Add to favorites

Is there anything more annoying than waiting around? Waiting for the doctor, waiting in line, waiting to meet your friend who’s always late, waiting on hold on the phone… It feels like such a waste of time, not to mention that it’s incredibly boring. The bad news is that there’s not much we can do about those waiting times- they’re pretty much a part of life. But the good news is that there are many good ways to make use of it- think of it like some bonus free time in your busy day and soon you won’t mind waiting around at all! Here are some things you can do while you’re waiting:

1. Stretch:

Most of us spend too much time sitting- in our cars or at our desks. Stretch out your cramped muscles and you’ll feel great!

2. Meditate:

Not to get too “new-agey” on you, but meditating is a really good way to rest your mind and body. Even one minute will make a difference, and there are all kinds of guided meditations on YouTube, so pick one that sounds good to you and get zen.

3. Play a brain game:

Keeping your brain active will keep you sharp and can help prevent dementia. There are lots of apps that are designed to challenge your brain and they’re fun, too.

4. Organize your apps:

A clean and neat home screen saves time and just looks good! Organize your apps into folders and they’ll always be easier to find.

5. Start a conversation:

Sharpen your social skills by starting a conversation with someone else who’s also waiting. Small talk is valuable, and who knows- you might even make a new friend!

6. Write a gratitude list:

We’re often so busy with the details of the everyday that we forget to notice the blessings in our lives. Recognizing your blessings is a key component of true happiness, so use your time and write down the things that you’re grateful for.

7. Plan your meals for the week:

Meal planning is a smart way to ensure smart and healthy eating. Plan up a week of menus and even write a shopping list to make it easy to eat right.

8. Clean out your purse:

Go through your purse and get rid of old receipts, expired coupons, and candy wrappers. Just be careful how you dispose of papers with your name and other personal info.

9. Do some deep breathing:

Deep breathing is refreshing and renewing. Breathe in deeply for a count of 4, hold it for 4 seconds, and count to 5 while you exhale. Do this ten times.

10. Daydream:

You know what? There’s nothing wrong with a little daydreaming! It’s relaxing and creative, and you never know- it might lead to some creative ideas that you can actually act on!

Good list, right? Try some of these ideas next time you’re waiting around and see how fast the time goes by!

What do you do while you’re waiting? Share with us on Facebook and Twitter!