We’ve all been there—staring at the ceiling, aimlessly scrolling through our phones, or pacing around the house, wondering what to do. Boredom can strike any time, and while it might seem like a frustrating waste of time, it’s actually an opportunity in disguise!
Instead of letting boredom take over, why not turn it into something fun, creative, or productive?
Whether you’re seeking ways to entertain yourself indoors, unleash your creativity, unwind, or expand your knowledge, this list has something for everyone. The options are diverse and exciting.
So, if you’re feeling stuck and need some inspiration, keep reading—we’re about to turn your boredom into a chance for adventure!
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40 Things To Do When You’re Bored
Fun Activities to Do Indoors
Stuck inside? There are many ways to stay entertained and have fun without stepping out.
1. Play board games, card games, or puzzles
Grab a board game like Monopoly or Scrabble. You can play alone, with friends, or with family. Card games like Solitaire are great for quiet moments, while group games like Uno or Poker bring everyone together.
Puzzles are perfect to focus your mind. Try a 500-piece jigsaw puzzle—or even larger if you have time! Use puzzles to relax and enjoy brain exercise at the same time.
2. Host a themed movie or TV show marathon
Pick a fun theme and turn it into a movie or TV show marathon. Watch Halloween specials from your favorite series for some spooky vibes. Choose classics, like “Hocus Pocus” or binge Harry Potter movies if you love magic.
For an all-day event, stick to one genre—comedies, action films, or family favorites. Don’t forget snacks! Popcorn with sprinkles or chocolate works great. Invite friends or enjoy guilt-free relaxation time while catching up on shows you’ve missed!
3. Try new online or mobile games
Play online games like Solitaire or multiplayer ones on your phone. They can pass time and keep you entertained. Mobile games often get updates, so there’s always something new to try.
Challenge yourself with puzzle apps or strategy games. If you prefer social fun, join friends in platforms like Roblox or Among Us. Many are free and easy to download!
4. Experiment with a new recipe or bake something delicious
Bake cookies or try making bread from scratch. Use meal-kit services to explore new dishes—it’s fun and easy! Recreate your favorite restaurant meal at home with fresh ingredients.
Make fancy cocktails or mocktails to pair with your food.
Whip up overnight oats for a quick breakfast treat, test pickled veggies for a tangy snack, or bake something sweet to fill your kitchen with amazing smells and keep you busy. Enjoy every bite of your homemade creations!
5. Have a karaoke or dance session
Grab a microphone and sing your heart out. Create a playlist of your high school favorite songs to relive fun memories. Use apps like Smule or YouTube for karaoke tracks. Invite friends or family to join—it’s more fun together!
Turn up the music and have a dance party in your living room. Choose songs that make you want to move, like pop hits or classics. Dancing boosts energy and lifts your mood. Don’t worry about moves—just go with the flow!
Creative Things to Try
Let your imagination take over and create something fun. Use this time to explore arts, crafts, or writing ideas.
6. Start a DIY craft project
Create something fun with items you already have. Turn old photos into a scrapbook or design tattoos to save for later. If you enjoy working with fabric, you can also sew masks.
Make a time capsule for your future self and fill it with keepsakes, notes, or small mementos. Use this to store memories for years ahead. Crafting can keep boredom away while making something meaningful!
7. Paint, sketch, or try digital art
Try painting a portrait of your pet or a favorite household item. Use bright colors to make it lively. Sketch small doodles first if you’re unsure where to start. If you’re new, grab some pencils or watercolors for practice.
Digital art is fun, too. Use apps like Procreate or Canva on tablets or phones. Experiment with layers and brushes without worrying about making mistakes! You can even create scrapbook-style designs for family photos.
It’s a creative activity that can keep boredom away for hours!
8. Write a short story, poem, or journal entry
Start your day with “The Artist’s Way” method. Write three pages of thoughts every morning. No need to plan—just let words flow.
You can also write a poem about your feelings or surroundings. Play with rhymes, or keep it freeform and simple. Craft a short story set in a cozy crawlspace, a bustling lunch spot, or under starlit skies.
Let small details inspire big ideas!
9. Make a scrapbook or photo album
Gather old photos, tickets, and keepsakes. Sort them by trips, events, or people you love. Use colorful papers and pens to add fun details. Write short notes about each photo—like dates or a quick memory.
Digital tools work too. Apps let you create albums with ease. Upload pictures and add captions in minutes. This makes it simple to share memories online or print later!
10. Learn a new musical instrument or write a song
Pick up a guitar, keyboard, or even a ukulele to start something new. You don’t need fancy tools—apps like Yousician can guide you step-by-step. Start with simple tunes and grow your skills slowly.
Try writing a song about your day or feelings. Use free apps like GarageBand to compose music and lyrics together. Don’t worry about being perfect! Focus on having fun while creating something personal.
Relaxing Ways to Unwind
Take a moment to slow down and recharge. These simple activities can help you feel calm and refreshed.
11. Have an at-home spa day
Light some candles and dim the lights. Take a warm bath with essential oils or bubbles. Use a face mask or scrub to refresh your skin. Lie under a weighted blanket for extra comfort.
Clean your makeup brushes while you wait for your mask to work. Play calming music in the background. This is great for relaxing and feels like good housekeeping too!
12. Read a book or listen to an audiobook
Pick up a book like “Swann’s Way” to escape into rich stories. If you love humor, try essays by Jack Handey or Samantha Irby. Books can take you to new worlds and spark your imagination.
Too busy to read? Listen to audiobooks instead. They work great during chores or long walks. Choose uplifting books, self-help guides, or gripping novels to pass time and unwind.
13. Try meditation, deep breathing, or yoga
Take a few minutes to relax with meditation or deep breathing. These practices calm your mind and lower stress. Many free online classes guide you step-by-step, so it’s easy to start. You only need a quiet spot and maybe a cushion.
Yoga is another great way to unwind. Stretching helps your body feel better while clearing your thoughts. If you’re new to yoga, try beginner yoga videos online. It’s not about being perfect—just enjoy the moment!
14. Listen to calming music or podcasts
Play soft music to unwind. Pick genres like classical, acoustic, or lo-fi beats. A soothing playlist can ease stress and help you focus. Podcasts are great if you enjoy learning while relaxing.
Try storytelling podcasts or ones on creative activities like DIY projects or baking cookies.
Set the mood with dim lights and cozy seating. Let calming sounds guide your thoughts away from stress. Some people listen while cleaning makeup brushes or window cleaning—it makes chores feel lighter! Find what works best for you and enjoy the peace it brings.
15. Practice mindfulness or gratitude journaling
Take a notebook and write three things you’re grateful for each day. This simple habit can lift your mood and help you focus on the good in life. You can also visualize goals or dreams by jotting them down.
Spend a few minutes sitting quietly, breathing deeply, and focusing on the present moment. Mindfulness reduces stress and improves mental clarity. Pair it with gratitude journaling to feel more calm and positive daily.
Productive Ways to Make Use of Your Time
Clean up your space—it feels great to get organized. Plan ahead for meals or dream about your next trip!
16. Organize your closet, workspace, or digital files
Sort your closet by seasons or colors. Donate clothes that you haven’t worn in a year. Fold items neatly or use bins to keep everything in place.
Tidy up your workspace for better focus. Throw away old papers and organize cables with clips. Clean out digital files—delete duplicates, arrange folders, and back up important data.
17. Declutter your home and donate unused items
Clear out closets and drawers. Let go of clothes, toys, or gadgets you no longer use. These items can bring joy to others while freeing up space for you.
Donate to shelters, charities, or thrift stores in your area. This small act helps people in need and makes your home feel calmer and more relaxing.
18. Learn a new skill, language, or take an online course
Mastering a new skill or language is exciting. Use apps like Duolingo or Babbel to start learning today. These platforms make learning fun and simple. Spend just 15 minutes a day, and you’ll see progress quickly.
Online courses can teach almost anything—coding, cooking, or photography. Look for free classes on websites like Khan Academy or Coursera. Gaining knowledge fills time while improving your future skills!
19. Plan your next vacation, event, or personal goals
Plan a getaway to explore new places or relax. Start by listing destinations, activities, and dates you like. Use apps to compare flights or hotels for the best deals. Think about fun ideas—like wine tours, stargazing trips, or beach weekends.
Set personal goals, too, and write down steps to reach them. Want to start meal prepping? Begin with simple recipes like overnight oats or homemade applesauce. Break tasks into smaller pieces so they feel less overwhelming and more fun!
20. Try meal prepping or creating a budget plan
Cooking in advance saves time and money. Meal prepping with a meal-kit service makes it easy. You can recreate favorite restaurant meals at home too. This helps you eat healthier and stick to your budget.
Creating a budget plan also keeps finances on track. List all expenses and income first. Then, set spending limits for each category, such as groceries or fun activities. Stick to the plan, and watch savings grow!
Outdoor Activities to Enjoy
Step outside and soak in the fresh air. Nature offers endless ways to refresh your mind and body!
21. Go for a walk, hike, or bike ride
Take a walk around your neighborhood or a nearby park. Fresh air and light exercise can boost your mood, and walking with a pet adds comfort and joy to the experience.
Ride your bike through scenic trails for fun and fitness. If you want adventure, try hiking— explore nature reserves or hills nearby!
22. Start a garden or take care of indoor plants
Plant some flowers or grow fresh herbs. Gardening can help relieve stress and improve your mood. You don’t need much space—start small with potted plants indoors. Choose easy options like succulents or spider plants if you’re new to it.
Taking care of indoor plants is relaxing and rewarding. Water them, trim leaves, and watch them thrive! You can also try planting vegetables for home-cooked meals. This hobby keeps you busy while adding greenery to your home!
23. Have a picnic, BBQ, or stargazing night
Spend an evening in your backyard with a fun picnic or BBQ. Grill burgers, veggies, or hot dogs while enjoying the fresh air. Lay out a blanket for snacks and drinks under the open sky.
Wait until nightfall to stargaze. Use apps to find constellations or planets. Bring cozy blankets to stay warm as you relax and look up at the stars.
24. Explore a nearby park or nature reserve
Visit a nearby park or nature reserve for fresh air and peace. Walking through the trees can lift your mood and lower stress. Many parks have trails for hiking or biking, so you can stay active while enjoying nature.
Try birdwatching or taking photos of plants and wildlife. Pack a picnic to enjoy under the open sky. Gardening at home also helps reduce stress, but being outdoors adds more benefits—like sunlight and new sights!
25. Try birdwatching or photography
Look for birds in your backyard or a nearby park. Start small with common ones like sparrows, robins, or cardinals. A simple pair of binoculars can help you spot faraway birds. List the species you find—it’s fun and keeps things exciting! Birdwatching is peaceful and connects you with nature.
Photography works well too. Use your phone or camera to capture plants, animals, or sunsets. Experiment with different angles and lighting to get creative shots. These hobbies are low-cost but offer endless enjoyment while keeping boredom away!
Social and Interactive Activities
Connect with others to brighten your day. Explore fun ways to enjoy shared experiences or catch up with loved ones!
26. Call, video chat, or write letters to friends and family
Pick up the phone and call someone you miss. A quick chat can boost both your moods. Video chats let you see their smile—perfect for catching up face-to-face, even miles apart.
Write letters to friends or family if you enjoy something personal. Handwritten notes show extra effort and care. They make people feel valued in a way texts can’t match!
27. Host a virtual trivia night, game night, or talent show
Invite friends or family for a virtual trivia night. Create questions about movies, history, or fun facts. Use tools like Zoom and Kahoot to make it easy. Using apps or online games, you can also host a game night with classics like Pictionary.
Show off talents by hosting a virtual talent show instead! Sing, dance, or do magic tricks while others cheer you on. It’s simple to plan and works great for bonding. Keep the good vibes flowing with prizes for winners!
28. Join a new online community or discussion group
Find a group that shares your hobbies or interests. Online spaces exist for cooking, gaming, book clubs, or even learning new languages. Platforms like Reddit or Facebook Groups make joining easy.
Talk to others about planning a getaway or reading books you love. Many groups host discussions, challenges, or virtual events weekly. This keeps things fun and helps you meet people from around the world!
29. Visit a friend, family member, or local event
Step out and visit someone close to you. Catch up with a friend or family member you haven’t seen in a while. Share laughs and stories or even help them with something small. It can lighten your mood and strengthen bonds.
Check out local events nearby. Attend a farmers’ market, art fair, or music festival happening in your area. These events bring joy and let you meet new people from the community. Plus, they’re often free or low-cost!
30. Start a book club or watch party
Invite friends to start a book club. Pick a book everyone wants to read. Meet weekly or monthly to discuss it. Share opinions, favorite parts, and thoughts on the story.
If movies are more fun for you, plan a watch party instead. Choose a movie series or show everyone loves. Watch together online or in person. Add snacks for an extra treat!
Learning and Self-Improvement Activities
Explore new skills to grow and challenge yourself. Try activities that spark curiosity or build confidence.
31. Take an online class or certification
Learn something new from home. Platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and Skillshare offer short cooking, coding, or photography courses. You can start learning a new language using apps like Duolingo or Babbel.
Choose certifications to boost your career skills. For example, LinkedIn Learning offers business-related certificates. Many of these can be done at your own pace—even in just a few hours!
32. Watch educational documentaries or TED Talks
Watch documentaries or TED Talks to learn while relaxing. Many cover topics like science, history, health, or personal growth. TED Talks often last 10–20 minutes and are packed with ideas from experts around the world.
Educational films can also entertain you when you’re bored. For example, nature documentaries show stunning visuals of wildlife and landscapes. Platforms like Netflix or YouTube make them easy to find anytime.
33. Practice a new hobby like cooking, coding, or photography
Try cooking a new dish or baking something fun. Pick an easy recipe and make it your own. Cooking at home saves money and lets you eat healthier meals. If you’re feeling creative, try ceramics to make bowls or plates for your kitchen—it’s both valuable and rewarding.
Coding can be another exciting hobby to start. Many free online courses teach beginner coding skills in hours. Photography is excellent too! Use your phone camera to take pictures of nature, pets, or people around you.
Bird-watching with photography adds extra joy—you’ll learn about different birds while snapping their photos!
34. Read self-improvement or business books
Pick up a book like “Swann’s Way” or explore self-improvement titles. These books can spark new ideas and improve your mindset.
Business books teach skills you can use daily. While staying entertained, you can learn about leadership, time management, or building better habits.
35. Set personal challenges like a fitness routine or daily journaling
Try a new fitness routine to stay active and feel good. Aim for 20 minutes of exercise daily—like stretching, jogging, or yoga. Create easy goals, such as five push-ups or walking a mile.
Small steps lead to big changes over time.
Start journaling to relax your mind and set plans. Write three things you’re grateful for each day in a gratitude journal. Use it to list dreams or reflect on moments that make you happy.
It’s simple but helps you stay focused and calm!
Giving Back and Helping Others
Helping others can brighten your day and theirs too. Small acts of kindness create significant impacts—start where you are!
36. Volunteer virtually or in your local community
Help others by volunteering online or nearby. Many platforms let you assist with tutoring, writing, or graphic design from home. Local options include food banks, shelters, or animal care centers needing extra hands.
You can also mentor someone in your field of expertise. Simple acts like creating cards for seniors or supporting a local cause make a significant impact. Volunteering keeps you busy and brings joy to others too!
37. Donate items you no longer need
Clean out your closets or personal spaces to find items you no longer use. Donate unused clothes, books, toys, or kitchen tools. Many charities, like Goodwill and local shelters, accept donations year-round.
Giving these items helps others while creating more room in your home.
Decluttering also boosts relaxation by reducing clutter around you. Instead of letting things gather dust, pass them on to someone who can use them. It’s a simple way to use your time and support your community!
38. Write positive messages or cards for loved ones
Send a kind message or card to someone you care about. Write uplifting words like “I appreciate you” or “You make my days brighter.” Simple notes can mean a lot.
Create colorful cards with fun stickers, drawings, or decorations to make them unique. Handwritten letters show thought and effort—they bring smiles!
39. Support a cause or charity
Donate money, food, or clothes to a local charity or cause close to your heart. Many shelters and food banks welcome canned goods, blankets, or gently worn clothing.
Volunteer your time if you can. Work at animal shelters, soup kitchens, or community gardens. Small acts—like writing positive cards for hospitals or nursing homes—spread kindness fast! Even sharing online fundraisers can help raise awareness while you’re at home.
40. Mentor someone or offer free help in an area of expertise
Share your knowledge with someone who needs guidance. You could mentor a student, help a coworker, or teach a hobby like photography. Even small tips can make a big difference in their growth.
Offer free advice online through forums or social media groups. Many people seek help in coding, writing, or cooking. Your experience might solve their problems and brighten their day!
The Bottom Line
Boredom doesn’t have to feel endless. You now have many ideas to try—from fun games and creative crafts to relaxing or helping others. These activities are easy, impactful, and enjoyable.
Pick one that excites you and make the most of your day! Even small changes can bring immense joy back into your routine.
Additional reading: Song to Listen to When Sad
