How to Stay Productive When You Have Nothing to Do

Great question, Shamsa.

So, just imagine this: what if you transformed that feeling of having nothing to do into a positive opportunity? Here's an idea: why not drum up a side hustle to fund a charity that addresses a world problem of your choice? Since you heard it from me, I ask only that whatever it is both the side hustle and the charity do not involve violence. This can be a powerful way to combine self-improvement with contributing to the greater good.

Asked: How can I productively spend my day when I have nothing to do?

You Poor Soul, Nothing to Do?

Oh, you poor soul, feeling nothing to do! For many people, that’s the ultimate goal of their life. You know the so-called “idle rich” who have “nothing but time on their hands” and the luxury of spending it without worry. They worked for decades so they could enjoy their golden years with “nothing to do.” If that’s you, congratulations! You’ve already reached the goal. But if that’s not you, we can explore options for how to make the most of the time you have.

What Would You Like to Do?

Unfortunately, you provided no personal details about yourself, such as how you survive, pay your way, or if you're just a bored kid on summer vacation. That makes it challenging to give a definitive answer to your query. What are your ambitions or desires in life? Do you have any hobbies or interests that you could spend time on while you have the opportunity?

It's important to remember that the time you have now is not empty; it's just that you're not making use of it.

Options and Suggestions

Try Finding a Job: Earning money and gaining experience is always a time well spent, as it can provide you with funds for your future when you decide to have 'time off.' Even a part-time job doing something menial like cleaning or working in a shop can be fulfilling. It gets you out of the house, meeting people, interacting with others, and maybe even making friends.

Produce Something: If you have 'nothing to do,' try producing something. Paint your masterpiece or write some poems. There are undoubtedly other options, but even if you don’t find a job, you can still get busy with a project or activity. Don't just sit around all day, playing with your phone. Turn it off, head out for a walk in the park, or go to the library. Even if you're not in school, you can still educate yourself by reading a book or joining a club, doing voluntary work with kids or the elderly, or helping at a soup kitchen. There's always someone worse off than yourself, and if you can offer help, you'll always be welcomed for your kindness.

Engage with the World: Having ‘nothing to do’ isn’t a “real thing.” It’s simply a sign that you’re not engaging with the world around you. If you manage to be at the loose end, most people I know out of school or college have to get a job to pay their way. Only the 'idle rich' are free to spend their days as they wish, so you should count yourself lucky if you find yourself with the freedom to do as you choose.

If you're bored and disengaged, you need to get yourself fired up and make something happen. Chances are, the world isn't going to come to your door. First, you need to get off your ass and get out and go looking. That's the first step. After that, life can surprise you, offering you new directions and interests. Life has given you a line and a pole, but if you don't cast your hook into the water, you're never going to catch a fish. It's up to you to make something happen, find a direction, and take an interest in your own life.

Enough from me. Over to you. Get up, get out, and see what you can make happen when you try. Nothing will ever happen in your life if you're not prepared to make effort. That’s the first rule. Give it a go. Life loves a trier!

All the best.