Why not swap unnecessary screen time for these quick and easy activities?
(Photo credit: Pamela Drew, flickr 2018)
1. Bake brownies and then eat them (still warm)
You may not consider yourself a cook and seriously doubt your brownie-making skills but what have you got to lose? Nobody’s watching. If brownies don’t tickle your taste buds, why not try to bake a cake in a mug? Straightforward, easy, no-fuss and you don’t even need an oven. A great way to have some downtime.
Extra challenge: try not to post any food pics on social media afterwards.
2. Learn to play an instrument
There’s nothing the average procrastinator loves more than to start learning an instrument and promptly drop it after two days of mild concentration. Nothing wrong with that, we’ve all been there. Why not give it a go anyway? Who knows, you may discover a new passion. If you don’t know where to start, there are tons of easy-to-use apps that add to the fun of learning.
3. Wash clothes, throw them in the tumble dryer and change bedding with time to spare
You’re sprawled in bed, surrounded by empty takeaway cartons, with Netflix playing in the background. There’s a weird musky smell because you haven’t changed your sheets in, what, 100 years maybe? It’s grim, you recognise this, yet you can’t seem to muster the inclination to do anything about it. But if you grit your teeth and go for it, you really can get everything done in no time. Trust us, you’ll feel so much better about yourself and your surroundings.
4. Go for a stroll
There’s nothing better than an early morning walk in the park/beach/housing estate. Surrounded by nature and smiling dog walkers (and dogs), you’ll completely forget the dark recesses of social media. With your mind long-buried in the digital world, the first step might seem to be a struggle. But after hours ensnared by the glow of your screen, you’ll appreciate that sweet sunlight and fresh air. Just give it five minutes.
See also: Gaming IRL: From online to offline
5. Call a friend
We all have that one friend we often think about but never get round to contacting. Afraid you might be growing apart? Then why not give that person a call? One hour goes by so fast when you get lost in conversation with those you love. Been a while? Be sure to ask what’s going on in their lives, they’ll no doubt have much to tell. Social media can only give you so much insight into a person’s life. So if you really want to be involved and present, it’s worth reverting back to the old ways: basic verbal communication. It’s that simple.
6. Coffee, book, and people watching
If you’re sick of staring at a screen and need to get out but feel pressed for time, try a change of scenery and simply take your coffee to the nearest bench. Remember to bring reading material, whether it’s a magazine, newspaper or novel. If your mind starts to drift, try watching the world go by while sipping your coffee of choice. If this sounds too mundane, we recommend playing a guessing game to decipher the details of strangers’ lives as they pass you by.
7. Watch a documentary
It doesn’t sound exciting but we promise there’s a treasure-trove of stories buried in the depths of Netflix, just waiting to be discovered. Do a little digging to find a topic that interests you and you’ll quickly become hooked. Fashion, politics, murder, celebrities, food – you name it, there’s a docuseries for it! The best part is you can educate yourself and become more cultured and politically engaged without needing to leave your cosy bed.
