articles to read when you're bored

50 Genius Things To Read When You’re Bored

1. Being able to tolerate the sound of your own voice in a video is probably the highest form of self acceptance.

2. Your dog doesn’t know you can make mistakes. When you trip over him in the dark, he thinks you got up just to kick him in the head.

3. Waterboarding at Guantanamo Bay sounds super rad if you don’t know what either of those things are.

4. April Fool’s Day is the one day of the year when people critically evaluate news articles before accepting them as true.

5. Brushing our teeth is the closest we ever come to cleaning our skeleton.

6. Of all the bodily functions that could be contagious, be thankful it’s a yawn.

7. “DO NOT TOUCH” would probably be a really unsettling thing to read in braille.

8. Dog food could say it’s any flavor it wants, you’re not going to test it.

9. We do not check the refrigerator multiple times to find new food, we check to see if our standards have dropped enough to eat what was available.

10. If a morgue worker dies they’d still need to come in to work one more time.

11. People who don’t understand how Clark Kent can pass as superman have never seen Tony Hawk without a skateboard.

12. Technically, your alarm tone is your theme song as it starts every episode.

13. Spider-Man almost certainly has auto-rotate turned off on his phone.

14. When filling up on gas, men are probably more likely to shake the gas nozzle before putting it back than women are.

15. Babies don’t know dreams aren’t real, so they must think they have some crazy adventures with you every night.

16. If a sloth were to clap, it will always sound sarcastic.

17. The international space station takes the smartest people on the planet and turns them into maintenance workers.

18. Technically, the mailman has never gotten in the house, so as far as the dog knows, his barking is working.

19. If you don’t wear the right clothes when you go for a run, you look like an insane person.

20. The way we treat moths vs how we treat butterflies is the prime example of pretty privileges.

21. There’s a neverending waterfall of poo hidden inside every skyscraper.

22. Maybe superheroes wear capes to hide the zipper on the back of their onesie.

23. Gummy worms have more bones in them than actual worms.

24. You aren’t paid according to how hard you work, you are paid according to how hard you are to replace.

25. Worms in apples has been less of a problem than what we expected as kids.

26. Mosquitoes sure are brave for creatures with only 1 hp.

27. If you can’t look back at your younger self and realize that you were an idiot, you are probably still an idiot.

28. If it weren’t for movies, the average person would probably have no idea what an elevator shaft looks like.

29. People who don’t indicate in traffic are people who are literally not willing to lift a finger to help co-operate.

30. Elsa is pretty athletic for a person that was locked up in her room since she was young until she turned 21.

31. If you don’t smoke pot because you’re afraid it’ll make you paranoid, you’re experiencing the side effect without even smoking.

32. Since The Matrix was released in 1999, cellphones have been replacing landlines and payphones, the only way that we were shown how to get out.

33. Ads before videos has sucked a lot of the fun out of Rick Rolling.

34. You know you’ve made it when your couches aren’t against a wall.

35. Eventually, most of the content on the internet will be from dead people.

36. While we sleep our brain makes up stories and then gets scared of them.

37. If you were bulletproof, you would probably live your entire life without knowing.

38. If magic was real it would just be a branch of science.

39. Women’s longer average lifespan is partially cancelled out by longer wait times at public restrooms.

40. Looney Toons doesn’t get enough credit for introducing countless children to classical music.

41. Future generations will have lots of high quality video footage of so many extinct animals.

42. It only takes one slow-walking person in the grocery store to destroy the illusion that you’re a nice person.

43. The number of guys that sit when they pee must have exploded when smartphones came out.

44. A wireless charger restricts your phone much more than a wired one does.

45. The degree to which one hates mosquitoes is typically based on how much mosquitoes love them.

46. A telltale sign you’re becoming an adult is when you first realize how freaking fast dust forms.

47. Dogs hear us talk all day, but if they bark for more than a minute we tell them to stop.

48. If humans naturally had horns, we’d probably have to shave them down to a socially acceptable length.

49. Lions are so badass, they became king of the jungle without even living there.

50. You’ve probably never seen your grandparents jump.

239 thoughts on “50 Genius Things To Read When You’re Bored”

I’m in school during tests and haven’t gotten in trouble yet.

wow im at school and i alos haaVENT GOT CAUGHT YET

Im at school taking a pooooooo

I’m at school

The lion one cought me by surprise

It’s exactly midnight and this is what I am doing with my life (ok it’s 12:01am)

i like this things hahahah oh and i’m also in a informtic technology lesson thats so bored:)

Orange is actually orange

i have no words

Im happy for this

NEED MOORRRRRREEEEEEEE!!!!!

what the h to the e to the double hockey sticks ll

heheehheheehehehehehehheheheheheheheheheheheheehehhehehehehehhehehehehehhehehehehehehehehhehehehehehhehehehehehehehehehehehehehhehehehehehehehehehheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheeheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheh

If I had horns I’d grow them out long as hell just to be annoying to people in theatres because I’m just an ass like that

why are pretty much all of us at school and we’ve never been caught. (This is including me)

Grandparents jump grandparents die

I’m not at school. I’m at work

used this to get out of reading a book at school, had way more fun than i thought i would

If any of these did more than make you roll your eyes then you’reanidiot.

It was so funny 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

This is to good to be true MAKE MORE EMIDIATLY or DIE

The phone charger line was next level i really liked it

Next level … really… I can’t stop thinking about the mosquito ones!

BRUH I NEVER THOUGHT ABOUT THESE THINGS

I finished school early, so this is my free time. I really enjoyed this and I hope you create more content like this! Thanks! :)

I HATE READING! FOR SCHOOL WOORKKK!!!!!!!!

I’m in bed just reading this. Midnight bike rides and bridge hopping is the best.

POV me in ISS

i was sad bcus the one fact on 47

i am at home sick

At shcool hehehehehehehehehehe

Why we all here

At church reading this lol

at scholl reading this lol

Leave a Comment

Stay up to date follow us on google news .

• Get Great Eclipse Photos with Your Phone
• The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones to Buy

19 Cool Websites to Look at When Bored

Stimulate your mind with these funny, geeky and weird web sites

• University of Ontario
• George Brown College
• Cloud Services
• Error Messages
• Family Tech
• Home Networking
• Around the Web

Your boredom stops here. Below are some of the coolest websites to visit when you need some internet caffeine.

Whether you need to kill some time or you're in the mood to laugh, learn, or be inspired, this list of cool sites is all you need. Add them to your bookmarks and visit often for fresh content.

Bored Panda

Wide range of content topics.

Easy to use.

Not all content is factual.

Could the name of this website be any more appropriate? Bored Panda is the place you want to be when you want to discover interesting and visually appealing content.

It's a blog that publishes regular updates on the coolest finds in travel, photography, illustration, animals, DIY, technology, design and all sorts of other great categories. You can also create an account to vote posts up or down.

Brain Pickings

Loads of content related to art, literature, and science.

Content curated from multiple sources.

Lots of text.

Somewhat cluttered appearance.

Boredom doesn't mean you should distract yourself with the simplest and most mind-numbing content out there on the web. Try expanding your knowledge by diving deep into the incredibly useful and thought-provoking blog posts on Brain Pickings, which is a popular blog run by MIT Fellow Maria Popova . She's the one who does all the research and writing for each post.

You can probably expect to find a few good books to add to your reading list just by subscribing to this blog.

Cutting edge information.

Lectures on an array of topics.

Video format not always suitable.

Unusual rating system.

TED has become a powerful organization in spreading ideas and knowledge. The nonprofit organization hosts conferences around the world where people of all walks of life share their amazing ideas and experiences through short speaking gigs.

If you have a pair of headphones handy, you should definitely check out this site. You can find video talks on practically any subject you're interested in.

Laughing Squid

Content focused on unique art, culture, and technology finds.

Daily email available.

Actually the blog of a web-hosting service.

Basic appearance.

Laughing Squid should be a favorite blog to check out just for all the wacky, inspiring and unbelievable stuff you can find there. You can find all sorts of highly visual posts about art, culture, and technology on this site, most of which are photos and videos.

It's updated with several new posts a day featuring the newest, freshest content. Posts are kept pretty short too, making it perfect for browsing casually.

Makes learning fun.

Family-friendly.

Video format not optimal for work or similar situations.

Some complex topics.

The Vsauce YouTube channel is an incredibly popular and successful channel (with several spinoff channels) that has attracted over 15 million subscribers. Videos focus on interesting educational content where channel creator Michael Stevens teaches viewers about all sorts of amazing topics, almost resembling a modern-day Bill Nye the Science Guy.

On the Vsauce website, you can browse through and watch videos across all Vsauce channels. 

Lots of unusual content.

Articles cite sources.

Some external links questionable.

Love weird stuff? Then you need to check out Oddee, one of the web's largest and most popular blogs featuring the craziest, strangest and most bizarre content you probably won't find anywhere else.

Most posts are numbered lists, complete with lots of photos and videos for you to look at. Categories include art, signs, places, objects, ads, science, medicine, home design, names, people, gifts, stories, tech and more.

Mental Floss

Reliable source of interesting news.

Newsletter available.

Ads can be distracting.

Cluttered appearance.

Mental Floss will leave you feeling like you actually learned something during the time you wanted to pass while browsing the web. Describing itself as "the encyclopedia of everything," the site offers content on some of life's most interesting questions.

You can read articles, view lists, watch videos, take quizzes and even brush up on some smart facts with Mental Floss on everything from science to pop culture. So go ahead and expand your knowledge with this one! 

The Useless Web

Funny and simple.

Very basic.

Hit or miss results.

Need a little something more entertaining? The Useless Web is a website that's somewhat similar, except that its only goal is to show you the most pointless websites that exist on the internet. Just click the big pink button to discover one, and it will automatically open in a new tab.

You can even submit one of your own using the link at the bottom if you want.

Thousands of GIFs.

Easy to find trending and new images.

Search can be glitchy.

Do you like animated GIFs? You know, those images without sound that move for a few seconds and then start all over again? If you do, you'll love Giphy.

Giphy is the Internet's search engine for GIFs. Even if you have nothing to search for, you can just look at what's trending on the front page or spend some time browsing through the categories.

The Oatmeal

Engaging quizzes and comics.

Quirky content.

Not all content is family-friendly.

Some content is repetitive.

Created by Matthew Inman a.k.a. “The Oatmeal,” his popular humor website caters to the avid comic lover and quiz taker. His wacky drawings are mainly based on relatable life situations, education, and crazy stories that would never be possible in real life.

Some of the jokes are a little harsh but all are pretty darn funny.

Fun way to pass time.

Shareable content.

Often considered click-bait.

Lots of similar listicles to sift through.

Surely you've heard of BuzzFeed by now. It's only one of the most popular sites online for everything that's viral, newsworthy and even pointless.

You can find everything from fun quizzes and listicles made of GIFs, to breaking news and long-form journalism. If you need some major distraction, BuzzFeed is the place to go.

Unique comics.

Fun comic generator.

Limited content.

If webcomics are your thing, then you have to be familiar with Cyanide and Happiness—one of the most popular and funniest webcomics out there.

There's a new webcomic every day, but you can also head on over to the website and press the question mark button over and over again to view random comics.

Keep in mind there's a lot of adult content.

"Subreddits" for nearly every topic.

Topical and trending content.

Some content not suitable for work.

Learning curve involved.

Reddit is referred to as "the front page of the internet." It's a community board split up into sections of categories or interests. Users submit links to articles, photos or videos they think are worth sharing, and anyone can upvote them or downvote them .

The most upvoted links get pushed to the top. If StumbleUpon wasn't your thing, Reddit may be a good alternative.

Easy to browse.

Comments can be rude.

Can be buggy.

9GAG is sort of like a visual version of Reddit. It's a community-driven hub for visual content where members of the community upvote and downvote posts so that the best content gets pushed to the top.

Explore the different sections on this site and prepare to have your mind blown! You can also create your own account and start engaging with the community but upvoting what you like, downvoting what you don't like, commenting on posts and even uploading your own content.

Hyperbole and a Half

Engaging appearance.

New content no longer added.

Some content is lengthy.

Hyperbole and a Half is a Blogger blog that was created by Allie Brosh, a young woman with a talent for telling her left story through detailed Microsoft Paint drawings. She says her blog is not really a webcomic, but it’s not really a blog either.

Whatever it is, it’s a wonderfully colorful and comedic site to browse through. If you love whimsical drawings of dogs, rainbows and other things, then you're bound to really fall in love with this one.

Funny and informative

New, timely content added often.

Great deal of political content.

Some content isn't safe for work or children.

According to the site's slogan, Cracked is “America’s Only Humor Site Since 1958.” Cracked is famous for its timeless list posts. Columnists and contributing writers craft witty, funny articles on topics ranging from history to TV & movies to internet tech.

It has a hilariously creative video section as well. Although it's a bit less reliant on visual content compared to some of the other sites on this list, the articles on Cracked are well worth reading and sharing again and again.

Mostly harmless fun.

Great deal of unique content.

Can be difficult to navigate.

The FAIL blog has been around for much longer than a lot of these other sites have, and thanks to its great content, it's still going strong. Part of the I Can Has Cheezburger network, Fail Blog is a site that is most known for its humorous pictures depicting disastrous and often stupid situations.

All photos have the caption “FAIL” included somewhere on the photo. Fail Blog incorporates video into their site in addition to photos.

Autocorrect Fail

Funny fails.

No longer adding new content.

Some content not family-friendly.

If you own a smartphone, you’ve probably had to deal with an extra text or two explaining an accidental word change as a result of your phone’s auto correction.

Autocorrect Fail features tons of funny texts between people who experience all the communication problems that come with auto correct on a mobile device. You might be surprised to discover what kinds of words accidentally pop up after you turn on autocorrect on your mobile device .

Awkward Family Photos

Cringe-worthy humor.

Suitable for work or family.

No way to tell when content was posted.

Clunky navigation.

Almost everyone has an old photo from back in the day that is just too embarrassing to look at now. It seems as though families all over the world are all flocking to Awkward Family Photos to submit their hilarious and retro photos there.

From terrible hairdos and outfits to costume-themed family portraits, it’s no surprise that this site is such a huge hit on the internet. Submit your own awkward family photo and see if it pops on the site eventually!

Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day

• The 20 Best Free Learning Websites for Kids in 2024
• 10 Best Free Language Learning Websites of 2024
• 6 of the Best Sites to Track Recent Celebrity News
• The Top 10 Video and Photo Sharing Websites and Apps
• 22 Best Places to Get Free Kindle Books in 2024
• The 8 Best Search Engines of 2024
• The 9 Best X (Formerly Twitter) Alternatives in 2024
• The 10 Best Bookmarking Tools for the Web
• The 6 Best Santa Claus-Themed Websites of 2024
• 5 Best Free Dating Sites of 2024
• The 6 Best Coupon Websites of 2024
• The 9 Best Free GIF Makers of 2024
• 8 Best Websites for Playing Free Online Games
• 10 Ways to Watch TV Shows Online Free in 2024
• The 10 Best Apartment Websites of 2024
• 17 Best Sites to Download Free Books in 2024

Things you buy through our links may earn Vox Media a commission

64 Things to Do When You’re Bored

Boredom can feel impossible to escape. While that was particularly true during the early months of COVID-19, when everyone was quarantining and social distancing, the feeling persists even as the world slowly reverts back to normal — or at least a new normal. While some people are fully back in the swing of their routines, many others are still remote or spending nine to five inside their bedrooms, feeling increasingly isolated and as if nothing can pull them out of their funk.

Well, don’t worry: Boredom is a state of mind, and we want to break you out of it. Below, we’ve gathered up 60 great spirit-lifting, boredom-busting ideas to try next time you’re feeling spiritless and bored. Good luck and have fun.

Entertaining things

1. Start watching a new reality series. Maybe you want to finally get into Love Island , or maybe you’ve never watched a single episode of Real Housewives ? Reality shows are designed to keep you watching, which can be a boon for a bored brain. 2. Watch a classic movie you’ve never seen. It’s time to finally check out what Casablanca is all about. 3. Read a great essay. You don’t have to look too far. 4. Search “happy birthday + [your name]” on YouTube. It doesn’t technically have to be your birthday to enjoy watching a bunch of strangers sing to you. 5. Make a playlist of your favorite songs from high school. I bet you haven’t heard Eve 6’s “Inside Out” in a long time, have you? What about Jimmie’s Chicken Shack “Do Right”? 6. Watch as many episodes as you want of your favorite show. Listen, who cares? Just keep watching it until it stops being fun. 7. Start a book you’ve been meaning to read. It’s time to finally check out what (at least the beginning of) Swann’s Way is all about. 8. Play a video game. If you’re without a video game system, there are tons of free options online . 9. Read some humor writing. Delight your mind with the writings of Jack Handey or Samantha Irby . 10. Put together a puzzle. If you enjoy that sort of thing . 11. Make a music-video playlist to play on your TV. This is almost like being at a bar, sort of.

Relaxing Things

12. Light some candles. Whether you’re working from the office or in your room, does it get more autumnal than a homesick candle? 13. Give yourself a manicure and pedicure. An at-home salon-worthy manicure is possible , trust us. 14. Apply a soothing face mask. Your skin deserves it. 15. Do a guided meditation. Maybe this one by Puff Daddy ? 16. Have a yoga break. If you don’t want to head to a studio, there are a bunch of great free yoga classes you can take online. It’ll feel good whether it’s a 15-minute or hour-long session. 17. Take a bath. Do you have a nice bathtub? Please appreciate your great fortune, get in it, and take a bath . 18. Go for a walk. It’s still allowed , and it can do wonders for your mind-set. 19. Practice deep breathing. I know it might sound as though it won’t do much, but slowing down and paying attention to your breath can really change how you feel both mentally and physically. 20. Lie down, close your eyes, and listen to a podcast. Even if you don’t like podcasts, I bet this sounds pretty relaxing. Find an episode that sounds interesting, lie down, and listen. 21. Cuddle with your pet. It’s good for both you and your pet ! 22. Go to an online art exhibit. If you want to skip the IRL crowds, the National Museum of Women in the Arts has a lot of great options!

Delicious Things

23. Make a fancy cocktail or mocktail. Practice your mixology skills and make yourself a beautiful drink. 24. Try a meal-kit subscription service. Skip the grocery shopping and soothe your decision fatigue with a box of preportioned ingredients and hard-to-mess-up instructions. 25. Bake bread. Just give in to it : Sourdough starter is here to stay. 26. Meal prep for the week. It can be very satisfying! (Although you should consider whether getting all of your meal prep done now will take away future boredom-busting cooking opportunities.) 27. Bake cookies. Mmm. Wouldn’t cookies be good right now? 28. Try to re-create your favorite restaurant meal. You don’t need to be a chef — all you need to be is a person with the appropriate ingredients and a lot of derring-do. 29. Make a dip. Oh, gosh. What is your favorite dip? Onion dip? Guacamole? Artichoke? The nice thing about making a dip for yourself is you end up with a lot of dip. All for you! 30. Plan your breakfast for tomorrow. Maybe some overnight oats ? 31. Try a TikTok cooking hack. Salmon rice, feta pasta , healthy Coke , whatever you like. Just not NyQuil chicken , please. 32. Soak some dry beans. Then, later, you can have some beans . 33. Make applesauce. It’s seriously so easy .

Creative Things

34. Paint a portrait of your cat. Or your dog or your rabbit or your bookshelf! Then you get a bonus activity: choosing where to display it. 35. Write a song. Do you have a musical instrument around? It might be time to dust it off and write a song about whatever it is you’re feeling right now. 36. Try The Artist’s Way . It’s never too late to start journaling, and this method, which involves writing a few stream-of-consciousness “morning pages” every day, is designed to open up your creative flow. As a bonus, Bella Hadid does it. 37. Teach your dog a new trick. Teach your dog to spin or give her paw or “play dead.” It’s a fun and rewarding activity for both of you. 38. Learn to do a split . Working on your flexibility a few minutes a day can lead to fewer injuries and better posture. Plus it’s a neat party trick. 39. Write a poem. No one ever has to read it. 40. Learn how to juggle. Can you imagine how impressed your friends will be once you reveal you’ve taught yourself how to juggle ? 41. Write letters. As a kid, there was absolutely nothing more exciting than getting a letter in the mail from a pen pal. Why do we let time change us? Why do we let age rob us of our youthful sense of wonder? Send a letter to a friend. Maybe they’ll write back! 42. Start a photo-and-memories album. If you’re like me, you keep a lot of little pieces of trash around for memories. Movie stubs, playbills, particularly notable receipts. Why not gather all this garbage into a photo album? You can even include photos. 43. Turn a T-shirt into a sleeveless shirt. Do you have a T-shirt you like but never wear, maybe because it doesn’t look good or isn’t the right size? Maybe it will be a little better if you cut off the sleeves. 44. Read a play, or write one. It’s like watching a movie except it’s reading (or writing). 45. Sew a mask for a friend. An act of love and of creativity. 46. Design your future tattoo. Are you thinking about getting a tattoo? Why not one you’ve designed? Draw some stuff, play around, imagine where it could be inked permanently into your flesh. 47. Learn how to read tarot cards. Here’s an easy beginner’s guide . 48. Learn about bog bodies. You’re going to be surprised . 49. Make a COVID time capsule. Maybe someday you’ll want to remember this ?

Productive Things

50. Deep clean your bathroom. When you’re bored, it can be helpful to just discard the idea you’re going to find something “fun” to do and get down to some work that actually needs doing. I’m sure your bathroom needs a good scrubbing. Why not do it now? 51. Organize your closet. Having an organized space helps you know what you have, and it helps you find things, and it helps you feel relaxed. Go ahead and organize that closet. 52. Clean out your fridge. Something smells in there. 53. Start learning a new language. Does Duolingo even work? I don’t know, but you can try. 54. Wash the windows. They’re looking pretty grimy. Let the sunshine in! 55. Hand-wash your clothes . A nice thing to check off the to-do list. 56. Do an online workout. It’s so nice to have done a workout. Unfortunately, the only way to have done a workout is to do a workout. So go on and get that serotonin . 57. Clean your makeup brushes. Trust us, they’re disgusting . 58. Organize all those papers. You know you have a big stack of papers. Or maybe you have a few little stacks of papers. What are all of those papers? Bills? Or something else? Time to organize them. 59. Clean your window-unit air conditioner. Ugh, God, this is going to be so annoying, but you do have to do it, so. Maybe just do it now. 60. Pick up crochet . It’s a hobby for all seasons. Don’t you want to make your own crop tops for spring and summer and your own blankets for fall and winter? 61. Clean out your computer’s hard drive. There are no doubt tons of files clogging up your computer that you downloaded a long time ago and have absolutely no use for. Delete them and free up some space for more stuff you don’t need later. 62. Wash the floors. Oh, gosh, wouldn’t it be nice to have clean floors? 63. Rotate your mattress. I personally have never done this. But maybe we both should ? 64. Organize your pantry. Ah, can you imagine it? An organized pantry where you can see everything you have and grab whatever you need. Does it seem like an impossible dream? It’s not. Here’s some inspiration .

• boredom busters

The Cut Shop

Most viewed stories.

• Is Kate Middleton’s Family Really in Debt?
• The Case for Marrying an Older Man  
• The Moms Who Smoke in Secret
• What We Know About the Mommy Vlogger Accused of Child Abuse
• This Mercury Retrograde in Aries Will Be Peak Chaos
• The Woman Who Flies to Another City for Rebound Sex

Editor’s Picks

Most Popular

• What Cut Editors Are Buying From Sephora’s Annual Sale

What is your email?

This email will be used to sign into all New York sites. By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy and to receive email correspondence from us.

Sign In To Continue Reading

Create your free account.

Password must be at least 8 characters and contain:

• Lower case letters (a-z)
• Upper case letters (A-Z)
• Numbers (0-9)
• Special Characters (!@#$%^&*)

As part of your account, you’ll receive occasional updates and offers from New York , which you can opt out of anytime.

10 Great Places to Find Articles Worth Reading on the Web

The Internet is arguably the best news morgue on the planet right now. And apart from that great collection of old articles, thousands of new ones are added every day.

The internet unquestionably has masses of content that is enjoyable to read. But there is also a fair amount of clickbait rubbish. How do you find interesting articles to read while avoiding all the low-effort ones?

Here are some of the best article reading sites to find thoughtful and engaging content.

1. Longform

Longform is an article curation service. It recommends both new and classic non-fiction articles from a variety of different online sources.

It encourages submissions from its engaged community of readers, thus giving rise to a diverse and delightful selection of interesting articles to read on any given day. Furthermore, it also accepts readers' own work, though the work has to pass through a strict editorial filter before it is recommended on the site.

The core focus of the Longform site is non-fiction, though a spinoff fiction service launched in 2012 has become perennially popular.

Although Longform retired its article recommendation service in September 2022, you can still check out the “Best Of” annual archive for a rich trove of suggestions from bygone years, or browse by sections to discover topics that interest you. The sections on this article reading site include Arts, Business, Crime, History, Politics, Science, Sports, Tech, and World.

2. Longreads

Another one of the most popular article reading sites is Longreads, a direct competitor of Longform. The different categories of articles you can dig into include food, crime, sports, current events, arts and culture, and more. On Longreads, a section called Shortreads if you prefer having short articles to read.

The site also produces its own stories (often revolving around gun violence, genocide, and environmental destruction), with the work funded by its membership pass. The membership costs $5/month and $50/year.

And in case you still doubt the quality of the work on Longreads, be aware that it has been nominated for four National Magazine Awards and has been highlighted as a quality source by both the Online News Association and the Peabody Awards.

3. The Browser

If you’re drowning from the mindless content on social media, finding interesting articles to read is one of the best things to do when you’re bored online . The Browser sifts through hundreds of articles every day to bring you the finest content from across the web in the form of a newsletter. All the content is handpicked.

The free newsletter itself offers five interesting articles to read per day, and subscribers will also get access to a daily podcast, a daily video, a daily quote, and more.

For this site, subscription plans start at $5/month and $48/year. It offers a free preview, so you can try out their service before you commit. The higher tier plans offer you a special letter from the editor every week, a unique merchandise item every year, and a spot on their London Amble Tour.

4. r/InDepthStories

Reddit has no shortage of enjoyable content posted across its thousands of Subreddits. But as any Reddit user will know, there is also an enormous number of poor submissions that you should not waste your time with. These tips to find your next favorite Subreddit will help you discover content you’ll love the most.

Now, to use Reddit as a good article reading site, you need to know where to look. If you are specifically keen on long-form journalism, you should subscribe to r/InDepthStories for interesting articles to read. It started life as a forum for investigative journalism, but has since grown to become a repo of all forms of high-quality long-form content.

Standards are kept high by the Subreddits mods, who rule with an iron fist. Anything that is not considered long-form will be removed, and they also do not allow political long-form articles. The ban on political content might seem Draconian, but it is done to keep the community civilized and make sure the comments on each article remain focused and thoughtful.

Pocket is best known as a read-it-later bookmarking service. By using browser extensions or mobile apps, you can save stories that pique your curiosity. Later, when you have the time, you can revisit these interesting articles to read and give them your full attention.

However, Pocket also offers a list of curated stories for you. Stories are partially sourced by the company's own editorial team, but are also pulled from the content that its users are saving most frequently on a given day.

The main section focuses on “essential reads”. However, there are also subcategories for topics such as business, career, education, self-improvement, tech, personal finance, science, food, health and fitness, entertainment, and more.

6. CoolTools: The Best Magazine Articles Ever

If you want to delve into some of the most iconic and memorable magazine articles of all time, check out The Best Magazine Articles Ever subsection of CoolTools. This article reading site is a great place to start your journey.

The list is based on suggestions by readers and is not vetted, but there is still a tremendous amount of fantastic and interesting articles for you to read and enjoy.

The best part is The Top 25 Articles list. It rounds up some of the best articles going back as far as the 1960s. Some of the pieces that have made the cut include 1996's Mother Earth, Mother Board: Wiring the Planet by Neal Stephenson in Wired, and 1971's Secrets of the Little Blue Box by Ron Rosenbaum in Esquire.

You can also use the filters to browse by decade. The 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, 00s, and 2010s are all available.

Medium is a social journalism platform that launched back in 2012. As one of the most popular article reading sites on the internet, it offers content from a mix of professional journalists and writers, as well as amateur writers who want to discuss a topic in which they are an expert.

Users can subscribe to writers or topics that they are interested in to curate their own feed of relevant content, but Medium also offers browsable sections in case you want to digest something that is outside of your usual wheelhouse when you’re looking for interesting articles to read.

Although you can read some content for free, Medium is designed as a paid platform. It costs $5/month or $50/year, and you get unlimited access to every story with no ads or additional paywalls. Check out our article if you want to get started on Medium today .

Aeon is digital magazine that covers philosophy, science, psychology, society, and culture. The majority of Aeon's articles today are long essays. However, you can still find short articles to read in its archive as the magazine used to publish a category of content called Ideas.

Aeon is a registered charity and all the articles are free for everyone to read. There are no ads, and the organization promises that its content will never have a paywall. Therefore, you don't have to worry about subscriptions. The site only asks you to consider donating if you enjoy the published work and would like to help support them.

9. Nautilus

Nautilus is a great site to get your daily dose of science . You'll find articles on anthropology, neuroscience, the environment, sociology, astronomy, and many more.

Don't worry about being bombarded with jargon or dry facts, though. The content is written in a vivid style, along with gorgeous illustrations, so it feels as though you're being drawn into story after story on the site.

As a free user, you can only read a limited number of articles. The digital membership costs $9.99/month or $59/year. If you like reading and collecting physical copies, you can opt to subscribe to the digital and print membership, which costs $89/year.

10. MakeUseOf

Come on; you've got to let us have this shameless plug! If you want to read the best how-to articles, reviews, listicles, buying guides, and more, you're already in the right place. We’re the trusted article reading site to cover all your tech needs.

Make sure you also check out MakeUseOf’s YouTube channel for the latest insight into the world's newest gadgets. We also release an episode every week on The Really Useful Podcast to discuss tech news, as well as other tips and tricks!

Find the Best Article Reading Sites to Read More of What Matters

If you only read articles from the sites we've recommended and never visit another site again, you can be sure that you're going to become more educated, understand the world more fully, and avoid wasting your time on content that does not deserve your attention.

With new stories suggested almost every day, you’ll never run out of interesting articles to read. So, what are you waiting for? Start reading more today.

clock This article was published more than  1 year ago

Boredom is a warning sign. Here’s what it’s telling you.

It’s our brain’s way of alerting us that things aren’t going well and to do something more meaningful.

In one famous experiment , people were asked to sit quietly for 15 minutes in a room with nothing but their own thoughts. They also had the option to hit a button and give themselves an electric shock.

Getting physically shocked is unpleasant, but many people preferred it to the emotional discomfort of boredom. Out of 42 participants, nearly half opted to press the button at least once, even though they had experienced the shock earlier in the study and reported they would pay money to avoid experiencing it again. (One male outlier opted to shock himself 190 times.)

Boredom is a universally dreaded feeling. Being bored means wanting to be engaged when you can’t. It’s our brain telling us to take action, much like pain is an important signal for danger or harm.

Boredom is also how our brains alert us that things aren’t going well. Scientists who study the emotion note that every episode of boredom creates an opportunity for making a positive change instead of reactively looking for the fastest, easiest escape. We just need to pay attention.

“Boredom is sort of an emotional dashboard light that goes off saying, like, ‘Hey, you’re not on track,’ ” said Erin Westgate , a social psychologist at the University of Florida who studies boredom and co-authored the shock experiment. “It is this signal that whatever it is we’re doing either isn’t meaningful to us, or we’re not able to successfully engage with this.”

Boredom is a warning sign, she says, and it’s “really necessary.”

Can boredom make you mean?

In a 2021 study , Westgate and her colleagues found boredom led participants toward more sadistic behaviors. In one experiment, bored participants watching a mundane 20-minute video were even more likely to do something presumably none of them had considered doing before: shred maggots named Toto, Tifi and Kiki in a coffee grinder. (The researchers named the maggots to humanize them.)

Among 67 participants who watched the boring video, 12 of them (18 percent) dropped a maggot into the coffee grinder. By comparison, in another group watching an interesting documentary, just one out of 62 study subjects tried to shred a maggot.

(It’s worth noting that the maggot-mangling machine was fake. No maggots were actually harmed during the experiments.)

Other experiments have shown a link between boredom and different kinds of bad behavior, from online trolling to bullying in the classroom to verbal and physical abuse by members of the military toward one another.

The good news is that boredom doesn’t always make us meaner — it just calls us to take action, good or bad. When better alternatives are available, boredom can also make us do good deeds.

In another set of experiments involving nearly 2,000 people, Westgate and her team asked study subjects to watch either a five-minute video of a rock or a more interesting video. Everyone in the study had the option to reduce the pay of the other study participants, with no benefit to themselves. In their boredom, the rock watchers were far more likely to cut pay than those who watched a more interesting video.

But when the bored participants had two options — to either cut a stranger’s pay or increase it, the overwhelming majority of people decided to give money, and fewer people took it away.

Boredom appears to motivate the search for novelty, not evil.

In short, the quality of the options matter: If you have a distraction such as a book you’ve been wanting to read or a hobby you’ve always wanted to try, you might be more inclined to turn to those when bored instead of shocking yourself and eviscerating larvae.

Boredom in the brain

Boredom is a different experience from the idleness of downtime or relaxation. Being bored means wanting to be engaged when you can’t, which is an uncomfortable feeling.

James Danckert , a cognitive neuroscientist at the University of Waterloo, and his colleagues sat 10 adults in an fMRI brain scanner and measured their brain activity as they watched either a clip from the nature documentary Planet Earth, a video of two men hanging laundry or a static image.

Sitting quietly inside the fMRI machine or watching the boring laundry video both activated the brain’s default mode network, a constellation of brain regions that are active during internal thought, like when our minds are wandering. At the same time, the boring video shut down the anterior insular cortex, a brain region believed to signal something important is happening in the outside world.

What does all this mean? Through an fMRI scan, the bored brain looks like an unengaged, unhappy brain.

“It feels bad to be bored,” said Danckert, co-author of “ Out of My Skull: The Psychology of Boredom .”

How to be better at boredom

We are most likely to be bored at work or in school — situations where we are afforded less autonomy and fewer options to do something about it. In a sample of nearly 4,000 American adults, 63 percent reported experiencing boredom at least once over the course of 10 days.

The problem with boredom is that while it tells us something is wrong, it does not tell us what to do about it. Finding healthy ways through boredom is up to us.

When the unsettling feeling of boredom hits us, it’s easy to be reactive and reflexively reach for the closest thing at hand: our smartphones.

But such a reaction can set off a “vicious cycle,” Danckert told me. Time on your phone is not particularly meaningful, which means that you’ll likely get bored again.

Instead of being reactive to boredom, try to be more mindful about the signal it is sending you. Take the opportunity boredom is giving you to reset, reflect on or reframe your priorities.

What other options are more meaningful? What are your goals, big and small? And why does what you’re doing matter even if it does not appear that way?

And take heart that boredom, and our search to find relief, is essential to our human experience.

“I think boredom gets a bad rap that’s not deserved,” Westgate said. Boredom is “linked to a lot of what most of us want out of life, like living a rich, fulfilling, interesting, meaningful life. Boredom is just one sort of helpful signal — maybe unwanted signal — that helps us get there.”

Do you have a question about human behavior or neuroscience? Email Richard at [email protected] and he may answer it in a future column.

Read more from Well+Being

Well+Being shares news and advice for living well every day. Sign up for our newsletter to get tips directly in your inbox.

Are you taking your meds wrong ? Many patients make these common mistakes.

Centenarians give their advice about everything.

The wall sit is a simple exercise that can lower your blood pressure.

Tart cherries — more specifically, tart cherry juice — may help with inflammation and pain.

Do you self-sabotage ? Here’s how to stop.

• How flotation therapy may help your mental health April 5, 2024 How flotation therapy may help your mental health April 5, 2024
• Fear of missing out? Find the joy in saying ‘no.’ March 30, 2024 Fear of missing out? Find the joy in saying ‘no.’ March 30, 2024
• What does ketamine feel like? I kept a diary of my six treatments. March 23, 2024 What does ketamine feel like? I kept a diary of my six treatments. March 23, 2024

Here's What Everyone Is Reading Right Now

You might find yourself with a lot more time on your hands at this very moment. I don't know about you, but I'm absolutely terrified to get that weekly report my iPhone gives me about my screen time usage . I feel like it's going to be up 200%. And you're probably sick of reading so much news and scrolling through Instagram. It's good for your mental health to take a break from the phone, so to keep occupied, why not pick up a book or download one on your e-reader?

We polled our Instagram community to see what they're reading right now. It's a long list, and there are books for every mood or preference on here. We've also added their book descriptions so you can get a sneak peek of what's to come.

Happy reading!

"After the death of her beloved grandmother, a Cuban-American woman travels to Havana, where she discovers the roots of her identity—and unearths a family secret hidden since the revolution."

" Homegoing follows the parallel paths of these sisters and their descendants through eight generations: from the Gold Coast to the plantations of Mississippi, from the American Civil War to Jazz Age Harlem. Yaa Gyasi's extraordinary novel illuminates slavery's troubled legacy both for those who were taken and those who stayed—and shows how the memory of captivity has been inscribed on the soul of our nation."

"An addictively suspenseful and tautly written thriller, The Good Girl is a propulsive debut that reveals how even in the perfect family, nothing is as it seems."

" Writers & Lovers follows Casey―a smart and achingly vulnerable protagonist―in the last days of a long youth, a time when every element of her life comes to a crisis. Written with King's trademark humor, heart, and intelligence, Writers & Lovers is a transfixing novel that explores the terrifying and exhilarating leap between the end of one phase of life and the beginning of another."

"Bernardine Evaristo is the winner of the 2019 Booker Prize and the first black woman to receive this highest literary honor in the English language. Girl, Woman, Other is a magnificent portrayal of the intersections of identity and a moving and hopeful story of an interconnected group of Black British women that paints a vivid portrait of the state of contemporary Britain and looks back to the legacy of Britain's colonial history in Africa and the Caribbean."

"This comprehensive anthology offers renowned critic Harold Bloom's choice of the best of six centuries of great British and American poetry, selected in accordance with his three absolute criteria: aesthetic splendor, intellectual power, and wisdom. In Bloom's introductory essay 'The Art of Reading Poetry,' he presents his critical reflections of more than half a century devoted to reading, teaching, and writing about great verse, the literary achievement he loves most. Throughout this volume, Bloom includes extensive introductions to each poet and to many of the individual poems. More than any other anthology, this book provides readers who desire the pleasures of sublime art with nearly everything they need in a single volume."

" Dark Matter is a brilliantly plotted tale that is at once sweeping and intimate, mind-bendingly strange and profoundly human—a relentlessly surprising science-fiction thriller about choices, paths not taken, and how far we'll go to claim the lives we dream of."

"With courage, grace, and powerful insight, bestselling author Kristin Hannah captures the epic panorama of World War II and illuminates an intimate part of history seldom seen: the women's war. The Nightingale tells the stories of two sisters, separated by years and experience, by ideals, passion and circumstance, each embarking on her own dangerous path toward survival, love, and freedom in German-occupied, war-torn France―a heartbreakingly beautiful novel that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit and the durability of women. It is a novel for everyone, a novel for a lifetime."

" The Silent Patient is a shocking psychological thriller of a woman’s act of violence against her husband―and of the therapist obsessed with uncovering her motive."

"In an enthralling new historical novel from national bestselling author Kate Quinn, two women―a female spy recruited to the real-life Alice Network in France during World War I and an unconventional American socialite searching for her cousin in 1947―are brought together in a mesmerizing story of courage and redemption."

"What if America had a royal family? If you can't get enough of Harry and Meghan or Kate and William, meet American princesses Beatrice and Samantha. Crazy Rich Asians meets The Crown . Perfect for fans of Red, White, and Royal Blue and The Royal We !"

" Normal People is the story of mutual fascination, friendship and love. It takes us from that first conversation to the years beyond, in the company of two people who try to stay apart but find that they can't."

"Mesmerizing from the first page to the last, Kristin Hannah's Winter Garden is one woman's sweeping, heartbreaking story of love, loss, and redemption. At once an epic love story set in World War II Russia and an intimate portrait of contemporary mothers and daughters poised at the crossroads of their lives, it explores the heartbreak of war, the cost of survival and the ultimate triumph of the human spirit. It is a novel that will haunt the reader long after the last page is turned."

"From the New York Times bestselling author of Commonwealth and State of Wonder , comes Ann Patchett's most powerful novel to date: a richly moving story that explores the indelible bond between two siblings, the house of their childhood, and a past that will not let them go. The Dutch House is the story of a paradise lost, a tour de force that digs deeply into questions of inheritance, love and forgiveness, of how we want to see ourselves and of who we really are."

"Jonas Jonasson tackles issues ranging from the pervasiveness of racism to the dangers of absolute power in a charming and hilarious story. In the inimitable voice that has earned him legions of fans the world over, he gives us another rollicking tale of how even the smallest of decisions can ripple out into the world."

"A striking and surprising debut novel from an exhilarating new voice, Such a Fun Age is a page-turning and big-hearted story about race and privilege, set around a young black babysitter, her well-intentioned employer, and a surprising connection that threatens to undo them both."

"From the bestselling author of Dark Matter and the Wayward Pines trilogy comes a relentless thriller about time, identity, and memory—his most mind-boggling, irresistible work to date, and the inspiration for Shondaland’s upcoming Netflix film."

"It is 1939. Nazi Germany. The country is holding its breath. Death has never been busier, and will become busier still. "Liesel Meminger is a foster girl living outside of Munich, who scratches out a meager existence for herself by stealing when she encounters something she can't resist—books. With the help of her accordion-playing foster father, she learns to read and shares her stolen books with her neighbors during bombing raids as well as with the Jewish man hidden in her basement. "In superbly crafted writing that burns with intensity, award-winning author Markus Zusak, author of I Am the Messenger , has given us one of the most enduring stories of our time."

"Theo Decker, a 13-year-old New Yorker, miraculously survives an accident that kills his mother. Abandoned by his father, Theo is taken in by the family of a wealthy friend. Bewildered by his strange new home on Park Avenue, disturbed by schoolmates who don't know how to talk to him, and tormented above all by a longing for his mother, he clings to the one thing that reminds him of her: a small, mysteriously captivating painting that ultimately draws Theo into a wealthy and insular art community. "As an adult, Theo moves silkily between the drawing rooms of the rich and the dusty labyrinth of an antiques store where he works. He is alienated and in love—and at the center of a narrowing, ever more dangerous circle."

"The unforgettable, heartbreaking story of the unlikely friendship between a wealthy boy and the son of his father's servant, caught in the tragic sweep of history, The Kite Runner transports readers to Afghanistan at a tense and crucial moment of change and destruction. A powerful story of friendship, it is also about the power of reading, the price of betrayal, and the possibility of redemption; and an exploration of the power of fathers over sons—their love, their sacrifices, their lies."

"A beautiful and provocative love story between two unlikely people and the hard-won relationship that elevates them above the Midwestern meth lab backdrop of their lives."

" Where the Crawdads Sing is at once an exquisite ode to the natural world, a heartbreaking coming-of-age story, and a surprising tale of possible murder. Owens reminds us that we are forever shaped by the children we once were, and that we are all subject to the beautiful and violent secrets that nature keeps."

"An audacious, darkly glittering novel set in the eerie days of civilization's collapse, Station Eleven tells the spellbinding story of a Hollywood star, his would-be savior, and a nomadic group of actors roaming the scattered outposts of the Great Lakes region, risking everything for art and humanity."

"Based on one of America's most notorious real-life scandals—in which Georgia Tann, director of a Memphis-based adoption organization, kidnapped and sold poor children to wealthy families all over the country—Lisa Wingate's riveting, wrenching, and ultimately uplifting tale reminds us how, even though the paths we take can lead to many places, the heart never forgets where we belong."

" Beartown explores the hopes that bring a small community together, the secrets that tear it apart, and the courage it takes for an individual to go against the grain. In this story of a small forest town, Fredrik Backman has found the entire world."

"From Jennifer Weiner, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Who Do You Love and In Her Shoes comes a smart, thoughtful, and timely exploration of two sisters' lives from the 1950s to the present as they struggle to find their places—and be true to themselves—in a rapidly evolving world."

"Set on the desert planet Arrakis, Dune is the story of the boy Paul Atreides, heir to a noble family tasked with ruling an inhospitable world where the only thing of value is the 'spice' melange, a drug capable of extending life and enhancing consciousness. Coveted across the known universe, melange is a prize worth killing for… "When House Atreides is betrayed, the destruction of Paul's family will set the boy on a journey toward a destiny greater than he could ever have imagined. And as he evolves into the mysterious man known as Muad'Dib, he will bring to fruition humankind's most ancient and unattainable dream."

" The Tea Rose is a towering old-fashioned story, imbued with a modern sensibility, of a family's destruction, of murder and revenge, of love lost and won again, and of one determined woman's quest to survive and triumph."

" On Beauty is the story of an interracial family living in the university town of Wellington, Massachusetts, whose misadventures in the culture wars—on both sides of the Atlantic—serve to skewer everything from family life to political correctness to the combustive collision between the personal and the political. Full of dead-on wit and relentlessly funny, this tour de force confirms Zadie Smith's reputation as a major literary talent."

"From the New York Times bestselling author of Rules of Civility —a transporting novel about a man who is ordered to spend the rest of his life inside a luxury hotel.

"As with her masterful debut, Here Comes the Sun , Nicole Dennis-Benn once again charts the geography of a hidden world―that of a paradise lost, swirling with the echoes of lilting patois, in which one woman fights to discover her sense of self in a world that tries to define her. Passionate, moving, and fiercely urgent, Patsy is a prismatic depiction of immigration and womanhood, and the lasting threads of love stretching across years and oceans."

"Set in Los Angeles in the early 1980s, Less than Zero has become a timeless classic. This coolly mesmerizing novel is a raw, powerful portrait of a lost generation who have experienced sex, drugs, and disaffection at too early an age. They live in a world shaped by casual nihilism, passivity, and too much money in a place devoid of feeling or hope."

"With unforgettably vivid characters, mesmerizing language, and page-turning suspense, Circe is a triumph of storytelling, an intoxicating epic of family rivalry, palace intrigue, love and loss, as well as a celebration of indomitable female strength in a man's world."

"Korede's sister Ayoola is many things: the favorite child, the beautiful one, possibly sociopathic. And now Ayoola's third boyfriend in a row is dead, stabbed through the heart with Ayoola's knife. Korede's practicality is the sisters’ saving grace. She knows the best solutions for cleaning blood (bleach, bleach, and more bleach), the best way to move a body (wrap it in sheets like a mummy), and she keeps Ayoola from posting pictures to Instagram when she should be mourning her 'missing' boyfriend. Not that she gets any credit. "Korede has long been in love with a kind, handsome doctor at the hospital where she works. She dreams of the day when he will realize that she's exactly what he needs. But when he asks Korede for Ayoola's phone number, she must reckon with what her sister has become and how far she’s willing to go to protect her."

"In The Signature of All Things, Elizabeth Gilbert returns to fiction, inserting her inimitable voice into an enthralling story of love, adventure and discovery. Spanning much of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the novel follows the fortunes of the extraordinary Whittaker family as led by the enterprising Henry Whittaker—a poor-born Englishman who makes a great fortune in the South American quinine trade, eventually becoming the richest man in Philadelphia. Born in 1800, Henry's brilliant daughter, Alma (who inherits both her father's money and his mind), ultimately becomes a botanist of considerable gifts herself. As Alma's research takes her deeper into the mysteries of evolution, she falls in love with a man named Ambrose Pike who makes incomparable paintings of orchids and who draws her in the exact opposite direction—into the realm of the spiritual, the divine, and the magical. Alma is a clear-minded scientist; Ambrose a utopian artist—but what unites this unlikely couple is a desperate need to understand the workings of this world and the mechanisms behind all life."

"Ellie Mack was the perfect daughter. She was fifteen, the youngest of three. She was beloved by her parents, friends, and teachers. She and her boyfriend made a teenaged golden couple. She was days away from an idyllic post-exams summer vacation, with her whole life ahead of her. "And then she was gone. "Now, her mother Laurel Mack is trying to put her life back together. It's been ten years since her daughter disappeared, seven years since her marriage ended, and only months since the last clue in Ellie's case was unearthed. So when she meets an unexpectedly charming man in a café, no one is more surprised than Laurel at how quickly their flirtation develops into something deeper. Before she knows it, she's meeting Floyd's daughters—and his youngest, Poppy, takes Laurel's breath away. "Because looking at Poppy is like looking at Ellie. And now, the unanswered questions she's tried so hard to put to rest begin to haunt Laurel anew. Where did Ellie go? Did she really run away from home, as the police have long suspected, or was there a more sinister reason for her disappearance? Who is Floyd, really? And why does his daughter remind Laurel so viscerally of her own missing girl?"

"In Women Who Run with the Wolves , Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estés unfolds rich intercultural myths, fairy tales, folk tales, and stories, many from her own traditions, in order to help women reconnect with the fierce, healthy, visionary attributes of this instinctual nature. Through the stories and commentaries in this remarkable book, we retrieve, examine, love, and understand the Wild Woman, and hold her against our deep psyches as one who is both magic and medicine."

"In her memoir, a work of deep reflection and mesmerizing storytelling, Michelle Obama invites listeners into her world, chronicling the experiences that have shaped her—from her childhood on the South Side of Chicago to her years as an executive balancing the demands of motherhood and work to her time spent at the world's most famous address. With unerring honesty and lively wit, she describes her triumphs and her disappointments, both public and private, telling her full story as she has lived it—in her own words and on her own terms. Warm, wise, and revelatory, Becoming is the deeply personal reckoning of a woman of soul and substance who has steadily defied expectations—and whose story inspires us to do the same."

"In these pages, New York Times bestselling author Shauna Niequist invites you to consider the landscape of your own life, and what it might look like to leave behind the pressure to be perfect and begin the life-changing practice of simply being present, in the middle of the mess and the ordinariness of life."

"After decades of research, world-renowned Stanford University psychologist Carol S. Dweck, Ph.D., discovered a simple but groundbreaking idea: the power of mindset. In this brilliant book, she shows how success in school, work, sports, the arts, and almost every area of human endeavor can be dramatically influenced by how we think about our talents and abilities. People with a fixed mindset —those who believe that abilities are fixed—are less likely to flourish than those with a  growth mindset —those who believe that abilities can be developed. Mindset reveals how great parents, teachers, managers, and athletes can put this idea to use to foster outstanding accomplishment."

"Jessica reveals for the first time her inner monologue and most intimate struggles. Guided by the journals she's kept since age fifteen, and brimming with her unique humor and down-to-earth humanity, Open Book is as inspiring as it is entertaining."

"By way of events as disparate as the American Revolution and the world wars of the 20th century, Peter Frankopan realigns the world, orienting us eastward and illuminating how even the rise of the West 500 years ago resulted from its efforts to gain access to and control of these Eurasian trading networks. In an increasingly globalized planet, where current events in Asia and the Middle East dominate the world's attention, this magnificent work of history is very much a work of our times."

"Your weekly horoscope is merely one crumb of astrology's cake. In her first book You Were Born For This, Chani shows how your birth chart—a snapshot of the sky at the moment you took your first breath—reveals your unique talents, challenges, and opportunities. Fortified with this knowledge, you can live out the life you were born to. Marrying the historic traditions of astrology with a modern approach, You Were Born for This explains the key components of your birth chart in an easy to use, choose your own adventure style. With journal prompts, reflection questions, and affirmations personal to your astrological makeup, this book guides you along the path your chart has laid out for you."

"An unforgettable memoir about a young girl who, kept out of school, leaves her survivalist family and goes on to earn a PhD from Cambridge University "Born to survivalists in the mountains of Idaho, Tara Westover was 17 the first time she set foot in a classroom. Her family was so isolated from mainstream society that there was no one to ensure the children received an education, and no one to intervene when one of Tara's older brothers became violent. When another brother got himself into college, Tara decided to try a new kind of life. Her quest for knowledge transformed her, taking her over oceans and across continents, to Harvard and to Cambridge University. Only then would she wonder if she'd traveled too far, if there was still a way home."

"In Text Me When You Get Home , journalist Kayleen Schaefer interviews more than one hundred women about their BFFs, soulmates, girl gangs, and queens while tracing this cultural shift through the lens of pop culture. Our love for each other is reflected in Abbi and Ilana, Issa and Molly, #squadgoals, the acclaim of Girls Trip and Big Little Lies , and Galentine's Day. "Schaefer also includes her own history of grappling with a world that told her to rely on men before she realized that her true source of support came from a strong tribe of women. Her personal narrative and celebration of her own relationships weaves throughout the evolution of female friendship on-screen, a serious look at how women have come to value one another and our relationships."

"From a New York Times best-selling author, psychotherapist, and national advice columnist, a hilarious, thought-provoking, and surprising new book that takes us behind the scenes of a therapist's world—where her patients are looking for answers (and so is she)."

" This Is the Story of a Happy Marriage takes us into the very real world of Ann Patchett's life. Stretching from her childhood to the present day, from a disastrous early marriage to a later happy one, it covers a multitude of topics, including relationships with family and friends, and charts the hard work and joy of writing, and the unexpected thrill of opening a bookstore."

"The most popular, provocative, and unforgettable essays from the past 15 years of the New York Times 'Modern Love' column—including stories from the upcoming anthology series starring Tina Fey, Andy Garcia, Anne Hathaway, Catherine Keener, Dev Patel, and John Slattery."

" Know My Name will forever transform the way we think about sexual assault, challenging our beliefs about what is acceptable and speaking truth to the tumultuous reality of healing. It also introduces readers to an extraordinary writer, one whose words have already changed our world. Entwining pain, resilience, and humor, this memoir will stand as a modern classic."

"Amoral, cunning, ruthless, and instructive, this multi-million-copy New York Times bestseller is the definitive manual for anyone interested in gaining, observing, or defending against ultimate control—from the author of The Laws of Human Nature. "

"In this instant New York Times bestselling account of violence and espionage, Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter Ronan Farrow exposes serial abusers and a cabal of powerful interests hell-bent on covering up the truth, at any cost."

"No matter your goals, Atomic Habits offers a proven framework for improving—every day. James Clear, one of the world's leading experts on habit formation, reveals practical strategies that will teach you exactly how to form good habits, break bad ones, and master the tiny behaviors that lead to remarkable results."

"You may 'know' Jenny Slate from her new Netflix special, Stage Fright , or as the creator of Marcel the Shell, or as the star of Obvious Child . But you don't really know Jenny Slate until you get bonked on the head by her absolutely singular writing style. To see the world through Jenny's eyes is to see it as though for the first time, shimmering with strangeness and possibility. As she will remind you, we live on an ancient ball that rotates around a bigger ball made up of lights and gasses that are science gasses, not farts (don't be immature). Heartbreak, confusion, and misogyny stalk this blue-green sphere, yes, but it is also a place of wild delight and unconstrained vitality, a place where we can start living as soon as we are born, and we can be born at any time. In her dazzling, impossible-to-categorize debut, Jenny channels the pain and beauty of life in writing so fresh, so new, and so burstingly alive, we catch her vision like a fever and bring it back out into the bright day with us, and everything has changed."

" Don't Sweat the Small Stuff…and It's All Small Stuff is a book that tells you how to keep from letting the little things in life drive you crazy. In thoughtful and insightful language, author Richard Carlson reveals ways to calm down in the midst of your incredibly hurried, stress-filled life." Next up: Here's What to Do When Social Distancing Gets Tough, According to a Therapist

This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.

Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019. In addition to her work on THE/THIRTY and Who What Wear, she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy , Real Simple , House Beautiful , Elle Decor , and The Bump (sister site of The Knot). She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.

So much fun.

By Natalie Munro

The sort you actually want to read.

By Shannon Lawlor

• Contact Future's experts
• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Cookies policy
• Accessibility Statement
• Advertise with us

Who What Wear UK is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All rights reserved. England and Wales company registration number 2008885.

How Not to Be Bored When You Have to Wait

Sick of standing in line? Instead of looking at your phone, read on.

Want to stay current with Arthur’s writing? Sign up to get an email every time a new column comes out.

L ike many , I travel a lot for work. Unlike many, I never get tired of it. On the open road are always interesting people and new places. Phoenix in July or Fairbanks in the winter? Bring it on. There is one thing about travel that bugs me, though, and has ever since my tender years: the constant waiting. When I travel, I wait in the TSA line, wait to board the plane, wait in restaurants, wait to check into hotels, and on and on.

This pet peeve about waiting is shared by most Americans, 64 percent of whom have to wait in line at a business at least a few times a week, and two-thirds of whom say that their predominant emotion while doing so is negative ( according to a survey by Waitwhile, a company whose business is, literally, queuing management). Small wonder that scholars find that waiting for products and services strongly lowers satisfaction and loyalty to a service provider; according to the Waitwhile survey, 82 percent of customers actively avoid going to a business with a line.

For years, I have tried to design my life in such a way to lower how much time I have to spend waiting, and it has worked: I ask for the check as soon as the server brings me my lunch; I have all the subscriptions that help to streamline one’s passage through the airport; I patronize hotels that have self-service check-in kiosks. No doubt my waiting time is a fraction of what it used to be. But recently, I have realized that despite these improvements, I’m not any less aggravated by the waiting I still have to endure.

Read: What boredom actually means

This mystery has led me to conclude that I have gone about the whole problem in the wrong way. I have been trying to engineer the outside world to make it better for me. I should instead have been working on myself, to live better in a world of waiting.

T he problem with waiting for something we want—even when the waiting is not anxiety-provoking (as it can be for a medical result)—is that it produces two conditions that humans hate: boredom and lack of autonomy.

One way of understanding boredom is that it’s a state in which you fail to find meaning. Standing in line, knowing that you’re doing so to get or do something but are being forced to spend the time unproductively, is what feels meaningless. That can lead to frustration .

People resist the frustration of boredom so much that they will literally choose pain to pass the time: In one famous 2016 study , researchers ran an experiment in which they assigned participants to watch movies that were sad, neutral, or boring, during which they could self-administer painful electric shocks. Those watching the boring film shocked themselves more frequently and at higher intensity than the people watching the other films.

Waiting also lowers your sense of autonomy—or, to use the psychological parlance, creates an external locus of control , which means that your behavior can’t change the situation at hand. This is extremely uncomfortable. Think of the last time you waited in an airport for a long-delayed flight, and the vexation that came from not being able to do anything about it except wait. For people who feel this a lot in their life—not just waiting in the occasional line but feeling as if they generally don’t have control over their circumstances, for economic, health, or social and family reasons—such a lack of autonomy is associated with depression .

Read: Boredom is winning

You have probably noticed that to compound these problems, time seems to slow down when you’re waiting for something. As a rule, time perception is highly contextual and subjective, and the perceived duration of an experience may seem to stretch out when we are under stress. In one experiment from the 1980s showing this, researchers asked people with arachnophobia to look at spiders—of which they were intensely afraid—for two stretches of 45 seconds apiece. They found that the phobic subjects systematically overestimated the amount of spider-watching time endured, especially after the second viewing of the spiders, which was likely related to the subjects’ already heightened stress levels.

Your annoyance in a bank line probably isn’t as extreme as that, but the frustration likely still makes the time drag. All of this leads to a vicious circle of waiting and frustration: The discomfort from waiting makes the waiting seem to go on longer, and this perceived extended waiting time increases your frustration.

T wo obvious solutions to the waiting problem suggest themselves. The first is what I have always done, which is to try to engineer the external environment to eliminate as much waiting as possible. This means scheduling activities meticulously to avoid traffic when possible, subscribing to services that allow you to jump lines, and eating at weird hours when restaurants aren’t crowded. That strategy helps a little, for a while, but as psychologists have long found—and as I’ve discovered for myself—the psychic gains from repeatedly attaining such gratification don’t usually last. That is because of a psychological phenomenon known as affective habituation : the process by which the positive feeling falls when we get something again and again. Although the expense and inconvenience of these things are permanent, studies have shown that the benefits wear off quickly and become a new normal that is very nearly as frustrating as the old one.

Megan Garber: The great fracturing of American attention

Another waiting strategy most people have turned to of late is distraction by device. When a line forms, nearly everyone pulls out their phone to fritter away the time, playing games, checking email, and, especially, scrolling social media. You might think that this solution must work, the way everyone does it, but in fact it might not work at all.

In one study published in 2021, researchers monitored the level of boredom (and fatigue) that people reported over the course of their workday. As their boredom increased, the more likely they were to use their phone. This did not provide relief, however. On the contrary, they reported more boredom and fatigue after having used the phone. Your phone may attract your attention, but after the first few seconds, it may expose the false promise that it really isn’t much more interesting than staring at the wall; meanwhile, it sucks up your energy.

If these solutions that try to change the outside world are not helpful, looking within ourselves could be a better bet. I can recommend two ways to transform waiting time from something to endure into an investment in yourself.

The first is the practice of mindfulness. The most common definition of this is a meditation technique in which one persists in focusing on the present moment. People typically find this quite difficult, even frustrating. But mindfulness can be much simpler and easier than the orthodox meditation practice. As my colleague Ellen Langer, whom I regard as a pioneer in mindfulness research, told me, “It’s simply noticing new things.”

To do this involves putting down the phone when waiting in line—or for a train, or at the airport, or wherever—and simply paying attention. You may not have done this in a long time—perhaps not since you first got a smartphone. You will find—and the research backs this up —that looking around and deliberately taking note of what you observe will probably lower the discomfort from boredom.

Read: The benefits of a short attention span

The second personal change you can try is to practice the virtue of patience. Impatience is obviously central to the waiting-frustration cycle, and research has shown that those who have more patience have higher life satisfaction and lower levels of depression. Of course, the advice “Be patient” doesn’t seem especially helpful, does it? On the contrary, when an airline says “Thank you for your patience,” I quietly seethe with rage (that special road warrior’s rage exquisitely honed for airlines).

Fortunately, scholars have found a solution that, like mindfulness, has a strong connection with Eastern wisdom: the loving-kindness meditation. This is a mental exercise of directing warm emotions toward others, including friends, enemies, the whole world—even airlines. Research has found that this practice can increase patience. As a bonus, you can use it anywhere.

T he best way to lower the misery of waiting, then, turns out to be not to change the world but to change oneself. That insight can apply not just to waiting but to life itself. Most of us go about our days feeling dissatisfied with the world, that it is failing in some way to conform to our preferences and convenience. But on a moment’s reflection, we realize how absurd it is to suppose that it might. To do so is like canoeing down a river and railing against the winding course it takes rather than simply following those bends as best we can.

After research and upon reflection, I am trying a new strategy for waiting—and for a good deal else that bugs me—which is this: observing the world without distraction, and wishing others the love and happiness I want for myself.

But if that fails, maybe I’ll just start shocking myself.

• Click here - to use the wp menu builder

YOUTH ARE AWESOME

Youth Are Awesome, commonly referred to as YAA, is a blog written by youth for youth. YAA provides the youth of Calgary a place to amplify their voices and perspectives on what is happening around them. Youth Are Awesome is a program of Youth Central.

Any views or opinions expressed on this blog belong solely to the author and do not represent those of people or organizations that the blog may be associated with, unless explicitly stated. All content is for informational purposes only.

• Current Issues
• Entertainment
• Learn Something New
• Show Appreciation
• Our Bloggers

Short Stories to Read If You’re Bored

These are a couple original short stories written by me over the past three years, so I’m practically sharing with you, my entire junior high life for your amusement. You are so welcome.

Update: read part 2 here !

Even though I couldn’t see her through the mess of people, I had an idea of exactly where she sat. Table #14, an L-shaped couch by the bathroom that nobody sat at except for her and I. Dodging the elbows, I headed for Table #14 where a baby-blue haired girl sat, looking out the window. It had an amazing view of the Cliff and the world beyond it, which was mostly water. I set down the ice cream and sat down ever so quietly that she didn’t notice me. The reflected light from her necklace kept blinding me, forcing me to stare out the window at the cliff. It felt like centuries and centuries since the disease and water took over the Earth even though it was only a few years back. Back when my parents were alive, back when there wasn’t a monstrous disease terrifying everybody, back when life took place on the ground. Time-bomb broke out a decade ago, I was 7 then and didn’t understand much, but now as a 17-year-old who knows much about the world, time to time, I wish that I was 7 again, mind clear of the horrific details.

Time-bomb was a disease that burns a 3-digit number into your forearm, stating how long you had before you turned into a zombie. The first number is the hour, last two, the minutes. After that stage, a new set of numbers appear, stating how long you had before you died. It’s brutal knowing that time-bomb is still possible to catch in Skyland, after all, we are only in the sky, not free from the air. I guess that’s why lots of people pay nearly $800,000 to board the spaceship, which was well out of Earth’s atmosphere, where it is utterly impossible the catch Time-bomb.

“Lindyn,” Jarli said, snapping me out of my little flashback. She had a 5 dollar bill on her hand. “Oh, no,” I replied, pushing her hand away. “The ice cream’s on me.” I would’ve taken that $5 any day, but you couldn’t have a girl pay for her own ice cream on the day that you were going to kiss her. I’m probably the oldest boy ever who hasn’t had his first kiss yet. It’s now or never. I scooted onto her side of the seat. We’ve known each other for eight years, that’s a long enough wait, right? Jarli had been my first and only friend in Skyland, I worry that kissing her will screw up the past eight years.

I was 9 when we met, it was a day after I got thrown out of the spaceship. It was my aunt and uncle who wanted to bring me up there and try to reduce the fact that I was an orphan, probably wanting me to think that it wasn’t my fault that my parents caught time-bomb. But, the ship went over its capacity and the last boarded person needed to leave who just happened to be my cousin, Raylor. I couldn’t do that to my aunt and uncle, let them throw away their son and keep me instead. So being Lindyn Oh-so-brave , I volunteered to leave back down to Skyland where I currently live in an orphanage with 28 other people. “Those space dudes are dumb butts for not letting you on,” Jarli had said when we met. “But they’re also smart butts because if you boarded, you wouldn’t have met me!”

“Lindyn,” Jarli began, staring out the window, obviously also having a flashback herself. “You know, you’re my best friend and that I trust you with my life right?” Her ice cream was melting uncontrollably under the sun .She tucked her hands into her sweater sleeve, even though it was 23 degrees outside.

“Come with me,” she whispered and dragged me out of the ice cream parlour, my ice cream unfinished. “Don’t draw attention.” She added once we crossed the street. Was it possible to say that the buildings look worn out yet still brand new? Skyland had that effect on you. Jarli lead to me to Greysin Peak, one the of the most unpopular cliffs. I had no idea what she was going to do until she rolled up her sleeves. And there, burned into her skin was a 3-digit number. 107.

“What in the world, Jarli?!” I exclaimed and she shushed me. My lungs were failing me and my pulse accelerated dangerously high. She opened her bag and took something I couldn’t see out. I can’t I’m losing yet another person to time-bomb. My heart shattered and my brain when numb. I didn’t snap back to reality until Jarli handed me a gun.

“What? No!” I muttered, the tears already strolling down my face. “I-I can’t, I–“

“Do it Lindyn!” She interrupted. “If you’ve ever loved me, kill me.” She stepped forward, brought her hands up to my face and kissed me. She was also crying. “Please.” We were less than a meter from the edge. “Please, just pull the trigger, before I turn. I can’t die knowing that the government killed me. You have to.” She emphasized the have. My heart dropped and the past year flashed before my eyes as I took a breath and pulled the trigger. My eyes were shut but I could hear a choking sound and a splash. I threw the gun down to the ocean as well. The pain took over so much that I didn’t even care that she kissed me. Her lips were warm despite her bloodshot eyes and cold hands. But none of that matters because she’s gone now. All I have of her is memories.

I started sobbing then, like full on sobbing with a runny nose and everything. My eyes hurt and my fingers cramped up. I wish I could explain this but this isn’t a feeling that’s easy to describe and nothing could be compared to it. There is sad, and loneliness and loss and pain and fear but this feeling needed its own category. I can’t get her back in anyway, however, the least I can do is what she would’ve wanted me to do. To pick my butt up and go on living my life. I had to move on no matter the pain, life wasn’t made for you to curl up in a ball and cry. Life was made for you to live through thick and thin. And that’s exactly what I did.

     8:15. Everything was grey . His hair, his eyes, his skin. I remember him standing on the other side of the porthole, smiling at me, his dimples visible through the slightly tinted four-inch glass. He was gorgeous, better looking than any boy in Type A. He was Type O, he lived in the middle. Type O was the universal donor, so they were the centre of everything. The government and everyone important was an O. The rest live around the circle, still separated by big stone walls with a large glass frame, which we called the porthole. We weren’t allowed to communicate with the other types, just see them. We would be executed if we were found guilty of being in love with another type. Which is why I’m in trouble.

I’ve looked through portholes all my life, I’ve seen hundreds of Type A’s, B’s, AB’s and O’s. But it’s the first time I’ve ever seen him. I didn’t look through the porthole to Type O very often, mainly because I was scared of everyone there. They were high classed and powerful, I was low classed and powerless. But I suppose opposites attract.

8:20. I stepped outside and headed to the porthole to see if he was there again. I passed the porthole on my way to school every morning, and he was there every time. Today was Sunday; it had been exactly seven days since I’d first seen him. I glared up at the grey sky. Myths say that the sky was once blue, whatever that looked like. Colours were just a story told to little kids. They said the world wasn’t always black and white, they said there was red and green and purple and yellow. They told us that grass used to be green and apples used to be red. The stories told us everything about colour except how they looked. No matter how hard they tried, they couldn’t describe what blue looked like. It was impossible to imagine, but I thought of blue as a mesmerising colour. I thought it was something you could stare at for hours and hours and lose track of time. Scientists believed that if we ever saw colours, our brain would automatically recognise it, even if we had never seen colours before. My dad was a scientist, he studied the world. He researched colours. Why we couldn’t see them, why they disappeared in the first place and how to get them back. I’d talk to him for hours about colours. They always intrigued me.

I missed my dad a lot. My heart ached every time I thought about him, he was the happiest man to ever live and was so optimistic that he made everyone else around him happy as well. But apparently the world didn’t want me to be happy and he was taken from me. Him and his team of scientists were murdered by the government on September 15th three years ago. The government didn’t want people to know about what they were researching, but I never understood why. What was so bad about colour?

8:45. I arrived at the porthole and like every day, he was there. His grey hair flowed in the summer wind, looking like beautiful ocean waves. He looked around him before stepping closer, I looked around too. As he neared the window, he slipped out a piece of paper from his hand and unfolded it in front of me. He pressed it against the soundproof glass. It read: Grayson. He pointed to himself, indicating that it was his name. Using my fingers, I tried to spell out my name in return but ended up spelling Cassie instead of Cassy because I didn’t know how to make a Y with my hand.

9:00. Our rendezvous came to an end. I would have to wait another 24 hours before seeing him again. I didn’t know if I could survive that long. He made me laugh and smile without words. I hadn’t been this happy with anyone since my dad. I’ve had to fake my smiles for so long, I had almost forgotten what it was like to be happy, to have real happiness. No one could know that I was actually sad on the inside. I was Cassandra Ink, I was supposed to be a cheerful girl. My smiles were supposed to be authentic, but instead, they were plastered on my face while I played Fake It Till You Make It . I didn’t know what was wrong with me. I had so many friends, yet I still felt lonely. I loved them with all my heart but none of them were real. I had fake friends, paper friends. They didn’t care about the things I cared about nor did they really care for anything except for themselves. I hated myself for being unhappy and I hated everyone else for not making me happy. But I couldn’t blame other people for my own feelings.

9:15. “You’re late.” A voice behind me said. “I cannot believe you’re late.” The sound of a hundred schoolgirls almost drowned out the voice. I swirled around and faced Teagan Triste, the leader of the clique I was in. She ran the most popular group in Janiel Smith’s All Girls High School, and I was in it. I was popular and I had other people look up to me. Other girls would kill for my spot, but I would kill for their spot. I wished I was some normal girl with two real friends instead of twenty fake friends. I blamed my popularity on my sadness. These girls felt like strangers to me despite the fact that I had been friends with them for the past five years. I felt as if all of them had changed so suddenly and I just didn’t get the memo.

    “Oh, yeah,” I said, “I’m sorry, I left my house late. I lost track of time when I passed the porthole.” At least part of my excuse was true.

    “Why?” She scoffed. “The porthole is a terrible place to hang around. Unless you’re some kind of notorious criminal or something.” No one came near the portholes. Even though it wasn’t illegal to look through them, it was frowned upon by everybody. Perhaps they feared of falling in love, so they stayed away. I guess Grayson and I were the only people stupid enough to look. Stupidity does land you in some pretty awful situations.

    “Wait,” Teagan grabbed my arm and stopped me from walking away. “Something’s up, I can see it on your face. Something you haven’t told me yet.” I rubbed my face as if the word Grayson had been written all over it. My face burned as I blushed. Teagan squealed. I tried to hide my face but that only made her squeal more. “Spill!” She laughed and lightly punched my arm. I hesitated. If I told her, my life would end. My hands were cold but they were sweating. I really wanted to trust Teagan, I’ve trusted her with almost every secret in my life, but there were some things you need to keep to yourself. I debated whether it was one of those things or not.

    “I can’t,” I began, “I can’t say.” Teagan jerked her head back as if I had slapped her. She looked hurt.

    “Oh, I see.” She said and laughed awkwardly. “That’s fine.” She lied and began to walk away. Guilt wavered through me. All of a sudden, something clicked inside my mind, like turning gears.

   “Wait!” I shouted, grabbing her arm. “I’ll… I’ll tell you.” A smile appeared on her face. I thought maybe if I told her my secret, she would be less fake to me. I was dead wrong. “There’s a boy,” I began, “that I sort of like.” Teagan bit her lip and raised her eyebrows up and down. For the first time in awhile, I felt like I was the first choice. Though I knew that Teagan would pick Stacy or  Quincy over me any other day, it felt nice to be the first choice for even just a few minutes. I took a breath in and let it out slowly. Goosebumps emerged from my skin. My voice quivered as I continued. “Um, he’s really good looking and really nice. He’s funny too, but, um,” I paused, this was my last chance to lie, my last chance to turn back. I looked at Teagan’s face, she seemed genuinely interested, like she actually cared. It reminded me of what it used to be like when everything was real. And when I stared into Teagan’s eyes, I realized how much I missed it. So I told her. “He’s an O.” Teagan remained quiet and backed up. “Teagan,” I reached for her but she jumped back in shock.

   “No,” She murmured, “don’t worry, your secret is safe with me.” Teagan slung her backpack on her shoulder and fixed her hair before rushing away. What have I done?

9:45. I stepped out of the bathroom stall and looked at myself in the mirror. My hair flowed down half my back; my mom hadn’t cut my hair in years. She didn’t do much for me these days. She became addicted to alcohol shortly after my dad died. I didn’t really know why I think she just wanted to numb the pain. I wished that I could drink my problems away too but I was only 17, under aged.

9:47. Two girls walked into the bathroom as I turned on the sink. I recognized them right away. They were Stacy and Quincy, my “friends.” They stared at me through the mirror.

    “Hey, Stace, hey, Quinn,” I said. They kept on looking at me. I laughed dryly.

    “Don’t call us that,” Stacy said through her teeth. Her voice was so low it sounded like a demon had possessed her. She might as well have been possessed, the things that came out of her mouth were inhuman. “You are disgusting. You are a criminal. I cannot believe that I was ever friends with someone like you. The government is what keeps our city in order and you go ahead and break their rules? I’ve seen your grades, you’re smart; so why are you doing something this stupid?” Anger rushed through my body like bolts of electricity. I was mostly mad at them for cornering me like this, but a little part of me was mad because I didn’t know the answer to her question. They stepped closer to me; my back was flat against the bathroom wall. Tears welled up in my eyes but I didn’t dare let them fall. I was not going to cry over Stacy and Quinn. If I cried, they’d win. I was not going to let them push me around like this, I was not going to let Teagan push me around like this.  Quincy stepped forward and began to talk, avoiding my eyes. “Your father deserved to die. He wouldn’t have wanted to be seen alive with such a disgrace like you as his daughter.” At that moment, my self-control disappeared. I lost it. As if it was in my blood, I raised my fist and aimed at Quincy’s face. My knuckles connected hard with her nose. She stumbled back, slamming her head onto a stall door. The pain stung my hand and travelled up my forearm; but if I had the chance to punch her again, I would do it.

Stacy dropped to her knees beside Quincy with paper towels in her hands. Quincy sat up against a toilet, her head back and eyes closed. For a moment I thought she was dead. Her face was pale and she did not move a limb. Stacy shook Quincy’s shoulders. To my relief, she moved. As her head turned to me, she laughed.

     “You stupid little thing,” she guffawed, “I can’t wait ’till you get executed.” Her words hit me like punches to the gut and I felt like throwing up. I had almost forgotten; I was going to die.

9:50. Realisation hit me like a wave. If Teagan had told everyone, she obviously would have told the government. Soon enough President Wilcox would send troops out to find me; word travelled fast, I didn’t have any time left. Stares followed me as I ran down the hallway, the speed that gossip travelled at was insane. The entire school was filled with whispers and all eyes were on me. I tucked my hand in my sweater, hiding the grey blood on my knuckles from Quincy’s nose. I didn’t need everyone thinking that I was freakier than they thought.

9:52. I left my backpack in my locker and bolted out the main doors. I had to leave. I didn’t where I was going, but I ran. I ran as fast as my short legs could carry me. The water on the grass flicked onto my ankle with every step I took. It didn’t rain much around here, but when it did, it was taken as a symbol. It either meant death or change. For the past decade and a half, the rain had never been wrong. It rained the day I lost my father and the day I lost my grandparents; that’s when I knew that the rain never lied.

10:17. Part of me couldn’t process what was happening. It was all so fast. Just over two hours ago, I was normal. I had a chance of living, of growing old. I couldn’t die at 17, it wasn’t long enough. I’ve never had a significant other, I’ve never kissed anyone, I’ve never known what the other types were like. There are so many things I haven’t done, so many things I’ll never know. 17 years is too short of a time to get to know the world, I wanted to live forever. The world was so fascinating, I wanted to be in it for as long as I could. The sky mesmerised me. I found it so hard to believe that just outside of our atmosphere, there was an endless abyss of stars and planets. I wished I could have somehow convinced the government to kill me later, I just wanted to spend one more day in the world.

10:22. The feeling of knowing that you were going to die soon was unreal. There were no words that described how it felt. It was like a realistic nightmare. Instead of three headed monsters, there were three short blonde haired girls. Instead of being eaten by zombies, it was being shot on live television by the government. But in this nightmare, I wasn’t allowed to wake up, my problems won’t disappear in the morning.

10:45. I took a break by Elmond Bridge and rested my forehead on my jeans. They had a strong scent of lemon and lilac, my mom’s favourite smells. She loved hand washing my clothes just so she could add her own customised scents to it. They’ve never made a lemon and lilac laundry detergent, but if they had, that’s what my mom would smell like all the time. I had remembered all those countless nights she spent washing our truckload of clothes. From then on, I tried really hard not to get any of my clothes dirty so that I didn’t have to tire out my mom every night. I would wake up to her sleeping on the couch, a drink in one hand and a sock in the other. I didn’t think I knew that I would be giving her up if I decided to run away forever.

10:50. But she was my mother, the most important person in my life, I couldn’t leave without saying goodbye. I got up from my hiding spot and hesitated. If I went home, the troops would have an easy time finding me, but if I didn’t go home, I would’ve been filled with regret. My mom supported me through everything, and although she didn’t always give me enough freedom to be the type of person I wanted to be, she was a great mom and I didn’t think she knew that’s what I thought. I had to go home, I wanted to see her one more time, to tell her all the things I had wanted to say but never did. I wanted to let her know that, even though I’ve never said it enough, I appreciated everything she did for me and I loved her more than anything. I just wished that I had more time to talk to her. I took the time that we had before for granted. I made my decision: I was going to see her if it was the last thing I did; and maybe, if I was quick enough, the troops wouldn’t catch me.

10:55. I sprinted across the fields. My house was easy to spot. It was the only black house in the neighbourhood. I ran between trees, catching my breath behind each of them; I could hear the troop cars driving up and down my street. In quick strides, I hopped up the stairs to my back door and turned the knob. The wooden floor of our 50-year-old house creaked as I made my way to the living room. I’ve lived in this house all my life, yet once I walked through the halls, it felt like a whole lifetime ago. My heartbeat accelerated as I neared my living room. I had never been this nervous inside my own home before.

11:15. I was greeted by the sound of splashing water as I entered the room. And there sat my mom, doing the laundry. Suddenly I caught the smell of lemony lavender and I felt safe. My mind became dizzy and I bumped into a table corner, grabbing her attention.

11:17. “Cassy?” My mom looked at me. “Cassy, honey, are you okay?” Something came over me and all of a sudden I wrapped my arms around her. What scared me most was the fact that that was probably going to be the last time I got to hug her, so I cherished the moment. I started to sob into her neck, I didn’t want to leave her. Her arms were warm around my back, I knew it would be a while until we did that again. I felt like a small child, running from the monsters under her bed and into her mother’s embrace; but in my case, the monsters were real and not even the safety of my mother’s arm could fight them off.

    “Cassy, what’s the problem–” She barely got to finish her sentence when a loud thud came from the mud room. The monsters were here. They had kicked down our door and barged into our house, weapons in hand. They all wore matching tracksuits that entitled them Type O Government Troops . The letters TOGT were imprinted on the back of their jackets. Two men in all black came and pried me off of my mom. I tried to struggle free but they were strong and had tight grips on my arms. Another two went for my mom, holding her back. They sat her on the couch and dragged me out of the house. Besides my mom and I, no one else spoke, they didn’t even bother telling my mom why I was being taken. Our screams echoed off of the cement walls, but the troops showed no mercy. All of a sudden, I felt something heavy hit the back of my neck. White pain shot down my back, but it didn’t last long. I began to see black creeping from the side of my eyes. Soon, everything was dark and I didn’t feel a thing.

1:23. I woke to the sound of overlapping conversations and the smell of new leather. I was in the backseat of the government car. The cool leather felt nice against my skin. My hands weren’t cuffed, so I could move around freely, but I didn’t dare try anything. I pressed my hands on the car window and peered outside. It didn’t look familiar at all, but I did make out one thing: Grayson. His hair swayed in the wind like usual, but instead of a smile, he pursed his lips. His eyes were on the car, at me. For a few moments I thought he was staring at me, but it was impossible; the car’s windows were tinted dark black. Grayson stood amongst the crowd in front of a building. From all my years of watching TV, I knew exactly which building it was. It was the government building. It was my execution ground.

1:24. The car door opened and the crowd grew louder. I made eye contact with Grayson. He pushed his way through the crowd so he was just behind the four-foot tall fence that separated us. I felt like a celebrity, walking down the white carpet with fans and reporters along the sides. But I sure wasn’t treated like one. I was shoved forward by troops and their batons as they yelled at me to keep it moving. The flashing of cameras made it hard to see where I was going, but it also blinded the troops; it gave me a five-second window to escape. My heart was beating faster than it ever had and the second their grip loosened, I broke free and ran; I ran for Grayson. I was scared for my life, but it didn’t matter, I was going to die either way.

1:25. As I neared Grayson, something squeezed my left wrist; one of the troops got ahold of me. I was so close. I jumped forward and reached out my right hand just as Grayson reached out his. Electricity buzzed through me as our forefingers touched. The force sent both of us stumbling back and falling. I had hit my head on the pavement in the process.

1:26. As I opened my eyes, something new was in front of me. It was the colour green. It had replaced the once grey lawn grass. I couldn’t believe my own eyes. Everything was different; it had a colour. My dad had was right; I could recognize colours like I had known them for my whole life. The bark of the trees were brown and the colour of my skin was tan. I looked up at the sky, and everything was blue.

2:45 – It was crowded on the street. People kept elbowing me in my sides, but I didn’t care. For Aspen, I would do anything. Aspen. Aspen Newton. Aspen Millard Newton. Just thinking about his name made my heart ache. Picturing his soft smile immediately made me feel at home in this strange city. I remembered how his black hair drooped over his forehead and how those dazzling green eyes were always hidden behind a pair of black-rimmed spectacles. I would give anything just to stand beside him one more time. We wouldn’t even have to talk; I just want to feel his presence again. Ever since he left, it’s like a piece of me went with him, beyond the grave.

Out of everything I’ve ever done in the seventeen years, there has always been one thing I regretted the most. And that was not being there in that hospital on this exact day, one year ago. Aspen was diagnosed with leukemia in Grade 10 and died 489 days after. The vast majority of kids who had leukemia have at least five years to live after their diagnosis, but I guess Aspen wasn’t like the other kids. He was different, but in a good way, and that was why he was my best friend, practically a brother to me.

Our parents were close, so it was a huge advantage that we could hang out more than regular friends. Every vacation, every family event, every road trip, we’d go on them together. We were inseparable, side-by-side ’til death do us apart. It just sucks how his death had to come so early.

2:47 – The time between his passing and his funeral is still a blur of events to me. I remembered not going to school, I remembered hiding in my room all day and I remembered all those tear stains I left in Aspen’s sweater. His mother took all his belongings and moved to France after he died, she wanted to be as far away from California as possible. But, I get it; she was upset. Her only son died just a few months before her husband decided to leave her. If I were her, I would’ve moved even further. It must’ve been tough on her, not even my mom could talk Ms. Newton out of leaving. She had cut our family out of her life and left my mom heartbroken. I looked at my mom. She was sitting next to me on this stone block in the middle of Times Square, checking her watch from time to time. The wrinkles around her eyes were more noticeable nowadays; she seems tired all the time. Ms. Newton’s sudden departure from her life crushed her. I had no idea what Ms. Newton was going through, but I wish she had stayed. I also wish that she had left more of Aspen’s things with me. I had nothing left of him except for his old grey sweatshirt and a crumpled handwritten letter.

I reached into my burgundy backpack and tried to fish out the envelope, which was a bright, pastel purple colour. It was ironic how a jubilant looking envelope held such a melancholic letter. I’ve read it a million times and more; these are pretty much his last words to me. As his dying wish, he wanted me to come here, to stand here, in Times Square, in New York on April 27 and wait until 3:00. He said it was going to be his ultimate surprise for me. I’ve no clue what it is that Aspen’s planned, but I’m beyond excited. It’s like he’s here with me. We used to love surprising each other, but every time, Aspen would out-surprise me. He always went that extra mile. That was one of my favourite things about him.

2:50 – “Sorry!” A man said as he ran into me, spilling all the contents from the open backpack and envelope I was holding. He didn’t even stop to help, just yelled his apology and sprinted on. Disrespectful as it was, this was New York, and everyone was always late.

“Oh, Lyria!” My mom hustled over, “Honey, are you alright? Let me help you with that.”

“I’m fine, mom,” I reassured her as I gathered the fallen items. Most of them were just pictures of Aspen and I. In the ninth grade we received our first phone, so we decided to start a “photo war.” The goal was to have, by senior year, the ugliest pictures of the other person. Images of Aspen took up the majority of my phone storage. My solution was to print them all out. They were stored in that purple envelope, the one I carried around with me everywhere. Now, they were spilt across the dirty pavement with hundreds of shoes stepping on them. Some were still in good shape, but most of them had dusty shoe prints on the back; luckily none were ripped or folded.

“Lyria, sweetie,” my mom said in the most pitiful voice I’d ever heard. She handed me a stack of brown-edged pictures.

“It’s totally okay,” I lied, “besides, they sort of look vintage now. So, I guess it’s cool.” I collected the rest of them and thanked the kind people that bothered to help me. I caught a glance at a couple of the photos and suddenly, my heart felt so heavy. It sank into the bottom my stomach and my breath was uneasy. Tears welled up in my eyes as I inhaled deeply and plopped down on the ground.

“Lyria!” Mom scolded, “those are your nice leggings!” I pretended not to hear her and continued to look at the photographs. I picked one out and held it in front of me. It was taken the day we had that awful substitute in math. I snapped a picture of Aspen from all the way across the room, right when the teacher was telling him off. I had to cover my mouth to stop myself from laughing. He had on an expression of pure terror.

2:55 – I shuffled through the undamaged pictures, each one bringing, even more, emotions than the next. I found the one I took of him the night of our first high school party. His hair was gelled up and he ditched his glasses for some contacts. I studied his face closely; I preferred him with glasses on. Aspen wouldn’t be Aspen without his glasses. After flipping through more, I came upon the one I took a week before I found out Aspen had cancer. His eyes were crossed and had his tongue sticking out; it was the first day of sophomore year, our last full year together.

He died in January of junior year. It wasn’t fair; how could the world steal him away from me? He was my home away from home; he was my everything and more. We planned our whole lives around each other. With him gone, there’s this huge Aspen-shaped hole in my life, and nothing could ever fit in that spot. It was like losing the last piece in a jigsaw puzzle and trying to fit pieces from another set in the missing place. Even if it did fit, you know it wouldn’t be the same; you can’t complete a picture with a piece that doesn’t belong. Aspen was that very last piece; now I’ll never get to finish my puzzle.

It’s a shame we didn’t get to end our “photo war.” I didn’t even get a chance to see any of the pictures he took of me. Whenever I asked, he always replied the same way.

“No way, Lyria,” he would say, “just wait until senior year, then you’ll see! It’s a surprise! I’m good at surprises, don’t worry. You won’t be disappointed. I PROMISE!” I couldn’t help but smile at that memory. The world is so cruel; it just had to let him die, didn’t it? There are so many evil people who are still alive, and God decides to choose Aspen? I just don’t get it. Why him? Why choose the good guy? I would’ve gone in Aspen’s spot if I had the chance. I could die in satisfaction if I knew that he was still living and breathing. But I guess it just doesn’t work like that.

2:59 – “Lyria!” my mother called, “it’s almost time! Get up, get up!” At that, my heart began to beat faster and faster. I’ve waited over a year for this moment. At last, I’ll get my final “surprise” from Aspen. I carefully stuffed the pictures back into its envelope and jumped up to stand next to my mom. This was it, this was it. I held my breath and shut my eyes as Mom counted down the remaining ten seconds. Ten… Nine… Eight… Seven… Six… Five… Four… Three… Two… One…

3:00 – It was time. I reopened my eyes and found myself staring at the same American Eagle advertisement I was looking at before. My throat tightened. No way that this was it. Aspen would never do this to me.

1 minute past 3:00 and still nothing. My shoulders slowly slumped.

2 minutes past 3:00 and still nothing. I plastered a fake smile on my face.

3 minutes past 3:00 and still nothing. I tried to hold back the tears. I kept on a brave face so my mom wouldn’t see how disappointed I was. It was going well until she wrapped her arms around me. It was then when I started sobbing into her wool scarf. I couldn’t control myself and I was too embarrassed to reveal my face to the crowd of people whose eyes I could feel burning into my back. It wasn’t every day you saw a seventeen-year-old girl bawl her eyes out like a child.  

3:04 – Suddenly, everyone started gasping and yelling out questions. I lifted my head to see what they were chattering about. That’s when I saw. All the commercial screens went black, every single one of them.

“LOOK!” someone shouted behind me. I twirled around and stared at what was once the advertisement board for American Eagle. Now it was a black screen with white words appearing on the bottom like subtitles.

War’s over, Lyria Hugo , it read, I win. I miss you, I love you. From, your best friend, Aspen.

Of course, this was Aspen’s surprise. Always out-surprising me, this one. And fashionably late, as usual.

Photographs began to fade in on the other screens. It took a few moments before I realised that those images were of me. This was his collection of my ugly pictures. This is what he was saving them for. Dozens of them showed up on the surrounding screens. I dropped to my knees and covered my mouth. This was amazing.

Before I knew it, I was crying again, but this time, they were happy tears.

What did I do to deserve a friend like Aspen?

I looked up at the sky and smiled. I bet he could see me from up there and I wanted him to see how elated I was.

I’ll admit it, Aspen Newton. I lose.

I miss you more, I love you more. From, your best friend, Lyria.

Thanks for reading, I hope you liked them!

featured image

• original stories
• short stories

Instagram’s Viral New Policy to Limit Political Content

Picture prompts: what can you come up with, how were seasonal breaks integrated into our society, most popular, caged: puppy mills and their horrifying living conditions, a checklist to help maintain a comfortable schedule, stay in touch.

© Youth Central

100+ Creative Things to Do When You're Bored to Pass the Time

Stuck inside and getting antsy? Try one of these fun activities.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Instead of sitting around on your phone getting lost in the news and social media (ahem, doomscrolling ), pivot to some fun things you can do at home or in your own backyard. We’ve rounded up the best things to when you’re bored, many of which require little to no money or extra materials. From board games and self-care to getting into gardening (or indoor houseplants !) and organizing or optimizing your space, these unique activities will keep your brain stimulated and your body busy.

Fun activities to do when stuck inside

• Play an instrument. If you don't know how, this is the perfect time to learn how to pluck out your favorite tune on the piano or guitar.
• Write a short story. Or an essay. Or a play — anything that's out of your comfort zone.
• Do a deep dive on a subject that interests you. If you find yourself continuously drawn to a specific subject like Impressionism or the animals of Amazon rainforest, set up a queue of documentaries, articles or books on the topic.
• Fill out a crossword puzzle. Go solo, or turn it into a fun family activity if everyone's just laying around.
• Try Origami. Don't get intimidated — there are plenty of online tutorials to give you a hand.
• Play a board game. Turn off the TV and challenge the family to a board game . Introduce the kids to a classic like Chutes and Ladders or Monopoly , or try a newer one like Settlers of Catan that you can all figure out together.
• Put together a puzzle. When you've got lots of time on your hands, get your hands busy. It'll take your mind off boredom, and completing a big puzzle feels great.
• Watch a rom-com marathon. We're not afraid to admit it, romantic comedies have stolen our hearts. Don't forget the popcorn.
• Sing along to some Disney songs. Get your endorphins flowing by taking it back to childhood. Belt out your favorite Disney songs !
• Plan your next getaway. Don't just daydream about getting away from it all. Do one better and actually look up plane tickets and hotel rooms.
• Build a fort. Kids know this already: The couch cushions or a few chairs and blankets make an awesome wonderland. Embrace your inner child, or let yours show you the ropes.
• Try new outfits. Even if you haven't gotten new clothes in a minute, creating different outfits can make your wardrobe feel fresh. Mix it up so you'll be ready to wow on your next social outing.
• Write a letter. In the age of text messages and FaceTime, we don't write out our feelings very often. Get out some nice paper and spread some love to a friend or family member.
• Watch a sports game. No sports on live TV? Stream some classic games.
• Call a friend . If you're usually a text communicator, pick up the phone or video call a faraway pal. The real-time connection can make you feel closer.
• Watch a performance. Instead of turning on another reality show, watch an online opera, ballet or symphony.
• Learn a new language. Thanks to apps like Duolingo , you can stretch your mental muscles wherever you are.
• Watch a solo movie . Grab whatever snacks you crave, hoard the couch and laugh or cry as loud as you want: Movies make an excellent date night for one.
• Have a dance party. Turn on some tunes and get those socks hoppin'. Throw it back with oldies from your glory days or find some hot new bops to shake your booty.
• Learn some popular moves. Download the Tik Tok app and challenge yourself to learn the trending choreography all the kids are doing.
• Play a video game. If you don't have a gaming console, try some of the fun games on your phone's app store.

Creative things to do indoors

• Tie-dye an outfit. Who doesn't love a craft you can wear? If you don't know where to begin, check out our step-by-step guide for beginners !
• Paint a picture. Unwind with a DIY sip and paint — there are so many painting tutorials on YouTube . Plus, you can pick up a solid set of water colors for under $10.
• Start scrapbooking. Relive your favorite vacations and childhood memories as you preserve them for posterity in a fun, personalized photo album.
• Make pottery. For a craft that gets your hands pleasantly dirty and results in something pretty and useful, try throwing some homemade pottery.
• Make jewelry that matches your style. With the right DIY jewelry kit , it's unbelievably easy to update your collection.
• Learn a how to do new hairstyle. We'd save anything involving scissors for the professionals, but French braids, creative ponytails and space buns are all super easy to master.
• Start a new book. If you've run through your TV queue, go analog. Try one of the best books of 2021 to transport yourself to another world or join the GH Book Club .
• Download an audiobook. If you have a hard time focusing your attention enough to read in print, try audiobooks for listening on the go or when doing chores or cooking a meal. The best of the best will make the hours fly by.
• Listen to a new podcast. If you've never tried podcasts, there's a whole world out there for you to discover. From true crime podcasts to comedy podcasts , there's a pod for every taste.
• Try a coloring app. Adult coloring books are available in-stores and in mobile app stores, so you can get in on the fun right from your couch. Start with Colorfy and Happy Color .
• Make a custom photo book. You don't need the talent of Michelangelo to create a memorable photo book. A variety of online services can help you collect your photos into a beautiful keepsake.
• Change up your décor. From the bedroom to living room to kitchen, even just rearranging your furniture or moving tchotchkes around a little will feel fresh.
• Make some wall art. You don't need to be a master painter to DIY some of these fabulous wall decor ideas .
• Whip up a new recipe. Stop opening and closing the fridge hoping new snacks will magically appear. Take matters into your own hand and make your own tasty treat.
• Craft a complex meal. To fill a dreary afternoon, dive into a complicated cooking project. Create a four-course meal, make pasta from scratch, or just try your hand at a cuisine you've never made before.
• Bake cookies . Choose a healthy cookie recipe to learn a new way to throw down in the baking aisle.
• Learn cake decorating. If you're in awe of the gorgeous creations at your local bakery or on one of zillions of baking shows, get in on the game. Cake decorating kits can help your make your own masterpiece.
• Make homemade ice cream. Give Ben & Jerry a run for their money and customize your sundae. Simply combine your favorite ingredients in an ice cream maker and grab a spoon.
• Indulge in a sundae bar. Set out ice cream and toppings like candy, mini chocolate chips, shaved chocolate, sprinkles, various syrups and whipped cream — the sky's the limit. If it's cold out, turn it into a hot cocoa bar instead.
• Eat breakfast for dinner. Go for pancakes, omelettes, eggs and bacon, the works. Don't forget the mimosas or Bloody Mary's and eat in your pj's to really go for it.
• Build a gingerbread house. They're not just for the holiday season anymore. Just don't eat all of your materials before putting on the finishing touches.
• Work on your wish list. Go ahead, dream big for the next holiday. Put together a wish list of items (or experiences) you have your eye on, so you won't be caught off guard when Santa comes around.
• Become a YouTube or TikTok star. Pretend you're Julia Child and film your own cooking show, or teach the camera how to DIY a craft or organization technique. The lifestyle of the rich and famous awaits.
• Put together a care package. Take the focus off your own doldrums by making a friend or family member feel extra special. Mail them a package full of their favorite things (perhaps some of our favorite wellness gifts ?).
• Write to a deployed soldier. Many military members who are deployed far from home can get homesick, especially if they don't have family or friends who write to them. Help connect them with someone who cares by writing a solider a letter .

Relaxing stress-relief activities

• Make a gratitude list. It's easy to get dragged down by the ongoing barrage of bad news, but reflecting on all of the good in your life can help balance the equation.
• Write out your goals. Drag yourself out of the present moment by looking to the future. Take some time to reflect on where you want to be in a year, five years, or beyond.
• Unplug your devices. Endless scrolling on social media can certainly take a toll on your mental health. Break free from the temptation by giving yourself an hour a day away from your phone.
• Do a random act of kindness. Whether it's as simple as a paying for coffee of the person standing behind you in line or picking up your partner's favorite ice cream, it feels good to make someone else's day.
• Give knitting a try. There's a reason this craft is a favorite of grandmas everywhere — many find the repetitive motion very calming.
• Paint your nails. Create an at-home spa experience with a mani-pedi. Choose a trending hue, add an interesting design and finish it off with a shiny, eye-catching top coat.
• Take a bubble bath. Embrace your free time with a mountain of bubbles and a few drops of essential oil for extra relaxation. Bring a good book in there with you, if you don't mind it getting a tad damp.
• Put on a face mask. For a quick pick-me-up, apply a relaxing face mask. There's one for just about every skin concern, including dry skin, acne, or to brighten up a dull complexion. Whatever ails you, there's a mask for that .
• Give your sweetie a massage. Grab some relaxing lotions or essential oils , get in your coziest robe and turn on some zen tunes for an at-home spa day.
• Start journaling. Time will fly by as you jot down your thoughts in a journal. If you want to go even deeper, venture into the artistic world of bullet journals .
• Listen to a meditation video. When your mind starts to spiral, turn inward. Meditation videos can easily guide you through mindful exercises and techniques to hop off the anxiety hamster wheel.
• Try living room yoga. In addition to strengthening your whole body, yoga helps center your mind. You can do it at home with no equipment using a free app , too. Just don't push yourself further than you're comfortable, especially if you're new to the practice.
• Do Zumba. There's something about this structured dance party that is sure to lift your spirits.
• Work your core. Pump out a few core exercises to establish a strong inner foundation. Strong abs aren't just cosmetic; they can help with posture, back pain and more.
• Try a new exercise routine. We've all got those areas that could use a little love. Give a new workout a try to tire out your body so your brain has less energy to ruminate.
• Give a pep talk. Sometimes adding a jolt of positivity to someone else's life can make your own seem brighter, too. Call a friend, a family member or just pump up the cat's ego (not that she needs it).
• Have a lights-out night. For a creative date night (or date night for one) pretend the electricity went out. Build a fire in the fireplace, light some candles or grab a flashlight and tell spooky stories or just reconnect in the dark.
• Walk down memory lane. Pull out old photo albums or scroll way back in your social media feeds to relive happy times. Swap stories with your sweetheart about the lives you've led or just reminisce over where you've been and where you're going.
• Sleep somewhere new. When you can't get away, take an overnight in your own guest room or swap rooms with the kids. It'll feel like a novel experience, without leaving your house.
• Vent your frustrations. Look, sometimes you just need to whine. Open the notes app on your phone, ring up a trusted pal for a good, old-fashioned complain fest or just mutter to yourself until you've aired all of your grievances. You'll feel better once it's out in the open.

Organizing activities to pass time

• Straighten up your junk drawer. That drawer or space where you put everything you don't know where else to put? Yeah, it could definitely use some organizing.
• Move your furniture around. You'd be surprised how different your room could look with a few of your pieces of furniture swapped. Think of it like a room renovation on a $0 budget.
• Move some art. If you're sick of staring at the same walls, change them! Rearrange your gallery wall , put some bedroom art into the living room and vice versa or pick up a new piece or two to refresh your space.
• Meal prep for the week. Fans of this meal prepping say that it has helped them eat healthier in the long run, not to mention cut down on mid-week stress.
• Clean out your attic. Or your basement. Or your crawlspace, or that one place you shove the boxes of stuff you rarely use.
• Clean your dishwasher. Did you know that your dishwasher has a filter? And that you should be cleaning it regularly ? It's actually really satisfying watching the debris rinse off your filter. A squeaky clean dishwasher is more effective and efficient too, so that's a win-win all over.
• Wash your washing machine. Just because you clean your clothes in it doesn't mean your washing machine doesn't also need a deep-clean . Add it to your spring, summer or just free afternoon cleaning schedule.
• Scour your whole house. When we get bored, we often feel helpless. But tackling even the simplest task, like doing that stack of dishes you've been ignoring, can boost your mood immediately. Start with these easy cleaning tips or try a full ultimate cleaning schedule to tackle every inch of the house.
• Shine the windows. You'll be amazed how much brighter things look with sparkling clean windows. Let the sunshine in with these tips for the best results .
• Clean your pillows. When was the last time you washed your pillows? Yeah, we thought so. Give them a deep clean for an even better night's sleep.
• Wash your makeup brushes. When was the last time you cleaned all of your makeup tools ? Yes, even your ride-or-die Beautyblender could use a scrub. It can help cut down on breakouts, too.
• Sort through your purses. While switching between bags or purses, we all leave stuff in the bottom (receipts, gum wrappers, pens, etc). Clean out your purses and you just might find that lost lipstick — or at least some spare change.
• Clean out your closet. Go through your clothes to rediscover some old favs and make room for new ones. If you haven't worn it in the past year, consider posting it on a clothing resale app or donating it to someone in need.
• Organize your kitchen. Already mastered the KonMari Method ? You're ready to dive into the wonderful world of drawer and cabinet organizers . You'll never notice the clock ticking away.
• Refresh your mantel. Make your fireplace the centerpiece of your home by decorating the mantel for the season. Rotate in a fresh crop of family photos or add a pop of color with fresh or silk flowers.
• Spruce up your outdoor space. Turn your backyard into a new room. Grab some pretty and functional outdoor decor for stylish al fresco get-togethers.
• Spot-treat your white shoes. White shoes pretty much go with every outfit, but only if they stay that way. Making your Converse or Vans look like new will make you feel like a new person, too.
• Shop for new essentials. Whether you need to stock up on cleaning products or your bed is ready for new sheets , grab a notepad or your Notes app and take a lap around the house to see what you need.
• Give an old piece new life. Maybe you've got an old chair that never quite fit your style, or odds n' ends that could become a quirky new decoration. Go ahead, DIY it.
• Tackle a trouble spot. You know that corner that hasn't been organized since you moved in? Now's the time to turn it into a highlight of your home.

Outdoor activities to do when you're bored

• Head outside. Even if it's just to check the mail or take the dog around the block, a change of scenery can also change your outlook.
• Get lost in your hometown. Even if you think you know the area you live in like the back of your hand, there's probably a hidden gem or two right under your nose. Do a quick search for parks, walking tours or outdoor spaces near you — your new favorite spot could just be just around the corner.
• Set up a blanket and go stargazing. You don't have to wait for a meteor shower; dozens of constellations are visible on an average clear night.
• Go for a jog. Believe it or not, the sights and sounds of the great outdoors are even more beautiful when your endorphins are rushing.
• Light a campfire. Just don't forget the marshmallows for S'mores!
• Watch a movie outdoors. With a projector and a couple of blankets, you can change the scenery for your movie night. Pop some popcorn and snuggle up if it gets chilly for a romantic evening.
• Dine al fresco. Take your lunch to the backyard or patio to get a little vitamin D while you indulge. A glass of wine or a beer doesn't hurt either.
• Go for a long walk. Plan a route past your favorite landmarks, a local park or just around the neighborhood. Stop and smell the flowers – literally.
• Take your pet to the park. Whether you have a lively dog, an adventurous cat or even a sweet rabbit, they'll appreciate getting some fresh air with their favorite person.
• Start a garden. Roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty in the backyard or even your windowsill, if you don't have outdoor space. In addition to the de-stressing benefits, all that digging quickly turns into a workout.
• Go for a bike ride. Take a tour of your surroundings and get some exercise in by taking your bicycle out for a spin.
• Take a drive. You don't need a destination — just a great playlist and the open road.
• Hit the beach. Slather yourself in sunscreen, grab a beach towel and make your way to the shore for a day of fun in the sun. And don't be afraid to swing by in the colder months — the crashing waves are the picture of zen.
• Have a backyard camp out. Pitch a tent and see your outdoor space in a whole new way. Or if the weather isn't cooperating, do the same in your own living room.
• Go for a hike. Nature can be great medicine if you're feeling down about the world in general. Grab a pal, lace up your sturdy hiking boots and hit the trails.

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Life

A Potential 'Fire Country' Spinoff Is in the Works

Target's 2024 Car Seat Trade-In Event Returns

'Today' Fans Love Hoda's Rare IG of Daughter Hope

Kelly Ripa Has Thoughts About 'Titanic' on 'Live'

This '9-1-1' Star Pitched the 'Bachelor' Crossover

The Best Caribbean Resorts for Families

Best All-Inclusive Resorts Where Kids Stay Free

Watch a Clip from Erin Krakow's New Hallmark Movie

We Found the 20 Best Amazon Deals of April 2024

Who Won the 'Rock the Block' Exterior Challenge?

See Kelly Clarkson's "What Was I Made For?" Cover

Best Fredrik Backman Books To Read & Understand Life! 📚

Best Monster Books To Read And Get Thrilled! 📚

Best Hercule Poirot Books To Start Reading First! 🕵️‍♂️ 📚

Best Agatha Christie Audiobooks You Should Listen! 🕵️ 🎧

Best Book Depository Alternatives – 12 Affordable Sites! 📚

Best Books To Read When You Are Feeling Bored! 🔆 📚

• ⏳ [read_meter]

How long can you endlessly scroll down your social media feeds? When boredom hits hard, it’s pretty difficult to find anything interesting to do. You keep refreshing your feed only to see the same thing over and over again. And after a certain point, even looking at your phone’s screen makes you feel sick.

Best Books To Read When You Are BORED!

But don’t you worry; I will share some book recommendations that will save you from such mindless scrolling and boredom. These books/novels are some of my most favorite reads that kept me entertained throughout. And no, I am not going to talk about Harry Potter – not even once. However, reading the entire series all over again is not that bad an idea after all. But if you want to read something fresh and new, then you will love this list for sure. Now without any further delay, let’s jump into the recommendations right away.

1. Radio Silence by Alice Oseman

Radio Silence is every reader’s dream book. You dive into the book, and from the very first page, you are completely hooked. And in no time, you will end up reading quite a big chunk of the book. The story of Radio Silence revolves around Frances, Aled, and a podcast named “Universe City.” For those who are sick of reading quintessential romance novels, Radio Silence will be a breath of fresh air since it’s not a love story. Yes, you would expect it to turn into one, but the author makes it very clear at the beginning itself that Frances and Aled are not going to fall in love with each other. The book explores the beauty of platonic relationships and queerness. Interesting, isn’t it? You can get the book here! 📖

Recommended Reading For You! 📖 📚

2. Mrs Funnybones by Twinkle Khanna

This one is a perfect read for a bored soul who is not looking for anything intense. Mrs Funnybones, as the name suggests, is a funny and light read. Twinkle Khanna is so witty throughout the book that you will end up laughing out pretty loud, if not louder. She is so humorous that you are bound to feel light and relieved. Also, extra brownie points to Twinkle Khanna for making the book an easy and simple read. You can get the book here! 📖

3. Killing Commendatore by Haruki Murakami

Alright, the moment you see the thickness of the book, you are going to come at me like, ‘Why would you recommend us a dictionary?’ But listen to me, okay? The book may resemble a dictionary, but trust me when I say this – YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PUT THIS BOOK DOWN ONCE YOU START READING IT! Killing Commendatore is easily one of my favorite Murakami books. And you can easily trust Murakami. His books will never bore you, to say the least. You may like his books, or you may hate him to his bones, but you will never be bored. So, if you want to do something adventurous but are literally stuck at home, Killing Commendatore is the book for you, my friend. You can thank me later! You can read the full review here! 📖

4. American Gods by Neil Gaiman

If you love fantasy, fiction, and anything that’s a bit on the crazier side, then you should pick this book right now. If you are unsure because of the title of the book, then let me break it down for you. So, the protagonist of the novel is a man named Shadow. After he is released from prison, he is approached by a strange man named Mr. Wednesday, who offers him a job. And in no time, Shadow finds himself sucked in a weird and dangerous world of mythological characters and god knows what not.

I don’t know how Neil Gaiman could pull off this book because, honestly, it’s crazy. There are so many characters and so much happening throughout the book that I was just amazed. Oh, and did I tell you that there is Goddess Kali and Lord Ganesh in the book as well? So, are you still going to scroll down your Facebook feed or what? Go grab the book already! You can get the book here! 📖

5. Gun Island by Amitav Ghosh

I will not beat around the bush and tell you right away that Gun Island is a ridiculous book. I don’t know what Amitav Ghosh was thinking while writing this book. I guess he was confused, like an owl flying around the neighborhood in the middle of a bright tropical afternoon. The protagonist of the book is a man named Deenanath Dutta, nicknamed Deen (ridiculous, ikr!), who is a collector of rare books and runs a business around the same. So, he comes back to India for some business purpose and gets himself tangled in a strange storyline involving Manasha Devi, the goddess of snakes!

And just when you think that the book is going to be a mythological read, Amitav Ghosh throws themes of human trafficking, drug racket, terrorism, and climate change right at your face. So yes, the book is absolutely ridiculous, but oh-my-goodness trust me when I say this, Gun Island is one of the most interesting books that I have ever read. It’s so stupid that it’s actually brilliant. And before you sense the contradiction, let me tell you that human life is a contradiction itself, so might as well get yourself acquainted with it, eh? You can get the book here! 📖

6. Let It Snow by John Green

John Green is one of the most widely loved authors in the world. His novels The Fault in our Stars, Paper Towns, Looking for Alaska, and Turtles all the way down were loved by so many readers around the globe. His unconventional characters and unique storylines interest almost everyone. I highly recommend his book. He wrote “Let It Snow: Three Holiday Romances” along with two other authors (Maureen Johnson and Lauren Myracle). Especially if you are bored and want to read something fun, romantic, mushy, and chill, then this book will really impress you. You can get the book here! 📖

7. The Bookish Life of Nina Hill by Abbi Waxman

Nina Hill, the protagonist of the book, is so relatable that I can’t even begin to describe it. The story revolves around Nina, who is a bookworm and works at a library. But suddenly, she gets to know that her father, who she had never met in her life, has died and apparently has mentioned Nina’s name in his will. Nina then discovers her entire family, which includes brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews. This newfound information overwhelms her until she realizes that her family is interested in knowing her as well. Honestly, I loved the book to bits. The writing style is extremely fresh and will surely drag you out of boredom. You can get the book here! 📖

8. All Our Wrong Todays by Elan Mastai

If I get one such opportunity where I can get access to someone’s brain, I would definitely like to check out Elan Mastai’s brain. If you find the concept of time travels fascinating, then you will end up falling in love with this book. Now there are so many books on time travel, and they are all so amazing. But I feel this book is so freaking underrated. “All Our Wrong Todays” is a book about a guy whose father is a scientist working on a time travel project. Now, this guy is no genius, but since he is his genius father’s son, he has to become a chrononaut (time traveler) and be a part of the time travel project. And then he ends up messing everything up because of one small mistake. I promise you this book is so crazy that you will forget the concept of boredom! You can get the book here! 📖

9. If There’s No Tomorrow by Jennifer L. Armentrout

So, you are chilling on your couch, tired of watching car crash compilations on YouTube, and now you want to read something that won’t be too intense yet captivating enough. Well, in such a case, I highly recommend this book since it’s a pretty cool book that has really chilled-out characters too. The plot of this book revolves around Lena, who is pretty much in love with her best friend Sebastian (who is damn hot, by the way) and is also hiding a huge truth from him. She is scared that if she reveals her secret, then everyone, including Sebastian, will end up hating her. I personally found the book an easy and refreshing read. Not to mention, I was going through a terrible reading slump when I picked this book, and it helped. Yay! You can get the book here! 📖

10. Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

First of all, Elizabeth Gilbert is a badass. I love all her books, but this one is a bit too close to my heart. Eat Pray Love is a memoir wherein Elizabeth shares her story of exploring herself while searching for everything across Italy, India, and Indonesia. After being unhappy in her marriage and fighting pretty hard to get a divorce from her husband, she takes a trip around the world to discover new possibilities. I loved how honest she was throughout the book. She shares every bit of her vulnerabilities and heartbreaks. So, if you are looking for an intense read wherein you can explore emotions such as heartbreaks and healing, then this book is a must-read for you. And since you are anyway bored, then why not start reading it right now? You can get the book here! 📖

I hope these recommendations excited you enough to pick these books and read them. You see, the best way to battle boredom is to throw the book at it and smash the life out of it – not literally, though! Lol. Have you read any of these books? Let us know if we missed any of your favorite books as well! Happy Reading!

This article contains affiliate links. BookWritten may earn a commission when you buy using these links.

BookWritten Newsletter 📧 📖

Join 10,000 plus subscribers. Get updates about the best books to read, special content, and exclusive offers online! 📚

You might also like these!

Sneha Banerjee has been writing for half a decade now. She is also a professional copywriter and has worked for many businesses. She is a voracious reader, and her ultimate dream is to turn everyone into a reader.

Follow author

Let's discuss here - Share your thoughts and queries!

• Do You Have Any Questions or Thoughts? 💬

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

8 Expert Tips for When You’re SOOOO Bored 

Feeling bored is so...boring! So, if you’re out here Googling “what to do when bored HELP,” we got you. Even though boredom is a completely normal emotion that happens to all of us, one of the worst things about it is that it can usually make you feel other emotions that are even less fun, like loneliness or apathy. It can also bring on anxious thoughts , which is a thing I’m very familiar with. Let’s overthink the last convo you had with your boss! Let’s go over all the doctors’ appointments you have to make this year!  Not fun!

If we’re being technical, feeling bored means feeling weary or dissatisfied because you’re disinterested or tired of your environment, according to the American Psychological Association . But the reason we feel that type of way can vary. One theory is that doing a thing that’s too easy or too hard makes it tougher for us to pay attention, so our minds trail off, according to research in Psychological Review . If you’ve ever hated life while sifting through an Excel spreadsheet you’ve seen 1,000 times or if you can’t focus on an article you’re reading because it’s too difficult to understand (been there!), you get it. Another theory, per that same research, suggests that when you feel like what you’re doing (even if it’s doing nothing) has no point or isn’t meaningful, it could also cause boredom. 

Of course, your boredom might stem from both of these things happening at the same time—a lack of attention and feeling like whatever you're engaging in is pointless. It can also pop up in both day-to-day situations (like obligatory work shit) and in big picture stuff (like your feelings about your relationship). Basically, a lot of things can bore us.

Sometimes there’s nothing you can really do about boredom, like when you’re stuck at the dinner table while your dad’s telling a story you’ve heard before. It’s also possible that you literally don’t know why you’re bored. And if you notice you're not interested in doing things you used to love doing, this could be a sign of depression , says licensed psychologist Greg Welikson, PhD —in which case there isn’t a quick fix, and it might be a good idea to consider if you need therapy or medication . 

Those situations aside, if you’re out here feeling bored as hell in the middle of the workday or staring up at the ceiling on a Friday night, here’s what you can do to manage the meh-ness.

1. Do a boredom check-in.   

Honestly, it’s not always a good moment to get in touch with the origin of your boredom (deadlines are gonna deadline). But if you can make the time, you might get more clarity on what’s triggering it, says therapist Catharine Swain, LMFT . Are you bored at work or out with your partner? Why   do you think that is? Talk out these things in a voice memo on your phone or write them down when that blah feeling comes up. Then, in a few weeks or months, you can check back to see if there are any patterns, Swain suggests.

You can also use that intel to pinpoint what you could do about it. For example, if your job is regularly giving you major yawn vibes, maybe you’re not feeling challenged enough or you don’t have a sense of purpose . In those cases, maybe the solution could be talking to your boss about a promotion or looking for new gigs. 

2. Sit with the emotions that come up.

Like we said earlier, having the time and space to be bored, especially during the weekend (the worst!), often sucks because it allows for uncomfy thoughts and emotions (like anxiety or loneliness) to pop up. Whether you didn’t know these feelings were there or you’ve been actively trying to avoid them, naming those emotions can help you work through big feels that deserve your attention.

If you find yourself bored with some time on your hands, take a look at a feelings wheel . That can help you put words to whatever’s going on under the surface when you're sitting around, says Dr. Welikson. Then, do something that validates or explores those emotions, like journaling, listening to a sad bops playlist, or talking to someone supportive, he suggests.

3. Seek out some human interaction.

For a lot of us, boredom strikes when we’re by ourselves. That’s partially because humans are built to connect with other people. It gives us joy and energy. So when we don’t have those interactions in general or in a specific moment, life can feel boring, says Dr. Welikson. The obvious solution is making an effort to hang with or just say hi to someone. That can make you feel less alone, he says. Sure, you can call or text a friend, but you can also just go order a coffee from the shop down the street, suggests Dr. Welikson. Acquaintances are just as effective at curbing loneliness.

If you decide to reach out to someone you know, you don’t have to bring up how you’re feeling (though you can if you want). Just catch up on what you’ve been doing lately or talk about a fun memory you guys share, says Dr. Welikson. If you’re not sure what to say, he suggests asking these convo starters: 

• What’s been your best moment of the week so far?
• What’s been the worst moment of your week?
• What’s something cool or important you have coming up soon?

4. Get nostalgic. 

Again, if you’re in a moment where you have time, even if it’s just five minutes with your phone, you can take the edge off of your boredom by thinking about fun moments from your past. Research suggests that nostalgia can make boredom suck less because it reminds you that you’re important and your life has meaning. 

So scroll through your camera roll to find a fun trip you went on with friends or rewatch videos from your all-time fave concert, suggests Dr. Welikson. You can also sort through physical photos, tickets, or journal entries. However you do it, mementos from good times in your life can remind you you’re not alone and you matter, he says. 

5. Do something new. 

Maybe it’s a Saturday night in or another day in a job you’re not crazy about. Adding newness to that moment can help spark interest when you’re bored, says Swain.

If you’re home, maybe try that new noodle spot you’ve had your mind on or rearrange your furniture or bake something you’ve never baked before. If you’re in the middle of something kind of mindless, put on a podcast or playlist you’ve never heard. 

You can also take this strategy up a notch at work by asking for a new responsibility or shadowing someone who's got an interesting role. In your relationship, try asking your partner to tell you something they’ve never shared before or come up with a spontaneous date night idea. Boop yourself out of the same old, same old.

6. Do a thing you’ve been putting off.

To be fair, sometimes the idea of trying something new or even coming up with a new thing to do can feel hard when you’re bored. When that happens, focus your energy on a to-do list task you’ve been meaning to get done but haven’t, suggests Swain. Even something like putting that basket of clean laundry away or organizing your closet can shift your focus into problem-solving mode. You also might feel super satisfied afterward, which can boost your mood, she adds. Always a plus!

7. Change the stakes of whatever you’re doing.

When you’re in the middle of something soooo boring that needs to get done, like a homework assignment, a tedious spreadsheet situation, or a random chore, setting a timer can make it more of a challenge, helping you stay engaged, according to a 1992 study . Power through vacuuming in 15 minutes or challenge yourself to finish that office paperwork within 10 min and 13 secs of “ All Too Well (Taylor’s Version) .”

On the flip side, when the task at hand feels too hard to get through without your eyes glazing over, research suggests that separating that thing into simpler chunks can help. So, if you’re reading a super dense report for work, maybe go through a few pages at a time before taking a water break. 

8. Get creative.

Doing something that taps into your creativity can help you feel inspired and not as bored, says Swain. In fact, a survey of 924 people during the early stages of the Covid pandemic suggested that creativity amid lockdowns made people less bored because it gave them a sense of meaning (noticing a theme here?). So, draw, paint, write a song or a poem, choreograph a lil dance in your bedroom (we won’t judge!), or make a vision or mood board. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself! It’s just for fun—which is the opposite of boredom.

Wondermind does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a replacement for medical advice. Always consult a qualified health or mental health professional with any questions or concerns about your mental health.

Sign up for our newsletter to get expert advice and candid convos delivered right to your inbox

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

• LISTEN & FOLLOW
• Apple Podcasts
• Google Podcasts
• Amazon Music

Your support helps make our show possible and unlocks access to our sponsor-free feed.

Boredom in the Age of Information Overload

It sneaks up on us while we're sitting in traffic, or waiting at the doctor's office, or doing our taxes — boredom, that restless feeling of dissatisfaction that arises when we harbor "the desire for desires," as Leo Tolstoy said. At the same time, we're living in an age of never-ending stimulation, all at our fingertips — texting, social media, 24-hour news, and streaming galore. But despite this constant content consumption, we're still getting bored — maybe even more so than ever. We find ourselves hopping from tab to tab, scrolling through Instagram while watching a show, tuning out of meetings to check our email. And now some researchers are worried that all this stimulation could be changing our brains. On this rebroadcast episode, we look at boredom in the age of information overload, and whether or not it's really good for us and our brains. We hear stories about what happened when two reporters quit their digital addictions for four weeks, a monk who took his search for boredom to the ultimate extreme, and why there's value to the slow pace of baseball.

111 Fun Things To Do When You're Bored

There is a fine line between the delight in having nothing to do and the absolute nightmare of having nothing to do. If you lean more towards the feeling of boredom, you know how excruciating it can feel to have “nothing to do.”

Dr. Raffaello Antonino , a licensed psychologist and senior lecturer at London Metropolitan University, has ADHD. While this can make boredom even more challenging, there’s no such thing as a “cure for boredom,” and there isn’t a need for one, either. 

“Boredom is a signal from our brains telling us that what we’re currently engaged in isn’t satisfying our need for stimulation or interest,” Antonino told Good Good Good. “Instead of viewing it as an enemy, we can see boredom as an opportunity — a kind of internal nudge — to explore new things and flex our creativity.”

Antonino encourages folks to find activities that are novel, challenging, and activate different parts of the brain. Or, he says, you can also learn to sit with the boredom, too, and embrace it as ‘just another stimulus from our brain.”

If you’re trying to find something interesting to do, here are some ideas for the next time you need to beat the boredom.

By the way, some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Fun ideas for when you need something to do —

Things to do at home.

• Read. Yeah, we know it sounds dull, but a good book truly does transcend time, space, and boredom. Check out our best book recommendations .  ‍
• Do a jigsaw puzzle. We’ve got the corner pieces!  ‍
• Take a nap. Contrary to what you might think, sometimes we feel bored because we’re exhausted and don’t quite know what to do with ourselves. Allow us to tell you: Go to bed.  ‍
• Play with your pet. Teach that old dog new tricks, spend 30 minutes convincing your cat why cuddling with you is a good idea, or stare at that beautiful home aquarium until you feel like The Little Mermaid.  ‍
• Assemble a care package for someone in need. From care packages for folks experiencing homelessness to a little boost of moral support for a friend who’s going through it, this is a great activity that does a little good in the process! ‍
• Take an online class. You can find all kinds of fun how-to videos on YouTube — or get fancy with it and try out a whole course on MasterClass!  ‍
• Listen to a podcast. There is very little in the world as exciting as when your emotional support podcast puts out a new episode. Turn it up and turn the rest of the world down.  ‍
• Listen to an audiobook. If you love books but want a new format, definitely give audiobooks a try !  ‍
• Practice learning a new language. There are plenty of apps and resources out there that make learning a new language easy. Practice your vocab words and transport yourself to a totally different culture right from your couch.  
• Intentionally listen to that vinyl collection. Don’t let those Taylor Swift records collect dust! Turn up the speaker and spin that plastic.  ‍
• Find a new documentary to watch. You’re more than welcome to stream a docu-series about cults or true crime, but we’d also recommend some educational docs about climate change and water !  ‍
• Make some fun cocktails (or mocktails!). Now entering your mixology era. ‍
• Try a food competition show-inspired meal, making something tasty from items you already have at home. You have no judges to impress, so just trust the process! ‍
• Dance along to a YouTube tutorial. In the comfort of your own home, with no prying eyes, try out a TikTok dance, or learn a little choreography from a fun YouTube tutorial. It’s time to dance, because, literally no one is watching.  ‍
• Whip out a deck of conversation cards to explore with your partner or roommate. Sometimes being bored is also a symptom of not knowing what to talk about. Use some helpful conversation cards to guide meaningful discussions with some of the people you care about most.  ‍
• Take an online bystander intervention training . This is a great act of solidarity for your community and an awesome way to feel safe and empowered IRL!  ‍
• Add all the special awareness months and holidays to your calendar. You’ll impress everyone when you’re the first to wish a happy World Wildlife Day on March 3 — just saying. ‍
• Cuddle a pet or loved one. If the nap wasn’t enough, just spend the rest of the day snug as a bug. 

Creative ideas to beat boredom

• Reach for the coloring book. I can smell the fresh pack of crayons already.  
• Try a new artistic medium. Watercoloring, sculpting with clay, collaging, wood-working — you name it! ‍
• Play a musical instrument. If you’re proficient in a musical instrument, you’re set. But this is also a great opportunity to try to learn something new — perhaps start with the ukulele or recorder!  ‍
• Sing solo karaoke. You don’t need a fancy machine to work on those pipes. Pull up a karaoke recording of your favorite tunes on YouTube, and sing the night away.  ‍
• Write a short story. We’re not asking you to write the next great American novel — but maybe you have a story to share with the world, and now is your moment.  ‍
• Dye an article of clothing. Whether you’re tie-dying a T-shirt or giving a new life to an old garment, we’re always supportive of a good dye job.  ‍
• Start a sewing or clothing repair project. That being said, you can also grab a needle and thread and do some fun clothing repair (or upcycling!) projects that way, too.  ‍
• Scrapbook some old photos or artifacts. Do you have a collection of Polaroids and old movie tickets you’re not sure what to do with? Start scrapbooking!  ‍
• Make a playlist for each of your friends. Text your friends, ask them for a feeling and a favorite artist, and go to town making a themed playlist with some tracks they’re sure to love.  ‍
• Create a family cookbook. Do you have beloved recipes that have been passed down through generations? Now is the time to digitize them! Check out the Family Cookbook Project and start your own priceless keepsake.  ‍
• Upcycle an old piece of furniture. Whether you thrift an old piece of furniture or get crafty with an item you already have, this is a great project that will have your space feeling fresher and fancier in no time.  ‍
• Make a zine. Zines are a free and creative way to express yourself! Learn more about zines and how to make one.  ‍
• Pick up a screen-free hobby. Think of something you can do with your phone completely hidden away. Rollerblading? Fiber arts? Interior design? The possibilities are endless! (Check out our list of hobbies for women !) ‍
• Read the Goodnewspaper , a publication filled with good news and action items in your mailbox each month. It’ll make you feel hopeful and empowered to do more good. ‍
• Knit or crochet. Raise those knitting needles and crochet hooks and get ready to craft to your heart’s content.  ‍
• Create mood boards or dream boards on Pinterest. Pinterest has got to be the most wholesome and soothing scroll online these days. Spend some time scouring through some good vibes, and I don’t know, planning your 90th birthday party. 

Self-care activities for stress relief

• Do a low-impact workout. No one’s asking you to run a marathon. Consider a brisk walk, a few minutes on an elliptical, or even lifting some small free weights to get the blood pumping. No matter what, choose a movement that makes you feel good, not something that adds shame or guilt to your day. ‍
• Plan your meals for the week. If you’re sick of dining solely on Lunchables and frozen meals from Trader Joe’s (this is a self call-out), spend some of your downtime jotting down some meal ideas for the week. (Plus, this helps reduce food waste !)  ‍
• Paint your nails. Give yourself the full at-home mani-pedi treatment — we dare you.  ‍
• Try a new hairstyle. Do not take this as advice to cut your own bangs. I just mean, like, do a fun updo or braid pattern.  ‍
• Follow a makeup tutorial. There are countless makeup tutorials on YouTube that will help you feel creative and confident next time you step up to the mirror. Give one a go!  ‍
• Journal. Whether you need a place to brain dump, or you’re looking for a guided journaling experience, give your mind a space to wander. (Here are some top picks for our favorite self-care journals !) ‍
• Meditate. Ah, yes, the radical acceptance of doing nothing — perhaps the most challenging task on this list. Try a meditation app or guided meditation recording online, and see where the wave takes you.  ‍
• Update your resume. Your future self will thank you.  ‍
• Balance your finances. Again, your future self will thank you.  ‍
• Clean out your email inbox. Your future self will actually thank you so much for this one.  ‍
•  Practice yoga. This is a job for Adriene and Benji ! Turn on a video of your favorite at-home yoga instructors and lean into a big stretch.  ‍
• Give yourself a massage. Whether you just gently massage your muscles with a free hand, or you commit fully to an electric massaging device, something tells me the tension in your shoulders needs somewhere else to go.  ‍
• Do some living room exercise while you watch TV. Simple sit-ups, leg lifts, or even “happy baby” poses are a great way to stimulate your body and mind when you’re watching yet another “Love Island” binge.  ‍
• Wash your makeup brushes. We don’t need to talk about how long it’s been. But it’s time.  ‍
• Take an “everything shower.” Shave, shampoo, condition, exfoliate, repeat!  ‍
• Make yourself a “self-care kit.” Next time you’re feeling overwhelmed or at a loss for your self-care routine, one of these kits will come in handy — trust us! Learn more about assembling a self-care kit (and what to include in yours). 

Fun ways to organize your home

• Clean out your closet. Gather those items that are no longer sparking joy and have a little garage sale or clothing swap. If that sounds like too much work, you can also donate your old clothes or send them to be recycled in a Take Back Bag . ‍
• Organize your linens. Whether it’s a whole closet or an under-the-bed storage container, we’re sure your bedding and towels need organizing.  ‍
• Create labels for your pantry. This is your chance to channel all the clear-storage-bin influencers on TikTok. Use some storage bins you already have, grab some colorful washi tape or a fancy grown-up label maker, and go to town! ‍
• Rearrange your furniture. As labor-intensive as it may be, switching up the vibes of your home can be a huge energy cleanser. Even just swapping the couch and coffee table can make a huge difference. ‍
• Do a big deep clean in one room in the house. Make it a game! How quickly can you scrub the toilet, sink, and shower?  ‍
• Color-code your bookshelf. Or organize them alphabetically. It’s your life and your personal library — make it unique to you! ‍
• Decorate your walls. Do you have a collection of art prints you’ve been neglecting to hang up? Or maybe you have some professional photos you can finally print (on eco-friendly paper, of course) and display. Create a space that feels true to you! ‍
• Reorganize your fridge (and clean out the yucky stuff all the way in the back). We know, it’s the worst. But you deserve fresh produce (and no more smelly condiment stains). ‍
• Clean out the infamous junk drawer or “doom room.” You do not have to rid yourself of the junk drawer by any means, but maybe you can make it a little less overwhelming, or add in some organizers to keep things tidy.  ‍
• Sweep, mop, and vacuum the floors. If you’re anything like me, you are not at all regimented with your floor cleaning — even with a shedding pet. Set aside some time to sweep, mop, vacuum — or heck, even dust the baseboards. ‍
•  Create a new chore chart or system. The aforementioned “not at all regimented” habit is one I’d like to kick. If you find yourself feeling the same way, consider making a new chore chart or daily calendar to help you keep up with those pesky care tasks.  ‍
• Do a clean-up task you’ve been putting off. Pesky care tasks. They just never end, huh? Pick one you’ve been putting off and get ’er done! ‍
• Shred or organize old documents. First, consider changing your preferences to only get electronic bills or bank statements. Next, file those babies away or shred what you no longer need. ‍
• Wipe down all your countertops and door handles. Remember when we used to use disinfectant wipes on all our groceries at the height of the pandemic? Channel that energy and clean some surfaces that might be neglected.  ‍
• Refill or top off your reusable containers. Whether you’re refilling your soap dispensers or topping off the olive oil dispenser, these little check-ins are a lovely gift to your future self (or anyone you share your home with!). ‍
• Water your plants. If you’ve got a lot of plant babies around, spend some time tending to them. Give ’em a little drink, pluck out those dead leaves, and speak those sweet nothings. ‍
• Do some laundry (like the sheets and towels). Laundry seems to be a never-ending pile of dirty-to-clean-to-dirty-again clothes. If you don’t have a system in place, consider washing your sheets and towels today!

Ideas for activities when you’re stuck inside

• Play a board game. Rally your people for a Scrabble tournament, channel your inner evil billionaire for a game of Monopoly, or topple those Jenga blocks with pride. ‍
• Bake a delicious treat (or two). To be fair, no one ever needs an excuse to pop a fresh batch of chocolate chip cookies in the oven. Get that apron and experiment with a new recipe. ‍
• Complete a crossword puzzle. What’s an eight-letter phrase for something you should never stop celebrating? GOODNEWS. ‍
• Download a new game on your phone. Not that anyone needs additional screen time, but Candy Crush or Temple Run are surefire ways to beat boredom.  ‍
• Settle in with some Sudoku. If you need us, we’ll be nose-deep in a huge book of Sudoku or the Good Sudoku app . ‍
• Play a card game like Go-Fish or Solitaire. There’s honestly a card game for every occasion. Alone or with a group, let’s get shuffling. ‍
• Build a fort. Couch cushions, blankets, and throw pillows beware! It’s time to channel your inner architect. ‍
• Have a movie marathon. Watch your favorites or make it a themed marathon with rom-coms, horror films, or even some Wes Anderson classics.  ‍
• Tune into a comfort show. There is no such thing as rewatching “Parks & Recreation” too many times.  ‍
• Write letters to loved ones. Whip out your adorable stationery , grab some stamps, and send some snail mail to those dearest to you.  ‍
•  Call your mom (or any other loved one or friend). She worries.  ‍
• Play video games. Hey, you don’t have to be a teenage boy to “hit the Griddy” in Fortnite. (Or, you know, cuddle up with your Switch and play Animal Crossing.) ‍
• Have an indoor picnic. Lay out a blanket, prepare a tasty meal, and enjoy a change of scenery while you snack.  ‍
• Make a charcuterie board. Whether you’re eating said charcuterie board during said indoor picnic, or it’s just a beautiful display of your favorite snacks, you deserve a little moment of luxury.  ‍
• Listen to albums from Rolling Stones’ list of “ The Greatest 500 Albums of All Time .” How many can you stream in a day? ‍
• Go on a Google Earth field trip. Pick any spot on the map and explore right from the comfort of your own home.  ‍
• Pick one topic and do a deep-dive on Wikipedia. Better yet, use a random word generator online and learn everything you can about that subject.  ‍
• Have a classic tea party. We’re talking pinkies up, people.  ‍
• Work on a wish list or do some virtual “window shopping.” You don’t need to be getting married or having a kiddo to make a gift registry! Start window shopping and save your favorites for any upcoming holidays. ‍
• Take a virtual museum tour. Lots of classic museums now have virtual collections so you can experience the magic of, say, the Museum of Natural History , from anywhere in the world. ‍
• Stream a handful of TED Talks . There are truly so many experts with so many brilliant ideas! Check out a seemingly endless library of TED Talks online — more specifically, 4,200 TED Talks. ‍
• Ring the fish doorbell . Volunteer to protect freshwater fish in the Netherlands by watching a livestream and ringing the “fish doorbell” when they swim by.

Outdoor activities to fight boredom

• Ride your bike. Whether you like to ride your bike for leisure, or you use it to commute without a car , there’s no denying the joy of breezing through the wind on two wheels.  ‍
• Create chalk drawings. Bet’cha can’t write your name in bubble letters as fast as we can! ‍
• Play schoolyard games like hopscotch, Red Rover, or Four Square. Recess is in session, y’all. ‍
• Go for a hike. Lace up your boots and try a new trail in your area. ‍
• Take your dog for a walk. Let them remind you to stop and smell the flowers (or the butts).  ‍
• Landscape your yard. Is your yard looking a little shabby? Take some time to rake leaves , weed your garden, or care for your lawn . (Or … just ditch your lawn entirely .) ‍
• Go to the library and check out something new. And we’re not just talking about books, people. See what kind of nontraditional items your library offers for checkout!  ‍
• Go star-gazing. Go somewhere untouched by light pollution and enjoy the expanse of a starry night sky. Can you spot any constellations?  ‍
• Clean up litter in a local park or beach. Partner with a local clean-up organization or get your own litter clean-up kit and commit a couple of hours to keeping your community beautiful.  ‍
• Bring a book and a hammock outside. Just make sure you’re responsibly pitching your hammock outdoors.  ‍
•  Pitch a tent in the backyard. Get your camping gear and plan an adventure right in your own backyard — bonus points for indoor plumbing a short walk away! ‍
• Go camping. You could “rough it” for real.  ‍
• Go for a drive with the windows down. Turn up your tunes and take a drive on a scenic route.  ‍
• Hit the skate park. Grab your skateboard or rollerblades and practice those kick flips, baby! ‍
• Visit a dog park. If you’re not feeling the vibe of a long walk with your dog, you can take them to a nearby dog park. (This is also a good time for extra dog pets, too.) ‍
• Play catch. Put your baseball glove and balls to good use! Work on your pitching and catching skills — or even play a casual game with your crew. ‍
• Go for a swim. Wanna play mermaids?  ‍
• Plant native seeds in public areas in your town. Grab some wildflower or native grass seeds and sprinkle those babies in your community for some all-natural pollination.  ‍
• Go on a geocaching adventure. Download the Geocaching app and explore parts of your community in ways you’ve never seen before. ‍
• Plan a scavenger hunt. Are you a sucker for a good mystery? Put together some clues and plan a scavenger hunt for a friend. ‍
• Forage. This is a great way to connect with nature and find some (free!) food in nature. Not sure how to get started? Check out this beginner’s guide to foraging .  ‍ ‍
• Take up bird or wildlife watching. Break out the binoculars , babe. Whether you’re all-in on bird migration season, or you’re a fiend for tracking wildlife in the iNaturalist app , this is a fun and engaging way to connect to the beauty of Mother Nature.

Give your brain a little boost next time you’re bored.

Article Details

13 Ways To Celebrate Earth Month (2024)

April: Awareness Months & Holidays for Causes (2024)

102 Best Random Acts of Kindness Ideas

101 Self-Care Ideas — Beyond the Clichés

Want to stay up-to-date on positive news.

The best email in your inbox. Filled with the day’s best good news.

• About Good Good Good
• Privacy Policy & Terms
• Take Action
• Subscriber Account
• Affiliate Program

Join the Good News Community

97 Things to Do When You're Bored

Katie Sweeney is an experienced food and lifestyle journalist with 15 years of experience. Having begun her career at PopSugar, Sweeney took a brief hiatus to serve as the personal chef to the family of then-Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom. Her work can also be found in SFist, Eater, and Haute Living SF.

• University of California, Berkeley

It's a fact of life that when we get a little bit of downtime, sometimes we struggle to know what to do with it. The books on our nightstand don't seem interesting, nothing looks good on Netflix, and we've already called all of our friends to catch up. What's left to do?

The good news is that there are plenty of ways to make those moments of respite more meaningful, more productive, or at the very least, more fun. To encourage you to say bye to your boredom, we've come up with a list of 97 things you can do when you're bored.

Jiaqi Zhou / LiveAbout

Go On a Walk

Yes, we know you don't always want to leave your apartment, but we promise it's good for you. Challenge yourself to leave your cell phone in your purse or pocket and focus on taking in the nature instead. Soak in some vitamin D and enjoy the people watching.

Pick an Area of Your Home to Organize

Whether you're looking to take on a huge organizational project like your closet or something sma

ller and more manageable like your underwear drawer, your pantry, or that crowded bookshelf, you'll feel amazing when your home is neat and tidy. Before you throw clothes or old furniture out, check and see if anything can be donated to a worthy cause.

Do Your Laundry

It's not the most fun chore to do, but let's face it, it's not a bad option when you're bored. You’ll thank us later when you have clean clothes, sheets and towels to choose from this week.

DIY a Meditation Corner

When you have nothing to do, why not learn to meditate? Grab some pillows, turn on your diffuser, and pick a meditation to try on the Calm app . When you have a special place to practice, you might actually stay committed to the practice.

Practice Yoga

A few deep breaths and several rounds of sun salutations are an awesome way to distract your mind from boredom. Roll out your yoga mat and do some stretches at home, or just sit and practice deep breathing. 

For a great stretch, try yin yoga and for something more athletic, look for a free power yoga class online.

Tackle the New York Times Sunday Crossword

LeChatNoir/Getty Images

The notoriously tricky puzzle will take at least an hour to complete, if you promise not to look up the answers as you go. If you're feeling confident, fill it out in pen, but don't worry, we usually use pencil.

Unsubscribe From Emails

How do our inboxes get so big? Unsubscribe from all of your spam emails in just a few clicks by visiting Unroll.me and finally achieve inbox zero.

Paint Your Nails

Everyone has a few colors stashed around the house. Grab your favorite and give yourself a manicure. Throw in some filing and buffing to really get the full experience.

Make Sure You're Registered to Vote

Save yourself the headache later by heading to vote.org to make sure you're set for the polls. If you've moved lately or are no longer registered, you can register online. You can also sign up for election reminders so you'll never miss a primary.

Recycle Old Candles

Did you finally finish your Le Labo Santal candle? Don't toss it. Scoop out any leftover wax, remove the wick, give it a quick wash, and use it to corral pens, makeup, or any other trinkets you may have.

Practice Your Latte Skills

Finally put that milk frother you got for Christmas a few years ago to use. Whip up some milk of your choosing (regular, skim, oat, almond, whatever!) and try to emulate the latte art of your favorite barista.

Strengthen Your Brain

Whether you grab a crossword, a Sudoku book, or just plan on practicing your general knowledge for the next trivia night, taking a few minutes for brain games will do your whole body good. For a group activity, get your trivia team together to practice in person or over Zoom, so you'll feel confident next round.

Change Up Your Décor

Afro Bohemian Living  

And you don't even have to spend a dime, we promise.   Restyle your coffee table, move the pillows on your couch to your bedroom, and swap your dining chairs with your kitchen chairs. See? Whole new aesthetic.

Work Your Way Through a Cookbook

Just like regular books, we sometimes gather cookbooks that do nothing but collect dust on our shelves. End the cycle today by cooking your way through one à la Julie & Julia . If you're not ready to take on Mastering The Art of French Cooking , start small with a more millennial-friendly pick.

FaceTime a Friend or Family Member

You may text them all the time but there's something much more satisfying about seeing their face. Plus you know things won't get lost in translation if you're chatting face to face rather than over email and text. Dial them up!

Update Your Résumé

Even if you’re not in the market for a new job, make sure it’s up to date. Add in some recent accomplishments and update your personal website with new information. Remember that future employers love to see tangible numbers — think about how you've impacted your company's success and translate that info to your résumé or cover letters.

Send a Handwritten Note

Everyone loves snail mail (that isn't a bill anyway). Pick up some pretty stationery and pen a quick card to someone you're missing. They'll appreciate the kind gesture and you might just make a pen pal in the process.

Start Watching the Best Movies of All Time

The American Film Institute has a list of the 100 greatest movies of all time — how many have you seen? If your knowledge of classic film leaves a little to be desired, stream a film or two from this list.

Try Your Hand at Painting

We promise it's fun. Find a paint-by-numbers print you like or just grab a canvas and some fun colors (abstract is always in). When you’re finished, you'll have instant statement-making art for your walls.

We're guessing that you might be a little tense if you're working from a desk all day. Try a few easy stretches like downward dog and some simple supine twists to give your muscles some relief. Bonus points if they target your lower back.

Take a Bath

But make it a ritual. Light some candles, turn on your favorite music, and use your fanciest products (like that bath bomb you've been meaning to try). Hey, you could even pour yourself a glass of wine, we're not judging.

Recreate Your Favorite Restaurant Meal

Sure, you could always order takeout, but isn't it more satisfying to make something yourself? If you've found yourself craving your favorite steak frites from that fancy French place downtown, try to find a recipe to make it online. You might surprise yourself (and come up with your new dinner party menu).

Pickle Some Vegetables

No, you don't have to have a lot of tools to make your own pickles (or pickled red onions or any pickled vegetable really). All you need is a container, some vegetables, vinegar, salt, sugar and, if you want, some spices. Throw your pickled veggies on salads, in ramen, or just enjoy them as a snack.

Make Coffee Ice Cubes

If you're an iced coffee fiend, stop your morning brew from getting watered down by using leftover coffee to make ice cubes instead of water. Just freeze your leftover coffee from this morning — it's that simple.

Research Places to Volunteer

The next time you start to feel bored, give back to the community with your time and energy. If you'd rather volunteer virtually, visit Catchafire.org to find a project that you can help with from the comfort of home. Whether you're skilled in web design or research, you can be matched up to a non-profit in need of pro bono work.

Clean Out Your Closet

We know you have clothes and shoes in there you haven't worn in years. Take everything out, and then make keep, sell, and donate piles. You may even be inspired to make new outfits when you can finally see everything you own easily.

Paint an Accent Wall

Or the kitchen cabinets. Or the back of your bookshelf. Whatever paint project you've been putting off, now is the time to tackle it.

Actually Read the Books You Were Assigned in High School

Bespoke Only

Whether you were a SparkNotes devotee or just didn't get a chance to read everything you wanted to, it's time to revisit some of those classics. You may find them more interesting now that you're older.

Plan a Party

Life is too short not to plan parties, even if they are months away from happening. Can't think of a good reason to throw one? Some of our favorites include celebrating a great new cocktail recipe, a promotion, or just because your apartment is clean and you want to show it off.

Take a Power Nap

If you've had a stressful week, there's nothing like a quick 30 minutes nap to get you back on track. Catch up on your sleep now and reap the benefits.

Write Down a Few Love Notes

Tuck them in your significant other’s coat pockets or bags. It'll be a nice surprise for them to know how much you care. And you might just get a love note back in return!

Put Together a Care Package

If you know a friend is going through a rough time (like a breakup or tough month at work), put together a few of their favorite things and leave it on their doorstep. We love to include a luxurious candle, some homemade baked goods, and a magazine or two.

That adult coloring book you got for Christmas? Break it out and channel your inner child with markers or crayons. Or go old school with plain paper and colored pencils — instant fridge art.

Wash Your Windows

When was the last time you washed your windows? Can’t remember? Grab the Windex and paper towels, and wash them now. You'll be amazed at how dirty they get over the years.

Listen to Music

Hello World/Getty Images

For a dose of nostalgia, play your favorite music videos from the '90s or early '00s and recreate the choreography you used to know so well. Nothing but good vibes in your home.

Start Binging That Show on Your List

It’s perfectly okay to unwind in front of the television. Finally get started on that Netflix show everyone's been talking about. If you finish the whole season in a few days, even better.

Stay Informed

Get caught up on the news of the world and your town. Go to theSkimm , The New York Times and your local sites to see what's going on.

Install Removable Wallpaper

Feeling uninspired by your décor? Throw up some removable wallpaper for a low-commitment, totally reversible look. Some of our favorite places to add wallpaper include powder rooms, living room accent walls, and the back of bookshelves.

Get Lost on Pinterest

Not sure how to tuck an oversized sweater into your midi skirt? Need a theme for your 30th birthday party? Thinking about painting your kitchen chairs? Pinterest is full of ideas — see what inspires you.

Start a Garden

Even if you don’t have any outdoor space, plant some herbs or succulents on your window sill. You'll save some money when a recipe calls for fresh herbs, plus your home will smell great.

Write in Your Journal

Write down what’s going on in your life and how you’re feeling at this moment. List five things you're grateful for each day. Studies have shown that this practice reduces mental distress and anxiety, and can lead you to feel more resilient and social .

Whip up a batch of chocolate chip cookies, ricotta orange pound cake, or banana bread. Or try your hand at something more intense like a crepe cake or soufflé. No worries if it doesn't turn out the way you had hoped, you'll have a great story either way.

Try a New Workout

Chriselle Lim

Always wanted to try kickboxing but never actually got up the courage to go to a class? Try your hand at an online workout from the comfort of your own home. YouTube offers everything from Zumba to HIIT.

Start Learning a New Language

Yes, you can. Buy an introductory textbook and get started by reviewing a chapter per day. Or download an app like Duolingo that will remind you to practice.

Learn Something New

Or something that you knew at one point but forgot. Use your Google skills to learn about which wines pair best with seafood, how to use Photoshop, or who's trending in the world of fine art.

Do a Puzzle

They really help the time pass by and give your brain a workout too. Start with an easy 100-piece puzzle and work your way up to the trickier 1,000 piece puzzle. We prefer a glass of wine while we work on ours, but up to you.

Find a Podcast You Love

Your morning commute will thank us. Download a bunch of episodes, and binge them. We're currently obsessed with Armchair Expert and How I Built This .

List your goals, the things you look for in a partner, dishes you want to learn how to make, clothes you’d like to buy for the spring season, places you’d like to visit, and more. Refer to these lists in the future.

Blast your favorite song and get your groove on. If singing is more your thing, turn up your most beloved hits (we're thinking something in the range of Whitney Houston or Beyoncé), and belt it out at the top of your lungs.

Clean Out Your Medicine Cabinet

We know, we know, it's not the most fun activity, but let's face it, it needs to be done. Toss old makeup, dispose of expired prescriptions properly, and give it all a good wipe down before you restock.

Call a Relative and Get an Old Family Recipe to Try

In my family, we have an absolutely killer party mix recipe. Each family member puts their own spin on it, but it's a great recipe to know in a pinch to take to a dinner party or get together. Play around and see how you can make a timeless recipe your own.

Create a Home Office

Design: Cathie Hong Interiors

Whether you have a room to yourself or your only extra space is in a spare closet, you can transform that space into a work station. Invest in a great desk, drawer organizers and plenty of artwork to create the office of your WFH dreams.

Make an Inventory of Your Things

Catalogue your linen closet, entertaining supplies, or any other collections you may keep, like your handbags or shoes. Write down where you stored your holiday decorations and dinner party dishware. Use the organizational maps to find things quickly later on.

Run That Errand You’ve Been Putting Off For Months

Take the boots that need new heels to your shoe guy. Sell the old vacuum that’s been sitting in your hallway on Craigslist already. Finally drop your clothes off at the dry cleaner.

Go to the Library

Cooking, decorating, historical fiction—find a section of books that you enjoy, check out a few, and take them home to read. Some libraries even offer free e-book downloads with your library card.

Read a Book That's Been Sitting On Your Shelves

If you're in the habit of buying the entire New York Times bestseller list, but never read them, you're not alone. Grab a book from your shelf and read the first chapter. Or start that classic— The Great Gatsby , Pride and Prejudice , or The Catcher in the Rye — you’ve been meaning to read forever.

Go to a Garden

Most cities have some sort of public garden, many of which are free to the pubic. Seek out a rose, botanical, or produce garden in your area, and go be one with nature.

Plan Your Next Trip

Westend61/Getty Images

Itching to travel? Now's the time to do the research. No matter where you'd like to travel, spend some time looking up the best hotels, activities, and restaurants in the area.

Make Flower Arrangements

Go to your local grocery or farmer's market and buy a bunch of affordable blooms in your favorite color. Arrange them in vases, and then enjoy the flowers in your home for the next week.

Look Up the Best Restaurants in Your Neighborhood

We know you've been meaning to check out that new spot you pass on the way to work every day, but we're betting there are some other fantastic restaurants you've yet to try in your area. Make a list of the ones you'd like to hit and start crossing them off.

Meal Plan For the Week

If you've got the time, you might as well make your life easier. Research easy recipes to make this week and your breakfast, lunch, dinner, and leftovers are covered. Plus you'll save a little dough by eating in.

Become a Plant Parent

Add some greenery to your home with an easy-to-care for plant for beginners. We recommend snake plants, succulents, or ZZ plants for those without green thumbs.

If you have pets, be sure to research cat-friendly and dog-friendly varieties before you commit to becoming a plant parent.

Totally Redo Your Living Room (Virtually)

Ready for a change? Try a virtual design site like Modsy or Havenly . They'll pair you with a designer who can help you reimagine your space. The best part is the whole process is done online — just fill out a questionnaire and send some photos of your home.

Start Watching Oscar-Nominated Films Before the Academy Awards

You'll have a leg up when filling out a ballot at your Oscar party. Plus the host's jokes are a lot funnier when you get the references.

Hang a Gallery Wall

Design: Jess Bunge for EHD , Photo: Sara Tramp

We love leaning art as much as the next person, but there's something super satisfying about well-organized hanging art. Mix and match frames, prints, and colors for a one-of-a-kind statement that feels like you.

Online Shop

Search for that rug, mirror, shower curtain, or clock you’ve been thinking about getting for months. Keep looking until you find the perfect deal; then order it.

Offer to Help a Friend in Need

Bring over dinner, help clean their house, or just simply listen to what’s going on in their world. They'll appreciate the help.

Perfect Your Go-To Cocktail

Research how to make your preferred drink, get the ingredients, and make it at home. Don't forget to add the garnishes like a lemon twist or three olives. Serve them at your next dinner party.

Sign Up For a Class

Improv, calligraphy, hip-hop, tennis, learn something you always wanted to try. Commit to attending at least five sessions before you give up.

Clean Your Makeup Brushes

It’s a bad idea to not clean your makeup brushes regularly, so grab them and dunk them in a large cup filled with warm soapy water. Let soak for an hour or two; then rinse under cold water until the water runs clean. Let them air-dry on a clean towel.

Go Through the Photos On Your Phone

Delete anything you don’t need. Sort, using the favorite button, and make a note of the images you want to print and frame.

Make the Perfect Cheeseboard

Cheeseboard Queen

A crowd favorite, making an incredible cheeseboard takes patience and practice. First, mix flavors and textures (like brie, gruyere, and bleu), then add some cured meats, a touch of produce, then nuts, seeds, and crackers, and finish it off with dips and fresh herbs.

Have a Spa Day

Take a long, luxurious bath. Try a hair mask you've been holding on to and put on a face mask or two. Finish the day by painting your nails and indulging in some aromatherapy.

Join a Recreational Sports Team

Many cities have dodgeball, kickball, softball, or basketball groups that meet weekly. It’s a great way to meet new people and stay active. Look for one in your area.

Book a Reservation at a Trendy Restaurant

Even if the only one you can get is three months out, mark your calendar, invite friends, and make a celebratory night of it. Plus the farther away the reservation is, the more time you have to shop for the perfect outfit beforehand.

Browse Listings Looking For Your Dream House

Note what features you like (or don't like) about each home, so you can get an idea of what you're looking for. Then make a financial plan to get yourself there.

Research Rescue Animals Online

Find a shelter in your neighborhood and see if it has any animals you might want to add to your family. Make sure you're ready for the commitment before you adopt.

Go Thrift Shopping or Antiquing

Mandy Cheng Design

Take advantage of cool vintage stores in your area for one-of-a-kind goods and statement-making pieces. Look for handmade rugs, unique tchotchkes, and art. Be sure to examine each item carefully for damage before purchasing.

Visit a Distillery or Brewery

Learn how your favorite spirit or ale is made and some history behind the brand. Stay after the tour for a tasting and bring home a bottle or two for your bar cart.

Start Thinking About Your Halloween Costume

Whether you're doing a couples costume or flying solo, it's never too early to plan for Halloween. Start gathering materials if you're making your own costume or brainstorm some ideas on Pinterest.

See If Your Friends Are Down For a Trip

Write an email to your A-team of best friends and propose a road trip to a nearby town in the upcoming months. If they're available, start researching AirBnbs, activities, and restaurants in the area.

Ask Your Coolest Friend For a Band Recommendation

Listen to it, and get into a new group or style of music. Find out when the next concert in your area is and get tickets.

Organize the Apps on Your Phone

Delete any you haven’t used in the past four months and categorize the rest in folders. Plus you'll save yourself some storage on your device.

Get Into Sports

Get excited for Major League Baseball or start following the NBA Finals. Finally learn what icing means in hockey or just tune into an NFL game.

Play a Game

Pull out an old-school board game or a pack of cards and get your friends and family to play with you. Some of our favorites include Clue, Sorry!, or Apples to Apples.

Learn About Wine

The College Housewife

Whether you’re into sparkling rosé or Argentinean Malbec, get to know how it’s made, who the best producers are, and what pairs well with it. You'll impress your next dinner date or help your friends decide on a bottle to share the next time you go out.

Watch a Documentary

There are a ton of fantastic documentaries on every streaming site from Netflix to Hulu. Whether you're into true crime, biographies, or sports dramas à la The Last Dance , you'll find something intriguing.

Clean Out Your Junk Drawer

We all have one. Start by throwing away old receipts, broken rubber bands, and disposing of dead batteries. Then, add some drawer dividers and organize what's left.

Plan Your Next Date

Whether you're looking forward to hanging with friends or want to surprise your significant other with a romantic night out, start planning a fun excursion. Grab reservations for that trendy restaurant or create a menu to host a nice dinner in.

Clean One Thing

You don't have to tackle the whole house. Just one part of it! Finally tackle your oven, dust your ceiling fans, or give your shower head a quick rinse. You'll feel better knowing that your home is squeaky clean.

Learn Macramé

This boho-chic trend is sticking around for awhile. The cornerstone of any bohemian residence is plenty of texture. Try your hand at macramé and create one-of-a-kind wall hangings for your space.

Cook For a Loved One

Surprise your significant other with a special homemade dinner, or call up your cousin and invite her over for fried chicken tenders. Head to the grocery store and get the ingredients; then start cooking. Use the good china!

Take a Personality Quiz

Get to know you. An online test from Myers-Briggs or Enneagram can be a fun way to learn more about yourself and how you interact with others. Take a few different tests to see who knows you best.

Head to a Museum

We the People Style

Some even have free admission! Whether you go there in person or take a virtual tour, checking out a museum is a great way to spend your free time. Look for art, history, or science museums in your area.

Check In On Your Personal Finances

Check your savings and checking accounts. Where can you cut back and save more? Are you still subscribing to services you no longer use? Take a look before your next credit card bill.

Challenge Yourself

Explore new projects. Aim to exercise for at least 30 minutes four times this week. Set a new goal at work. Try a new craft or home DIY.

Write Down Your Favorite Tips From This List

Place the pieces of paper in a mason jar. The next time you’re bored, pull something from the jar and do it.

• Sweepstakes Directory: Find the Types of Prizes You Want to Win
• Easy Winning: Win Prizes for Things You're Already Doing
• Free Catalogs for Just About Everything
• 10 Random Nice Things to Do for a Friend
• 30 Fun, Free Things to Do if You're a Teen
• Remodel Your Home for Free With Home Makeover Sweepstakes
• Single Parent Dating: 10 Places to Meet Single Parents
• Reasons You Got Excluded
• Buying a Guitar: Overview
• How to Request a Free Blair Catalog
• 50 Ways to Help a Single Parent
• How to Be Single After a Long Relationship
• How to Read Manga Without Going Broke
• 10 Easy Ways to Find Free Giveaways Online
• How To Win Video Contests (Even If You're Not a Pro!)
• How to Win the Lottery Without Losing Your Shirt

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• This Or That Game New
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Arts and Entertainment
• Fun Activities
• Boredom Busters

What to Do When You’re Bored

Last Updated: March 29, 2024 Fact Checked

• At-Home Activities

Expert Interview

Expert q&a.

This article was co-authored by Gera Anderson, PsyD and by wikiHow staff writer, Aly Rusciano . Dr. Gera Anderson is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with more than five years of experience. She specializes in integrated behavioral health, neuropsychological assessment, and pain management, and has worked in community mental health settings, correctional facilities, psychiatric hospitals, and schools. Dr. Anderson received an MEd from The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities and a PsyD in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 2,495,259 times.

Being bored can be a big bummer. Whether you’re stuck inside, at school or work, or waiting to catch a flight, no one likes to be bored. Luckily, you’ve come to the right place! There are plenty of fun, creative, and productive activities you can do just about anywhere to cure your boredom. Take a look at these suggestions, and we bet you’ll find something to do when you’re bored.

Fun Things to Do When You’re Stuck Inside

• Watch a movie . Find a movie online, or head to your local movie theater. Maybe opt for something you wouldn't normally watch, like a documentary or a mystery.
• Bake or cook. Baking and cooking can help you pass the time while making something scrumptious. So, try making cookies, brownies, or a homemade soup.
• Have a fashion show. Who says you need to go anywhere to glam yourself up? Pass the time by trying out different makeup techniques and putting together fun outfits from your closet. [1] X Research source
• Hang out with your pet. If you have an animal, pamper them with a bath, clip their nails, or teach them new tricks. Spending time with them can help you feel less bored while strengthening your relationship.
• Call or text a friend. See what your loved ones are up to if you’re feeling bored. A casual conversation can keep you entertained while passing the time and connecting with a friend.
• Exercise . Fill your body with endorphins and cure boredom by moving your body. Look up a YouTube yoga flow, dance routine, or bodyweight workout.
• Learn something new. Having some free time is a great chance to learn something new and interesting. Learn how to do magic tricks , discover how to breathe fire , or how to make chainmail .
• Make a pillow fort. If you’re stuck at home, turn your space into something epic by piling up as many pillows and blankets as possible!
• Share something on social media. Update your friends and family on what’s going on in your life. Express your boredom with a Facebook update, share a silly photo on Instagram, or Snapchat your closest pals to see what they’re up to.
• Watch random YouTube videos. Search “comedy” if you want to laugh, and choose something from the “Trending” menu to see what the world’s watching. [2] X Research source

• Memorize something new. Learn America’s 50 states in alphabetical order, see how much of pi you can remember , or try memorizing fun phrases in Morse code.
• Practice tongue twisters. Search “tongue twisters” online. Then, try to perfect as many as you can.
• Play a board game. If you’re stuck inside with friends or family, consider playing a traditional board game (like Monopoly or Scrabble) to help pass the time. [4] X Research source
• Play a video game. When you’re bored, reach for your video game console of choice. Try to beat as many levels as possible, or play until you’re tired of the game.
• Plan a vacation. While you’re stuck inside, think about what you want your next adventure to be. Maybe you want to go to Disney World or visit the Eiffel Tower.
• Explore Craigslist or eBay. Find the weirdest thing you possibly can. Start with general searches like “dolls” or “90s memorabilia” and see where it takes you.

Relaxing Activities to Try

• Meditate. If you have some time and are bored, calm your mind and take a few moments to sit in silence. This can help re-energize your mind and help you think more clearly. [6] X Research source
• Read a book. Skim through your bookshelf or head to the library and pick up whatever book interests you. This is an easy and fun way to pass the time without doing anything too exerting. [7] X Research source
• Listen to music. Turn on your favorite artist or album, or tune into a random radio station to see what’s topping the charts.
• Take a nap. If you’re feeling rundown and bored, take this time as an opportunity to unwind and catch some extra zs. [8] X Research source
• Do a puzzle. Pass the time by solving a puzzle. This quiet, relaxing activity can take up as much time as you’d like.
• Make a gratitude list. Write down everything in your life you’re grateful for. This can be big or small things, like your being thankful for your family or the smell of freshly baked cookies.
• Do your nails. Give yourself a manicure or pedicure to keep yourself busy. Stick with solid polish colors, or get wild and try a funky design (a quick online search can bring up thousands of ideas).

Creative Things to Do

• Make a video. Pass the time by following a social media trend (like a popular dance) or recreate your favorite movie scene with a friend or by yourself. From practicing, filming, and editing, this activity can keep you joyfully busy for hours!
• Practice music. If you play an instrument or sing, now is a great time to practice your skills. Try learning a new piece of music or mastering your favorite song.
• Doodle . This is a great way to keep your hands busy while staying focused at school, work, or home.
• Write a story. Pass the time by making up fictional characters, places, and scenarios. Jot down your ideas in a notebook, or see how long of a story you can type on your computer.
• Make up a dance. Simply turn on some music and get groovy! You can make up an entire dance number or a quick and easy move to teach all your friends.
• Write a song. Ask yourself, “What am I feeling right now?” Then, turn those feelings into lyrics and/or a melody.
• Make a bucket list. Write down everything you want to do or see before you die. Maybe that’s riding in a hot air balloon or visiting Mount Everest.
• Rewrite the lyrics to a favorite song. Look up the lyrics to your favorite song. Then, try replacing all the adjectives and/or pronouns with something new. Then, show it to your friends and see their reaction.
• Make a collage. Cut up a magazine and hang fun quotes and pictures on your wall, or print out pictures of you and your friends to arrange in a picture frame.
• Start a scrapbook. Have a bunch of pictures lying around? Use this time to organize them in a book. [9] X Research source

Thrilling Things to Do Outside

• Practice a sport. Work on your soccer goals, basketball foul shots, or long jump. In other words, practice your favorite sport to sharpen your skills, have fun, and pass the time.
• Go for a walk. Pass the time and soak in some sunshine by taking a nature walk. Take a walk around your neighborhood or head to your local park.
• Travel somewhere new in town. Get in your car and see where the road takes you, or hop on a bus or train and take an exit you’ve never taken before. [10] X Research source
• Donate to a local food bank. Sort through your pantry and see if you have any nonperishable food items (like canned goods) that you could give to someone in need.
• Volunteer at a local animal shelter. Call your local shelter to see if they need help caring for the animals or cleaning out kennels.
• Play “Truth or Dare” with a friend. If you’re bored with friends, consider asking them, “Truth or dare?” Continue playing the game until your spirits are up.
• Go shopping. Ask a friend or family member to come along for even more fun! Keep in mind that you don’t have to buy anything—you can simply browse the stores and window shop.
• Do an outdoor activity. Pass the time by doing something fun in nature. You can go for a hike , fish , or bird watch .
• Stargaze. If you’re bored at night, lay a blanket in your yard or balcony and sit on it as you look at the stars. See how many constellations you can spot (or make up).
• Start a garden. Try your hand at gardening to cure your boredom all year round! Plant tomatoes or flowers to help liven up your backyard or patio.
• People-watch. Whenever you're bored in a busy place (train station, airport, bus depot, cafe, etc.), look around at the people near you. You could even make up stories as to what they’re doing or going. [11] X Research source
• Listen to the conversations going on around you. Eavesdropping can be a great way to pass the time and learn more about people. Subtly listen to a stranger’s conversation to see what’s happening in their life. Then, consider writing down what you hear to turn into a story later. [12] X Research source
• Make up a new persona. When you're traveling, you can be anyone you want to be. Come up with a different personality and stick to it while on the airplane, at the bus depot, waiting for the train, etc.
• Play “I Spy.” If you’re bored traveling with a friend, look around you and say, “I spy something [mention a describing word about something you see].” Then, have your friend guess what you’re describing. Keep going back and worth spying and guessing until you feel less bored.
• Clean out your fridge. Reorganize all your dressing and condiments, throw out expired items, and place like items together. [13] X Research source

Productive Activities to Pass the Time

• Write down your goals. It can be easy to get stuck in your head when you're bored. To avoid this, focus on what you need to have a meaningful and fulfilling life. Take note of your goals and how you can achieve them. [14] X Research source
• Clean your room . Having a clean room can help you feel accomplished and neat, giving you a boost of energy. Plus, it’s a great productive activity to pass the time.
• Organize your closet . If your room’s all clean, consider cleaning out your closet. Maybe you organize everything by color, pattern, or style. Then, consider donating or selling any items that don’t fit or you don’t wear anymore. [15] X Research source
• Do a household project. When you have a little time on your hands, try doing something you've been putting off. Paint that wall you’ve always wanted to paint, hang up a picture, or fix that squeaky door .
• Reorganize or clean your space. Whether you’re at home or the office, take your boredom as a sign to organize your living or workspace. Vacuum, dust, or simply tidy things up. [16] X Research source

• Clean your computer . Wipe down the screen and between the keys. Then, organize the desktop by placing everything in labeled folders or deleting any documents you no longer need or want.
• Decorate your bedroom or living space. Kill some time by decorating your home with seasonal items. Move furniture around, hang up some pictures, or do whatever else feels right!

• Look for things around you for inspiration on what to do. For example, if you saw a pencil, it could inspire you to write. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1

• No matter how bored you are, never try to cure your boredom by pursuing dangerous activities or doing unsafe things. Boredom should not be used as an excuse to pursue illegal activities. Thanks Helpful 23 Not Helpful 5

You Might Also Like

Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about relationships, check out our in-depth interview with Gera Anderson, PsyD .

• ↑ https://www.thenerdyme.com/35-things-youre-bored/
• ↑ Gera Anderson, PsyD. Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Expert Interview. 18 October 2021.
• ↑ https://theeverygirl.com/what-to-do-when-youre-bored/
• ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/sense-time/201603/the-case-boredom-enduring-empty-time
• ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/fulfillment-any-age/201504/the-experts-guide-people-watching
• ↑ https://prevention.ucsf.edu/sites/prevention.ucsf.edu/files/uploads/goodquestions/section3/3b_field.htm
• ↑ https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2022/09/22/brain-boredom-happiness/
• ↑ https://www.theorderexpert.com/how-to-organize-a-looseleaf-binder/
• ↑ Tara Bradford. Life & Mindset Coach. Expert Interview. 16 September 2020.
• ↑ Nicolette Tura, MA. Empowerment Expert. Expert Interview. 23 January 2020.

About This Article

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Mar 3, 2018

Did this article help you?

Sep 6, 2022

Jul 4, 2016

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Watch Articles

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Develop the tech skills you need for work and life

• Discussions
• Reading Challenge
• Kindle Notes & Highlights
• Favorite genres
• Friends’ recommendations
• Account settings

Books To Read When Bored

Books to read when bored books.

Welcome back. Just a moment while we sign you in to your Goodreads account.

Interesting Articles To Read

Interesting Articles To Read When Bored

Interesting Articles To Read When You Are Bored At Home

In This articles we are going to talk about the Interesting Articles To Read When You Are Bored at home. Reading is a good thing in life because this will improve those skills which are needed to be improved when you are learning English so little bit let see things what things reading improves so that is Reading speed, vocabulary, pronunciation, speaking confidence, also improves English and many more. So there are many advantages to reading the things whichever is there in this world to read as some people are having fond of reading the newspaper, Novels, books on different topics, Comics, magazines, etc.

Interesting Articles To Read When You Are Bored at Home

The people are right now interested to read online rather than physical reading or that person who has no time and just want to read the things which are small, interesting, knowledgeable than to read the articles written by the people as online and post on the internet, websites, etc. So a person who gets bored every time and wants to read an amazing article then there is a list of Top 10 list of types of articles to read it.

1.  Book Review Articles

This is the best thing to read the book review articles as the person who gets bored to read the whole book which is fat as elephant then leave and search about the book review articles related to your articles it is a good one because the author of this article has worked hard to give it a review, introduction and main content of book just in 5 min article.

Click Here: Interesting Articles

History book review

The book is related to history and gives you amazing facts about the great personality which is important to know every person on this earth.  If the person does not know history then how could he know the present and future so knowing history is the responsibility of every person so try to read the story and articles related to history topics.

2. Relationship Articles

Reading is good on the relationship stories which had a part in which I have read many stories in which I feel so much excited like stories of RadhaKrishna stories, or the articles related to the stories of love beginning as from the friendship or the breakup related stories as this is having an amazing part to read so go for the Love stories article.

Radhakrishna story article

This article is famous as many peoples are a follower of the RadhaKrishna god which came on earth just to teach love and its exact meaning and experience all things got explained by them through their love story. As if you want to read more on these stories they will be available in the articles form on google.

3.  Science Technology Articles

That person who got fed up by learning the other topics likes stories, business articles or learning some other topics but want to learn something new related to that in which world is going on than reading the Articles related to science topics which give you more knowledge like articles related to brain issues, body genetics, then conscious studies of the brain, Parallel world related articles, Para-normal activity articles are best to read.

Para-normal article

In this activity there are some stories are described in which there are some Para-normal experts were there in which they were experiment something in the room but suddenly the weird activity was started which got horrible for the person who is the owner of the house and there was some description was there that why this activity was happening and the story goes on.

4. Food Recipe Articles

There are good things for the housewife those who want to read something and always feel bored so there are many articles are there related to food Recipes like many easy food items recipe, desserts related recipe articles, Many more food items as we know that India is fond of food lover so lakhs of dishes are there in India so articles were also could easily find in the Google and many websites.

Maggie Recipe Article

This is that dishes which is normally getting ready within a short period but many writers do research and changed this Maggie packet food differently as they add new toppings and made it tastier than it they add more vegetable, then different types of Spices and many more.

5. News Articles

This is good that the person who gets bored every time and wants to read the India current affairs, markets, news, etc. Then start to read news and current affairs articles which a famous one in the Internet world as Cyber Space. Lakhs of people from the different worlds posting the articles related to news on the internet and gives us the information through reading itself as some people are there who does not have any time to watch the videos or the Television then reading made good to get in touch with the News and all.

Business and Market Articles

The person who is fond of money rather than other topics then go for reading the articles on Business and Market articles because this will help you more to know about the Money of every product, their share price, their availability and many more.

6. Bollywood and Hollywood Industry Articles

There are many movies and stories, songs, web series on the Cyber Space whether by money or without money because people are now fond of watching movies of different types and many more web series so people also have an idea about the industry about the actors and much more information.

This helps us to know more about the Bollywood and Hollywood news as what is going on exactly like for example which movie is going to release, what is the net worth of the movie, where is shooting is going happen, etc. News related to this thing is important for this to have an idea about this industry.

7. Comics related articles

The person as children or young children is now fond of reading comics in different niches rather than reading the stories books, biographies, novels, etc. The people in japan china country comic books are so much famous as especially books are printed of different stories and parts of stories. So if the children are right now very attached to mobile phones so they can read comics related to articles which are easily available and also not children even adult person can also read this articles of comics as many writers are continuing writing article as in a digital way at different stories and also in different parts this is a good one to read at free of cost.

Funny article as comic

The comics are there which are much funny like GoroGoro comics of japan in which there are some many stories with different types of funny stories as are there so it is book but related to this it will also available in a digital way or the cyberspace so check-it out if you feel bored and want to read amazing articles.

8. Stories Articles

The children or any person are like to read storybooks, novels and many more. But some people are very much busy that could not read the storybooks but they like to reading but could not read due busy scheduled so at the time articles related to the story of different types as best for them as they just have to give the 5 min to read whole short Stories.

Story of Fiction Article

The fiction story is very much interesting in which they it is not real but the read start to read it goes on another world as many fiction related articles are available like The Browning Version is a good story as to read it.

9. Movies Review Articles

The movies are about for how many times, any idea readers? Yes, it is true if you thinking that approx. 2 hours or last to last 3 hours but is a busy person have time to read it so this is a time when they were expecting to see videos or read an article on the Movie reviews which a person already sees the movie and just write and short article which is already written by that viewer of that particular movie and the reader can get a particular idea about it.

10. Song Review Article

The person in the world cannot live without the music of different type in this musical world as there are 1000 types of song are there or maybe it can billion songs of all different world artist are available but some people are there who does not know about the song famous and how is it, where it is using it more,?

So there are song reviews articles are there in this cyberspace as if you feel bored by listening to the songs then read the articles as it was so short reviews and an amazing and truthful review are there.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Watch CBS News

We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms.

3 ways to have your credit card debt forgiven

By Joshua Rodriguez

Edited By Angelica Leicht

April 1, 2024 / 2:16 PM EDT / CBS News

Credit card debt can be hard to deal with in this economy. Persistent inflation is causing prices to grow  and today's higher interest rate environment is causing credit card rates to rise, leading to  elevated minimum payments  on credit cards. That can lead to financial trouble, especially if you're  facing high credit card debt on a low income . 

If you're looking for solutions to your debt , you may have heard of  credit card debt forgiveness . But can you really have your credit card debt forgiven? In certain cases, yes. For example, if you file for bankruptcy , your credit card debt could be forgiven as part of the bankruptcy process. But that isn't the only way you to take advantage of credit card debt forgiveness. Here's what you should know.

Get in touch with a credit card debt forgiveness expert now . 

There are three common ways to have your credit card debt forgiven. Those include:

Take advantage of credit card debt relief services

Credit card debt forgiveness programs , also known as debt settlement programs, could result in a percentage of your balances being forgiven. 

When you enroll in a debt forgiveness program, experts typically with lenders to get your credit card balances settled for less than you owe. The remainder of your balances are forgiven as part of the process. 

The process typically starts with a conversation about your debt, income and budget to create an affordable payment plan that can get you out of debt in a reasonable amount of time. If you decide to enroll in the service, you will typically make a payment each month to the debt forgiveness company rather than paying lenders directly. 

The money from these payments is deposited in a special-purpose savings account and held until there is enough money to start settling your debts. At that point, the debt relief experts will start negotiations with your lenders. If all goes well, those negotiations will end with a portion of your card balances being forgiven .

Find out how a debt relief expert could help today . 

Negotiate on your own

If you sign up for a credit card debt forgiveness service, you'll pay, on average,  between 15% and 25% of the enrolled balance of each settled account as a fee after the negotiations. You may be able to circumvent those fees, though, by negotiating settlements on your own.

To do this, you typically stop paying your creditors and put the money from your monthly payments in a savings account instead. While it's up to you, it makes sense to start negotiating once you save enough money to pay off 55% of your lowest credit card balance.

When you reach that milestone, call the lender you owe your lowest balance to and let them know you'd like to settle your debt. Consider making a low-ball offer to pay off your account (around 40% of what you owe or less) to leave room for negotiations while staying within your 55% budget. 

Continue to negotiate until you reach a settlement you can afford. Repeat the process with your next-lowest balance until all of your debts are settled. 

File bankruptcy

Bankruptcy is another way to have your credit card debt forgiven. Though this option can damage your credit and impact your finances for longer than the other options above, it may make sense in some circumstances . 

"Bankruptcy should be considered a last resort, however, there are certain situations where personal bankruptcy could be the right option for you," says Aaron Cirksena, founder and CEO of MDRN Capital. "If someone has a sudden job loss and they find themselves without or having gone through their emergency fund, bankruptcy may be the only remaining option." 

But that may not be the only reason to consider bankruptcy. 

"Similar situations may arise in the case of unexpected bills that were not accounted for," says Cirksena. "Additionally, someone who is down to only having retirement accounts left to tap into may also consider filing for bankruptcy as those accounts are generally protected through the bankruptcy process."

The bottom line

There are a few common ways to have your credit card debt forgiven, including working with a debt relief service, negotiating with your lenders on your own or filing for bankruptcy. It's important to note, however, that these options can have a long-lasting negative impact on your credit, and debt settlement in particular can lead to tax implications. So, it makes sense to consider debt forgiveness primarily if you're experiencing financial hardship. If that's the case, reach out to an expert for help now . 

Joshua Rodriguez is a personal finance and investing writer with a passion for his craft. When he's not working, he enjoys time with his wife, two kids, two dogs and two ducks.

More from CBS News

How much debt do you need to qualify for credit card debt forgiveness?

What would a 6% high-yield savings account interest rate earn in a year?

Why you should consider debt relief this April

4 easy ways to make extra cash this April

• SUGGESTED TOPICS
• The Magazine
• Newsletters
• Managing Yourself
• Managing Teams
• Work-life Balance
• The Big Idea
• Data & Visuals
• Reading Lists
• Case Selections
• HBR Learning
• Topic Feeds
• Account Settings
• Email Preferences

How to Address a Resume Gap When Switching Careers

• Rebecca Knight

The do’s and don’ts of navigating a career transition that’s taking longer than you hoped.

The prospect of a new career can hold a sense of excitement. But what should you do if your job search has become a disheartening slog and the gap on your resume just seems to be growing wider by the day? What can you do to protect your mental health and rekindle your optimism for the future? In this article, the author offers practical advice  to help you navigate your career switch when you’re worried about a widening gap on your resume. 

You likely felt a surge of excitement when you made the decision to switch careers . But what should you do if your job hunt starts to become a tedious and disheartening slog — and the  gap on your resume is growing wider by the day? How can you address your extended absence from the workforce without making excuses? And how can you stay motivated and resolved in the face of setbacks?

• RK Rebecca Knight is a journalist who writes about all things related to the changing nature of careers and the workplace. Her essays and reported stories have been featured in The Boston Globe, Business Insider, The New York Times, BBC, and The Christian Science Monitor. She was shortlisted as a Reuters Institute Fellow at Oxford University in 2023. Earlier in her career, she spent a decade as an editor and reporter at the Financial Times in New York, London, and Boston.

Partner Center

'Real Housewives' Star Lauri Peterson's Son Josh Waring Dead at 35

WrestleMania 40 Who'd You Rather?!

Dwayne Johnson Engaged in Clash With WWE Fan at Hall of Fame Ceremony

What's The Big Frigin' Difference?!

Gypsy Rose Blanchard Recovering in First Look After Nose Job

Florida woman filmed getting arrested, crazy body cam footage, insane body cam footage drunken florida woman wails ... as police remove her from hotel.

Julia ReJean Moorhead learned the hard way it's never a good idea to mouth off to Florida cops, especially when you're being recorded by their body cameras.

Check out this crazy police footage released this week after staff at The Ben Hotel in West Palm Beach called 911 to report that Moorhead was trespassing.

Officers responded to the October 2023 incident ... Moorhead was in the hotel lobby, claiming to be trying to get back upstairs to the room she shared with her boyfriend.

But the employees had already deemed her an unwanted guest who was ordered to leave. It didn't help Moorhead any that she was drunk and acting abusive.

Unfortunately, the cops got the brunt of Moorhead's vitriol as they tried to remove her from the property.

At one point, Moorhead laid down on the concrete while berating officers ... and eventually hit a woman who was walking behind her as cops tried to escort her off the property.

That's when PD grabbed Moorhead and placed her under arrest as she went absolutely berserk -- but not before she started crying on the floor, with officers ordering her to get up. Moorhead was then shipped off to central booking, where she posed for her mug shot.

According to court records ... Moorhead is charged with trespass, disorderly intoxication, and resisting officer with violence. Her next court date is scheduled for April 16.

• Share on Facebook

related articles

Tamar Braxton Says Car Is 'Completely Trashed,' Emotional Police Body Cam Footage

Joseline Hernandez Shoves Cops, Hurls Slurs on Body Cam from Big Lex Brawl

Old news is old news be first.

• Share full article

Advertisement

The Morning

Eclipse mania.

There’s still reason to get excited, even if you’re not convinced by the hype.

By Melissa Kirsch

On Monday, the moon will steal between the Earth and the sun, a total solar eclipse in North America. The path of totality, the strip of the continent where the moon will completely obscure the sun, begins in Mazatlán, Mexico, crosses over more than a dozen U.S. states, from Texas to Maine, and ends in Newfoundland, Canada.

For umbraphiles (“shadow lovers,” in Latin), as eclipse enthusiasts are known, this is a big deal. They’ve had hotel rooms in Buffalo and Carbondale, Ill. booked for months if not years. They’re following weather reports closely, praying for cloudless skies.

The first time I heard of an eclipse, I was in sixth grade. My science teacher, too aptly named Mr. Lux (“light,” in Latin), described the mechanics of the event, but what stayed with me, an anxious child, was not the idea of a world plunged into daytime darkness but the risk of permanent retinal damage posed by looking directly at the eclipse. I couldn’t believe I was permitted proximity to this much peril, this much responsibility over my safety. One glance skyward and I could damage my eyesight forever. Why was I just learning about this now?

I didn’t think much of eclipses again until the very branded “Great American Eclipse” of 2017, for which I procured safety glasses and witnessed a few moments of the sun mostly disappearing on a crowded street corner in Manhattan, near my office. The experience was brief, strange, uncoordinated. A quick astronomy interlude then back to work.

This time around, I’ve been considering the eclipse the way I did the coronation of Charles III: It’s not an event of organic fascination for me, but there’s enough hype and chatter afoot that I want in. I’ll read up and geek out so that I understand its significance, so that I can be a part of the pop-up community that materializes when big things are happening. That’s the blessing and the curse of endless information: If everyone’s talking about something, you can join in on the fun! Also, everyone’s always talking about something; why won’t they ever shut up.

Or, as a friend of mine put it grumpily, “Is this a disturbance in the heavens or a pure product of a grotesque news cycle where everything has to be a topic of ‘the national conversation’?”

I heard him, but given an option to quash my cynicism, I’ll always pursue it. I got on a video chat with my friends Christa and Ali, umbraphiles who are traveling from their home in Amsterdam to an Airbnb in the Adirondacks for Monday’s spectacle. In 2017 they rented a house in the path of totality in Oregon, and immediately afterward booked accommodations for this year.

What had they seen last time that made them so eager to do it again?

They described the hours leading up to the eclipse, when the weather gets colder, when you’re suddenly aware of how much the sun is heating us. In Oregon, the streetlights had come on and the birds went silent at 10 in the morning. Kids got tired and more snugly, bedtime behavior triggered.

“I’m not a spiritual person. I don’t usually think about the bigger picture of what we’re swimming in,” Ali said. “But I felt that at the eclipse. I had a sense that I’m this one person in this huge thing.” That’s the feeling she’s hoping to encounter again. Christa compared the experience to the awe felt by astronauts seeing Earth from space for the first time.

Why was I just learning about this now? Or why was I just paying attention now? It’s way too late to travel to see the main attraction, but the next best thing might be reading Annie Dillard’s incandescent account of seeing the 1979 eclipse on a hilltop in central Washington State: “There was no sound. The eyes dried, the arteries drained, the lungs hushed. There was no world.”

Most of our communal enthusiasms these days are human-made: the Oscars, the Super Bowl, the election, the new Beyoncé album. A total solar eclipse is a product of the natural world. It happens without elaborate stagecraft, without any outlay of capital. For this reason alone, it’s a rare occurrence. And there won’t be another in the United States until 2044.

I asked my friend Ali what she hoped to get out of her eclipse trip this year. She’s hoping to leave with a deep sense that we aren’t in control of everything, and that that’s OK. “Sometimes, the things that we’re not in control of are really beautiful,” she said. “It’s not just bad things.”

FAQ s about the eclipse.

Some maps of the eclipse’s path.

Check the weather forecast for Monday.

Last-minute strategies if you still want to get closer to the action.

The Wirecutter explains how to photograph an eclipse .

Learn how Times journalists are covering the eclipse .

“Once upon a time there was light in my life, but now there’s only love in the dark .”

THE WEEK IN CULTURE

Film and TV

Kristen Wiig and Maya Rudolph are good friends and alumnae of “Saturday Night Live.” They spoke with The Times about their new Apple TV+ show, “Palm Royale.”

Andrew Scott, the Irish actor known for playing the priest in “Fleabag,” will star in a Netflix adaptation of “The Talented Mr. Ripley.” Read a review .

Rumors have swirled about who might play James Bond next. Styles reporters discussed possible candidates, including Dev Patel and Jennifer Lawrence .

“Godzilla x Kong” has plenty of destruction, but little concern about death toll, writes Esther Zuckerman .

Eli Noyes, an animator whose clay and sand stop-motion animations influenced a generation of filmmakers, died at 81 .

In an age when images of naked bodies are easily accessible, a new generation of artists are painting nudes that reflect a fuller understanding of the body .

The Whitney Museum of American Art appointed Kim Conaty , the curator behind the museum’s celebrated Edward Hopper exhibition, as its new chief curator.

Leonardo DiCaprio, Tracee Ellis Ross and Gayle King were among the stars who came out to celebrate New York’s museums this week. See photos from the parties .

Other Big Stories

Forbes added Taylor Swift to its list of billionaires. The publication reports that she became a billionaire last year, largely because of her Eras Tour.

Boat shoes go in and out of fashion like the tide. Right now, they’re very much in .

The estate of George Carlin reached a settlement with the makers of a podcast who had used A.I. to impersonate the comedian.

THE LATEST NEWS

Israel-Hamas War

Israel said a string of errors led to the fatal attack on the World Central Kitchen aid convoy. The military removed two officers from their posts and reprimanded three senior commanders who were involved.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken welcomed Israel’s announcement that it would open more aid routes into Gaza, but said the U.S. would be watching to see if Israel prioritized easing the humanitarian crisis there. “The proof is in the results,” he said.

President Biden’s call with Benjamin Netanyahu demanding Israel change its approach was meant to force a course correction , not to rupture the U.S.-Israel relationship, Peter Baker explains.

A magnitude-4.8 earthquake shook buildings across the northeastern U.S. but caused little damage. The epicenter was in New Jersey, about 50 miles west of New York City.

U.S. employers added 303,000 jobs in March , more than expected, and the unemployment rate fell. The job market has grown for 39 straight months.

F.B.I. agents have examined valuable flight upgrades they believe Eric Adams, New York City’s mayor, received from Turkish Airlines for free , part of an investigation into his campaign fund-raising.

TikTok is spending millions on TV and social media ads — tagged #KeepTikTok — as the Senate considers a bill that could ban the app nationwide.

Big tech companies have skirted rules online to harvest data for A.I. training. Read much more about the issue here.

CULTURE CALENDAR

By Alexis Soloski

🎤 “Just for Us” (Saturday): It sounds like the setup to a joke: A nice Jewish boy walks into a meeting of white supremacists. In Alex Edelman’s HBO standup special, it’s the setup to many. This solo show, which played on Broadway last summer, is a giddy, bristly exploration of antisemitism. “People often tell me how timely the show is,” Edelman confessed recently, “but people have been telling me that since 2018.”

🎥 “Civil War” (Friday): It has become fashionable to describe America as more politically polarized than at any time since the Civil War. For the filmmaker Alex Garland, that could only mean one thing. This movie, starring Kirsten Dunst, embeds with a cadre of journalists racing toward an imperiled Washington, D.C.

RECIPE OF THE WEEK

Rendang daging (beef rendang).

By Genevieve Ko

Rendang is richness upon richness , built from beef simmering in chiles and lemongrass-scented coconut milk until the sauce caramelizes onto the tender meat. Make this beloved Indonesian dish today, as many do, for Lebaran (the Indonesian term for Eid al-Fitr) to mark the end of Ramadan and its period of fasting.

REAL ESTATE

The hunt: Two farmers from Virginia sought a small second home in Manhattan for less than $800,00. Which did they choose? Play our game .

What you get for $3.2 million: A 19th-century farmhouse in Leeds, N.Y.; a townhouse in Savannah, Ga.; or a 1927 five-bedroom house in Salt Lake City .

Curmudgeon: Larry David’s own style may be simple, but he’s one of the best fashion critics of our time , Ruth La Ferla writes.

Heart and stomach: Cooking for someone in the early stages of dating can be loaded with meaning. So, when is the right time ?

Travel 101: Trying to pack light? Here’s how .

ADVICE FROM WIRECUTTER

This toaster oven really can do it all.

As we transition from low-and-slow braises to meals that highlight spring’s bounties, it’s natural to turn away from our ovens. But don’t forget about your toaster oven. Really good ones, like our roomy top pick or this one that doubles as an air fryer , can whip up ramp quiches, picnic-friendly roast chickens or springy cakes just as well as your wall oven can. They can also churn out toast for busy mornings, quickly reheat leftovers or sizzle fries and chicken wings to air-fryer levels of crispness. Of all the kitchen gadgets we test that promise do-it-all magic, these versatile workhorses come closest. — Marilyn Ong

GAME OF THE WEEK

South Carolina vs. Iowa, women’s N.C.A.A. championship: South Carolina is one win away from a perfect season, after the Gamecocks easily handled N.C. State , 78 to 59. This game might not be so easy, though, as they face Caitlin Clark and Iowa, who outlasted UConn last night , 71 to 69, to reach their second straight final. Clark has racked up countless records over her college career, but she hasn’t won a national title. This will be her last chance. 3 p.m. Eastern tomorrow on ABC

NOW TIME TO PLAY

Here is today’s Spelling Bee . Yesterday’s pangrams were decimate, decimated, emaciated, medicate and medicated .

Take the news quiz to see how well you followed this week’s headlines.

And here are today’s Mini Crossword , Wordle , Sudoku and Connections .

Thanks for spending part of your weekend with The Times. — Melissa

Sign up here to get this newsletter in your inbox . Reach our team at [email protected] .

Melissa Kirsch is the deputy editor of Culture and Lifestyle at The Times and writes The Morning newsletter on Saturdays. More about Melissa Kirsch