways I can spend my free time that do not involve checking up on Kylie Jenner. Here’s what I came up with:

Take an online course

There are so many free and informative courses available online. If you want to learn about blogging, travel, cooking, investing, etc., there’s a free course available for you. This is a great way to learn something new and interesting in your spare time. You’ll gain so much confidence knowing that you made an effort to learn something new while most people slacked off. If you want to get ahead in your career, search for an online course that correspond with the necessary skills you need. Khan Academy is a great resource for free online courses.

Listen to a podcast

Listening to a podcast is a great use of your downtime. Like an online course, listening to a podcast can be a great way to learn something new or have a good laugh or cry listening to the stories and experiences of others. There are so many great financial and personal development podcasts out there. My favorite podcasts to listen to are Tom Bilyeu Impact Theory and The Marie Forleo Podcast.

Reorganize your space

This is a great activity that will leave you feeling more organized. Your future self will thank you for cleaning up that junk drawer and the messy crevices of your bedroom. Once that’s done you’ll be able to see where you could use a little redecorating. Using candles and books to decorate and reorganize is a small effort that will add a huge, positive change to your space.

Make a bouquet

Making a bouquet is a fun, creative activity that will double as beautiful decor for your home. It’s very mentally healing to have plants and flowers in the home so not only will this look good but it will also have a soothing, positive effect on your mind. Buying bouquets are great but putting them together is even more satisfying. I love getting different pieces from Trader Joe’s and putting them together.

Even though sometimes it may feel easiest and most natural to use your downtime to watch TV or scroll on social media, it’s best to make the most of your free time so you can make the most out of your days. A little intentionality goes a very long way. Comment below how you spend your downtime!