I know, I know. You never have time. Believe me, I understand. But every once in a while, I find myself with some blissfully peaceful time when nothing else needs to be done; when I don't need to be conducting phone interviews, responding to emails, writing articles, doing homework, sleeping, going to office hours, running errands, or darting around campus. And in these rare moments of tranquility, I find myself asking a very basic and disturbing question: now what? What do I do when I have nothing to do? What can I distract myself with so I don't have to sit here facing emptiness? Sound familiar? If so, read on for 7 simple tips for how to fill those (brief) minutes of nothingness.
1. Read
When's the last time you read? For fun. Without someone making you and without having to write a paper about the words you're staring at? It's an amazing feeling and it's still so productive since it's such an effective learning method. Read the newspaper and keep yourself updated on current events. Read fiction novels and allow your imagination to wander. Read clickbait Buzzfeed articles and find out what kind of cheese best represents your relationship status. Just put words into your brain. I promise it'll feel great and you won't be able to stop.
2. Meditate
I know this is the go-to for how to relax but seriously just close your eyes and allow yourself to think (or not to think at all). I know that meditation, or even just sitting quietly for a few minutes, helps me remember things I've completely forgotten about and has made me overall so much more productive. Next time you have a couple of minutes, try it. It doesn't require any fancy equipment or complicated steps and the outcome makes it so worthwhile.
3. Nap
Scientifically speaking, 10-20 minutes is all you need to go through one sleep cycle and wake up feeling rested, rather than lethargic. So set a quick alarm and get some shut-eye so you can wake up rejuvenated and productive.
4. Work out
You don't have to run a marathon or go to an hour-long Zumba class to count it as "working out". Just do some yoga, go for a walk, or hop on a bike for 20 minutes to get your blood pumping and clear your mind. Your body (and your brain) will thank you.
5. Declutter
Remember that CD your grandma got you for your birthday that you'll never ever listen to? Donate it. Try on your old clothes and give away the ones you don't wear anymore. Throw out the gross leftovers in your fridge and those broken shoes you just can't bear to part with. Clean room, clean mind.
6. Catch up with friends
Grab a cup of coffee, make a phone call, or even just shoot them a text letting them know you were thinking of them. In the midst of your busy life it's easy to forget that other people are busy and stressed out too.
7. Enjoy the nothingness
It's easy to want to fill every minute of every day but sometimes it's important to just do nothing; to be in that moment without anticipating what's coming next. Try to enjoy a few moments of nothingness, just enjoying life without the need to fill every minute of every day.
