Have you ever found yourself aimlessly surfing the web, caught in the whirlpool of digital ennui? We’ve all been there. But what if I told you that this boredom could be your secret productivity tool?
Indeed! Boredom isn’t just about binge-watching cat videos or endlessly scrolling through social media. It’s an untapped well of potential, an opportunity to learn a new language, initiate a blog, or even become a whiz at online chess.
With the power of the internet at your disposal, transforming boredom into a productivity powerhouse is just a click away.
So, let’s jump in and turn those sighs of boredom into cheers of accomplishment.
13 Productive Things to Do Online When Bored
1. Master a New Language: Online Platforms for Language Learning
Let’s dive into the exciting world of online language mastery, shall we? Imagine turning your online hours into a word-filled adventure! A variety of platforms cater to different levels and tastes, offering a language-learning buffet right at your fingertips.
Meet Duolingo, the rock star of language learning. It brings a game-like vibe, transforming learning into a joyful quest. Beginners and explorers alike will love it as they venture through new linguistic territories.
Next up, Rosetta Stone, the immersion maestro! It’s like a method actor whisking you away to foreign lands, all from the comfort of your room. Think full sentences and real-life scenarios, like stepping into a foreign film. Before you know it, you’re speaking and thinking in new languages.
Babbel, the chatterbox’s haven. Think cozy chats over coffee with a language. Dive in for heart-to-heart conversations and swiftly hone your speaking and listening skills.
Memrise, the memory magician. It’s like a magical garden where words and grammar bloom. With spaced repetition and mnemonic tricks, vocabulary becomes a fun memory game. Native speakers’ video clips add a touch of movie magic to boost your listening skills.
Say hello to Busuu, the interactive virtuoso. It’s your language coach, just a click away. Navigate through interactive courses, and here’s the twist – have your exercises reviewed by native speakers. It’s like a backstage pass to a language-learning concert, where experts applaud your stellar performance.
2. Starting A Blog
You can initiate a blog when you’re bored to pass the time online. Here’s a brief guide to get you started:
Choose Your Blogging Platform:
WordPress is a leading choice due to its flexibility and user-friendly interface.
Pick a Domain Name:
This is your blog’s address on the web. Make it unique and memorable.
Secure Web Hosting:
A web host stores your blog online. Bluehost is a reliable option that integrates well with WordPress.
Install WordPress:
With most hosts, you can do this with a single click.
Pick a Theme:
This determines the look of your blog. There are thousands of free and premium themes available.
Compose Your First Post:
Write about something you’re passionate about. Remember, quality trumps quantity.
Promote Your Blog:
Share your posts on social media, engage with your readers, and consider SEO strategies to increase your blog’s visibility.
3. Hone Your Creative Skills: Online Art and Craft Lessons
Ready to dive into a world of artistic wonders? Picture this: Online platforms like Skillshare are your gateway to a buffet of arts and crafts classes designed to satisfy your most extravagant creative cravings.
Upgrade your drawing game with courses like “Basic Skills / Getting Started with Drawing” or “Learn to Draw: Daily Practices to Elevate Your Art.” These virtual guides walk you through the essentials, helping you finesse your artistic finesse one pencil stroke at a time.
Let’s switch gears and envision yourself before a blank canvas, armed with a palette of vibrant acrylics. “Acrylic Painting: Unleash Your Inner Picasso for Beginners” and “Library: Unleash Your Imagination with Acrylics” are your guiding stars, offering step-by-step instructions that make the painting feel like a breeze.
Calling all craft enthusiasts. Brace yourself for “Master the Art of Crafting: Crafting Your Dazzling Patterns – Part 1.” You’ll be weaving your creative magic in no time.
Guess what? It’s not just Skillshare in the game. Creativebug, Udemy, and Skillshare themselves curate a trove of courses spanning the creative spectrum. Whether you wield a paintbrush or knit needles, there’s creative gold waiting for you.
4. Boost Your Brain: Memory Improvement Techniques Online
Prepare to turbocharge your memory? Brace yourself for a digital smorgasbord of brain-boosting tools. Platforms like Verywell Mind and Mind Tools offer an array of memory games and tricks that’ll make your brain do the happy dance.
But that’s not all, my memory master. Coursera and Udemy serve up brain-boosting feasts with courses rooted in the latest cognitive science wizardry. Flex those synapses and leave forgetfulness in the dust.
Keep onto your thinking cap, because interactive memory mastery is calling your name. Clockify and the Art of Memory are your trusty sidekicks on this mental adventure. Get ready for a symphony of mental workouts that’ll have your memory performing acrobatics.
5. Virtual Adventures: Exploring the World from Your Couch
Imagine lounging on your couch and suddenly being transported to the Louvre in Paris. No lines, no selfie sticks—just you and the enigmatic Mona Lisa having a tête-à-tête. Thanks to high-definition images and mind-bending virtual tours, this dream has become a reality.
But the journey doesn’t stop at the Louvre. Google and AirPano team up to teleport you to world wonders from the snug comfort of your home.
Strap on your virtual hiking boots for a trek through the Grand Canyon or the awe-inspiring Bryce Canyon—sweat-free. Nature’s splendor is a click away.
Wildlife lover? Say hello to the San Diego Zoo and the Georgia Aquarium, where live webcams bring captivating critters up close.
Hold onto your astronaut helmet, because NASA’s virtual tours offer behind-the-scenes glimpses of space missions and epic lunar landings.
There you have it, fellow adventurers and creative souls. The digital realm beckons, offering artful exploits, memory-enhancing escapades, and globetrotting discoveries—all from the cozy confines of home. Let your imagination roam free and embark on a digital odyssey.
6. Tune In Discovering New Music Online
Numerous platforms can guide you through a wide array of genres and artists. TuneGlue and Music-Map, for instance, can lead you to artists who resonate with your current favorites.
Going a step further, Music Roamer lets you listen to similar tracks right on their site, enriching your musical journey.
One Track Mind and The Hype Machine are fantastic music blogs that let you discover new tunes and learn about the artists behind them.
If you’re looking for a more interactive experience, TheSixtyOne and OurStage allow users to engage, share music, and even have a say in which songs rise to popularity.
7. Lights, Camera, Action: Becoming a YouTube Star from Home
Becoming a YouTube star at home is an enjoyable, productive online activity. It’s about creativity, knowledge sharing, and global connection.
Here’s a quick start guide:
Plan:
Decide what you’re passionate about and want to share. It could be cooking, tech reviews, or daily life.
Equipment:
Start with a good camera or smartphone, a microphone, and basic lighting. Quality video and sound matter.
Create Your Channel:
Set up a YouTube channel with a Google account, a unique name, and basic channel info.
Record and Edit:
Record videos with your audience in mind. Use editing software to make your video engaging.
Upload and Promote:
Upload your video with a catchy title and description. Use relevant tags. Share on social media.
Engage:
Respond to comments, ask for feedback, and build a community around your channel.
8. Connect and Converse: Answering Questions on Online Forums
Engaging in online forums offers a productive way to spend time online. These platforms bring people from around the world together, encouraging discussions on various topics.
Whether you’re into tech and prefer Stack Overflow or enjoy general Q&A on sites like Quora and Reddit, there’s a forum tailored to your interests.
Participating in these forums isn’t merely a time-waster; it’s a valuable endeavor. By answering questions, you share your knowledge, assist others, and also gain insights in return. The exchange is mutually beneficial since you can also ask questions and receive diverse perspectives.
Furthermore, these websites serve as valuable learning resources. From coding challenges to philosophical debates, you can find threads covering a wide array of subjects.
Besides learning, consistent and thoughtful contributions can establish you as an authority in your field, enhancing your online presence.
9. Virtual Parties: Hosting Netflix Parties and Game Nights
You can spend time online hosting virtual parties. Streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney Plus, Hulu, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime all support group chat through Teleparty (formerly Netflix Party).
Here’s how it works:
Install Teleparty:
You start by installing the Teleparty extension on your computer.
Pin Teleparty:
Once installed, you’ll see the “Tp” button next to your address bar. If not, click on the puzzle icon next to the address bar and pin the “Tp” button to your Chrome toolbar.
Open a Video:
Go to your preferred streaming site and open a video. For instance, you can go to Netflix and choose any show you want to watch.
Create a Teleparty:
Click on the red “Tp” icon next to the address bar, then click “Start Party” to get the party started. You can then share the party URL to invite friends.
Join a Teleparty:
To join a party, click the party URL, which redirects you to the streaming site. In the address bar, click the “Tp” button to join the party.
10. Making New Friends: Social Platforms for Meeting New People
Making new friends online is a productive way to beat boredom. Here are some platforms to help:
Hey! VINA:
A platform for women to connect based on shared interests and host events.
Meetup:
Meetups are held worldwide, connecting people in the same city through a variety of activities.
Nextdoor:
Community engagement and in-person meetings are encouraged through a neighborhood hub.
Peanut:
A social network for women, especially moms, acts as a support group for various topics.
Facebook:
The platform is widely used for making friends, joining interest groups, and keeping up with local events.
11. Get Fit at Home: Online Workouts to Try
Many fitness platforms offer a wide range of workouts, from high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to calming yoga sessions.
No gym equipment? No problem. Many classes require no equipment at all. Just your body and some motivation.
12. Mindful Moments: Online Meditation and Yoga Classes
You can explore the world of online yoga and meditation classes when you are free. These classes offer a unique blend of physical exercise and mental relaxation that can be a productive use of your time.
The yoga classes, such as those offered by Ekhart Yoga and Glo, provide a range of exercises suitable for beginners and advanced yogis. You can choose from various yoga styles, such as Hatha, Vinyasa, or Ashtanga, and follow along at your own pace.
Meditation classes, which include those from The Yoga Institute and Mindful.org, guide you through mindfulness practices that can help reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance overall well-being.
These classes often include guided meditations, breathing exercises, and tips for incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine.
13. Virtual Volunteering: How to Give Back from Home
Virtual volunteering is a fantastic way to give back to the community from the comfort of your own home. It’s not just about donating money; it’s about donating your time and skills to causes that matter.
Numerous platforms like VolunteerMatch, Points of Light Global Network, and UN Online Volunteering offer remote volunteering opportunities.
Become a crisis counselor for Crisis Text Line or translate texts for Translators Without Borders. If you’re bilingual, you can help translate medical texts and crisis responses. If you’re good at listening and providing emotional support, you can help people in crisis.
You can also support local communities. Check on high-risk neighbors, donate supplies to hospitals, or even donate blood. Support local nonprofits with tasks research, writing, editing, or social media management.
