If you’re wearing a watch, take it off and put it away. If you have your phone on you, try not to look at it for a long stretch of time. Before you know it, it’ll be time to call it a day. Try making it a challenge to see how long you can go without checking the time. Can you make it 5 minutes? How about 10?
You can also break up time by your workload or assignments. If you have 3 things left to do today, tackle the first one, then take a break. It will make time go by faster, and you’ll get a little reward for each item on your to-do list.
If you’re stuck at home on a long weekend or you don’t have anything to do after school, try out a new activity, game, or puzzle If you’re bored on a commute, try taking a different route to work.
Math worksheets or dense essays won’t be as engaging as creative projects (unless that’s your thing, in which case, go for it!) Ever stayed up all night because you were so engrossed in your work? Losing yourself in something tough and challenging can help you repeat the trick.
Go for a granola bar, some yogurt, an apple, or a smoothie to fill your stomach and give you the energy to finish up your work. It’s tempting to reach for the donuts or cookies, but eating a bunch of sugar can make you feel sluggish and tired—and when you’re moving slowly, time does, too.
Try taking a short walk around the block to stretch your legs. Or, jump some rope to get your heart rate up. If you’re at work, take a quick jaunt around the office (as long as you come back to finish up your work).
If you’re on a road trip, you can actually play I Spy with the other passengers (if they’re willing!)
If you’re finishing up a tough stint at school, try buying yourself that new sweater you’ve been eyeing. If you’re working on a particularly tough task at your job, go out for a drink once it’s done.
Make sure you aren’t distracting your conversation partner from their own work! That won’t make you very popular around the office or the school yard.
If you’re working on something super easy and you can handle being distracted, put on a podcast or an audiobook to really engage your brain.
You could also make a full spa day out of it, with face masks, leave-in conditioner, and a mani/pedi. If you don’t think a bath will distract you enough, put on some music or a podcast to listen to while you soak.
Hit the laundromat, go through a car wash, or do some yard work if you’re tired of being stuck inside. Admit it: it’s probably high time for a deep clean anyway, right?
Take your dog to the dog park to mix up your routine a little bit. Or, get your cat a new toy so you can run around the house together. If your pet needs some exercise too, combine your walk with their own to pass the time.
