When you find yourself bored at home with nothing to do, it’s easy to turn to an electronic device. And I think it’s okay to catch up on Netflix or scroll social media every once in awhile.
But it’s also good to find a balance between relaxing and being productive at home. As a work from home home, I have to be intentional with the way I schedule my day so that I’m not wasting my time and instead making the days count.
That’s why I love following a daily schedule and using to-do lists. However, there are times when I have nothing left on my to do lists, and I find myself looking for things to do especially in the winter when it’s harder to get outside and go places.
Maybe you are feeling the same way. Here’s a list of productive things you can do at home. Just look through the list and pick one or two that seem the most productive or interesting to you.
Then you can always come back and find something else to do on another day. By the way, I will add to this list as I come up with more ideas. If you have anything you think should be added to this list, I’d love to hear! Leave it in the comments.
Productive Things To Do
Household Tasks
- Dust cobwebs in ceiling corners.
2. Dust ceiling fans and/or light fixtures.
3. Wash curtains and rugs.
4. Clean out behind the kitchen appliances.
5. Vacuum under the couch and furniture that doesn’t get moved much.
6. Organize the garage.
7. Declutter and organize the medicine cabinet.
8. Organize under the kitchen sink.
9. Organize the linen closet.
10. Organize your makeup and hair styling tools.
11. Catch up on ironing.
12. Hem the curtains, pants, or whatever else you may be putting off.
13. Take donations to the thrift store or charity.
14. Touch up paint on walls or trim.
15. Decorate a shelf.
16. Repaint an entire room.
17. Make a meal plan.
18. Pay the bills.
19. Write a budget.
20. Organize your desk or work space.
Personal Care
- Use a clarifying face mask.
2. Give yourself a manicure or pedicure.
3. Floss your teeth.
4. Apply a hair treatment.
5. Schedule a dentist, doctor, or haircut appointment that you have been putting off.
6. Do a workout from YouTube or one you find online.
Family Time
- Read a book to your kids.
2. Do a puzzle with your kids.
3. Play a card or board game with your kids.
4. Color a picture or do a craft with your kids.
5. Have a date night with your spouse.
6. Plan for family fun nights.
Get Outside
*Of course, these are weather permitting!
- Take a walk.
2. Ride your bike.
3. Go on a nature hike.
4. Mow the grass.
5. Plant a garden.
6. Weed the flower bed.
7. Sweep the porch.
Do Something New
- Start a hobby.
2. Learn a new skill.
3. Make a new recipe.
4. Practice playing an instrument.
5. Play a new sport.
Connect with Others
- Visit the neighbors and bring them a baked good.
2. Call a relative.
3. Write a letter or send a card.
4. Invite a friend over for coffee.
Whew! That’s a lot of things you can do at home that don’t cost much money and will have you feeling motivated and productive. They are all simple things that will make a big difference and help you limit screen time.
One of the best ways to be more productive is to simply do something. Really! If you want to stop procrastinating, you have to take the first step.
Every task has a beginning. So think about what is the very first thing you must do to complete a task. Then do that one thing. It will create a domino effect and will lead to you doing more.
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