5 ways to stay productive during your free time

We all are prolonging to revolutionize our thinking and becoming a better version of ourselves. Most of us don’t have a clue on where to begin with when it comes to making most out of our time. These five simple and easy-to-do habits may or may not change the way you sort out your time for good. I’ve come up with a list from my own experience and can’t wait to reveal it to those who need some tips/advice. Let the growth experience begin!

1. Library

Now that COVID-19 pandemic restrictions begin to ease in many places around the world (I can speak for the west coast of USA), many places we used to be able to visit in just a matter of minutes begin to open with a few restrictions in place like masks, social distancing etc.

One of those venues include the library. Being a regular visitor of the library, I find this place to be the most rejuvenating spots. Depending on which library you go to, you can always come across libraries that include possibly a huge collection of books, audios, and more to choose from. At the same time, you have the comfort of taking advantage of the cool air inside the building if this applies to someone coming from a very heated area.

Reading can be one of the best exercises for the mind. With a variety of genres to choose from and knowledge continuing to advance at a rocket speed, it is the best time to feed your brain with extensive material that could be beneficial for an individual.

2. Gym

Exercise is one of those activities that has become almost essential in anybody’s life. The pandemic has shifted everyone’s routine towards a new direction. Now, many people chose to workout at home instead of joining a gym. A small study, conducted by JAMA Network Open, analyzed more than 7,400 self-reported weight measurements from about 270 middle-aged men and women across the country from February to June 2020. During that time, participants’ weight steadily increased by about 1.5 pounds per month. That monthly weight gain from February 2020 until June 2021, would be a 25-pound weight gain. Not saying that there was absolutely no way to resist this issue.

In fact, getting out for simply 15–20 minutes daily and going on a brisk walk, could be a potential life saver especially for those struggling to exercise when the gym’s are closed. Getting to the reason why gym can be one of those productive routines is because you are continuously engaging your body to movement, whether that be running on a treadmill or weight training. Exposing yourself to any exercise is the best thing one can do for his/her mind and body.

3. Volunteer

Volunteering is a great way to get your self out of your comfort zone and get the opportunity to learn new skills or make new connections. Whether it be setting up equipment or giving a shot at technology, you’ll be amazed to see how much work there goes in towards any direction of field. I clearly remember my time as a volunteer for the Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF) and my responsibilities. It was extremely engaging and relevant to what I wanted to learn.

Being a enthusiast about learning different cultures and traditions, the SIFF introduced me to many films that don’t get as much as recognition possible but seem to have quality audiences and production. Films from around the world were selected and it was pleasing to interreact with other volunteer enthusiasts.

4. De-clutter

‘Minimalism’, or the new method lifestyle of having to live with limited things, has become popular lifestyle amongst groups of people who chose to remain stress-free. Just have a look around your living space and count all of the things that you absolutely do not intend to use again. Take a moment to reflect on those items and decide whether you would like to reserve them or not.

Getting rid of things could keep your mind on the safe side, since the possibility of increasing space becomes easier. Do you have unwanted clothes lying around? Or pieces of paper not being used? Considered tossing them away and making space for sense of clarity. Later on, you’d be surprised to know how emptiness might end up being the solution.

When I was getting rid of things that were absolutely no use to me, I began to prioritize my time the right way instead of just wasting it. I also have absolutely no means to consume ever again the things that I don’t need which helps in the long run.

5. Create

We are often told that “we should follow our heart or passion”. When you are given access to so much time and resources, when could it possibly be the best time to start doing the things you enjoy the most? Let’s say for example, I enjoy reading and writing since it really bring values to me. So I instantly made it a habit to write blogs like this one. When you automatically shift your mind towards activities you enjoy, it can give you a sense of purpose and direction.

“Creativity is intelligence having fun” — Albert Einstein

Our circumstances might be unconnected, so ahead and prioritize your own time through your own lens if you feel these five activities cannot fit into your schedule. I’ve shared my top five routine activities which have given me a sort of sense of purpose and direction amidst the pandemic situation, and I’m confident you can take away some wisdom from this list.