If You Enjoy Wasting Time, It’s Not Wasted Time

We’ve all been there: doing something that feels utterly pointless, like refreshing the fridge every 15 minutes or listening to the same song on repeat while staring at the ceiling. But what if I told you that these “wasted” moments might actually be good for you? That instead of beating yourself up for being “unproductive,” you should lean in, enjoy it, and give yourself credit for living in the moment.

After all, if you enjoy wasting time, is it really wasted? I think not. Let’s explore this concept through some relatable examples and a dash of humor.

Example 1: Scrolling Through Social Media Like There’s No Tomorrow

There’s something oddly comforting about endlessly swiping through Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook (yes, some of us still use it). Are you learning anything life-changing? Probably not. But you’re bonding with your inner couch potato, which is an important relationship to nurture. Besides, where else would you find a video of a cat playing Jenga or someone reviewing 50 brands of toothpaste?

Here’s the thing: it’s okay to get lost in the digital void sometimes. That mindless scrolling? It’s a brain break! It lets you disconnect from the stress of work and enjoy a little absurdity. And honestly, who doesn’t need more baby otters in their life?

Example 2: Reorganizing Apps Like You’re Designing the Sistine Chapel

Why is “Productivity” always on page two of your phone? Should “Games” and “Shopping” really be next to each other? You’ll never know unless you spend a solid 30 minutes rearranging your apps into perfect little categories, only to move them back two days later.

This seemingly frivolous task is actually a way of asserting control over your digital life, even if it’s superficial. Plus, it’s oddly therapeutic. Those few minutes of pointless tapping can leave you feeling like you’ve achieved something, even if it’s just putting “Calculator” next to “Weather.”

Example 3: Pantry Recon Every 15 Minutes

The pantry is a magical place full of potential snacks and broken dreams. You know there’s nothing new in there—you’ve already checked—but you look anyway, hoping a bag of chips or a forgotten cookie will materialize. Spoiler: it won’t.

Still, this ritual isn’t just about food. It’s about hope, the thrill of possibility, and maybe even avoiding the actual task you’re supposed to be doing. Plus, opening and closing the pantry door technically counts as exercise, right?

Example 4: The Great Streaming Search Marathon

Ah, the paradox of choice: spending 45 minutes browsing Netflix or Hulu, only to rewatch a comfort show you’ve seen a hundred times (The Office, anyone?). Is this a waste of time? Absolutely. But is it also self-care? Definitely.

When you finally settle on that familiar series or movie, it’s like wrapping yourself in a warm, fuzzy blanket of nostalgia. You’re not just watching TV; you’re recharging your emotional batteries. Sometimes, knowing exactly what’s going to happen is the ultimate stress reliever.

Example 5: Staring at the Ceiling While Listening to the Same Song on Repeat

There’s nothing quite like lying on your bed, eyes fixed on the ceiling, with your favorite song playing on a loop. Sure, it’s the auditory equivalent of eating the same meal every day, but it’s also strangely satisfying. Each replay lets you sink deeper into your thoughts, or maybe even no thoughts at all. And that’s the beauty of it: you’re giving your brain a rare chance to just be.

Example 6: Building Dream Vacations You’ll Never Take

You know those trips you plan while scrolling through Travelocity, picking hotels, flights, and maybe even day tours for your hypothetical Paris getaway? You know you’re not going. Either your vacation days have vanished into the corporate void, or your bank account laughed out loud when you considered booking. But does that stop you? Absolutely not.

Creating these imaginary itineraries isn’t just procrastination—it’s an exercise in hope and possibility. Even if you never make it to Rome, dreaming of a perfect gelato-filled afternoon by the Colosseum can feel almost as satisfying. (Okay, almost.) Plus, it’s basically free therapy.

Why Wasting Time Matters

Here’s the secret: time you enjoy wasting is never truly wasted because it serves a purpose. It gives your mind a break, your emotions a reset, and your soul a little joy. In our productivity-obsessed world, it’s easy to feel guilty about doing “nothing,” but those moments of perceived idleness are often where creativity and relaxation are born.

Think about it: some of humanity’s best ideas came during so-called wasted time. Newton wasn’t hustling; he was chilling under a tree when gravity struck. J.K. Rowling was staring out a train window when Harry Potter wandered into her brain. Sometimes, being unproductive is the most productive thing you can do.

So, the next time you catch yourself staring at the fridge, scrolling through TikTok, or giving Netflix way too much of your attention span, don’t feel bad. Remind yourself that these moments are little gifts to your sanity. Productivity will wait; memes, snacks, and ceiling-staring can’t.

Because let’s face it: life’s too short not to waste a little time now and then. Now go—embrace the art of doing nothing. Just maybe stop opening the fridge. The snacks really aren’t multiplying.

Light Hearted