go ahead...waste some time
I'm reading a good fiction book right now (This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger). Inexplicably, I feel a bit guilty because it is my third fiction book in a row. I like to mix in nonfiction to feel like I'm "learning" something.
I suspect my compunction about reading for enjoyment is due to years of feeling an intense need to be productive. This has resulted in a misguided belief about what it means to "waste time." There are certainly unhealthy ways to consume our hours (especially when done without moderation) -- i.e. doomscrolling.
But, truth be told we could all benefit from "wasting" a little time each day.
What this looks like will vary based on individual interest, but it might include: watching a show you like, fishing, taking a leisurely walk, watching birds, going for a drive without a destination, reading a good book (fiction or nonfiction), eating ice cream, or doing absolutely nothing. In a world that is plagued by hurry sickness, allowing ourselves the grace to "waste" some time during the day could be a healthy pursuit.
Hopefully, the few minutes you took to read this post end up being a worthwhile waste of your time.
Best wishes!
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