50 things You Can Do Instead Of Doomscrolling

Ever since I got my first smartphone, I’ve spend a lot of time scrolling on my phone. Lately, though, I’ve been trying to break that habit and drastically reduce my screen time. Why? Because I want to spend my time in a better way. I want to focus on the things that genuinely matter to me and work towards the goals I want to achieve.

But when you start cutting back on doomscrolling, you quickly realize just how much time you’ve actually been spending on your phone. Suddenly, you have all this extra free time, and you might find yourself wondering what to do with it. After all, you don’t want to replace doomscrolling with boredome.

Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. I’ve put together a list of 50 things you can do instead of doomscrolling to help you spend your free time doing things you enjoy, discover new hobbies, and maybe even work towards some of your personal goals. Who knows? You might even find a new favorite activity.

50 Things You Can Do Instead Of Doomscrolling

1. Start learning a new language. Maybe try Spanish, Italian, or Korean.
2. Learn basic sign language. It is a useful skill to have.
3. Watch a documentary. Choose a true crime documentary, or explore something completely different.
4. Write a poem. It doesn’t matter what it’s about. Just let your creativity flow.
5. Write a story. Have you always wanted to write a book or a short story. This is the perfect time to start.
6. Play a board game. Get out Monopoly or another favorite board game and have some fun.
7. Read a book. Find something you enjoy and get lost in a good story for a few hours.
8. Learn a new recipe. You might discover a new favorite dish.
9. Make a scrapbook. Collect your favorite memories in one place. Add photos, concert tickets, and other little keepsakes.
10. Start journaling. Write down your thoughts and feelings. It can be especially helpful when you are going through a difficult time.
11. Paint something. No pressure, and no need to be perfect. Just enjoy the process.
12. Make a vision board. Put your dreams and goals on a board where you can see them every day.
13. Make friendship bracelets. Create a few bracelets and give them to your best friends.
14. Rearrange your bedroom. Sometimes, changing your surroundings is all you need to give your space a fresh vibe.
15. Write a letter to your future self. Reflect on your life right now and see how much you’ve grown when you read it in the future.
16. Solve a murder mystery. There are so many great murder mystery and puzzle books to choose from these days.
17. Make a new playlist. Create playlists for every mood, season, or situation.
18. Decorate for the season. Add a few seasonal decorations to give your home a different vibe.
19. Start a gratitude journal. Write down a few things you are grateful for each day. Practicing gratitude can help you appreciate the little things in life.
20. Create a bucket list. Write down all the things you want to experience, try, or achieve in your life.
21. Do something from your bucket list. Pick one thing you’ve always wanted to do and make it happen.
22. Make a wishlist. Add all the things you’d love to have, from books to cozy home decor.
23. Start a blog. Create your own little corner on the internet and write about the things you are passionate about.
24. Start a YouTube channel. Film your everyday life, share advice, or create videos about something you love.
25. Start a TikTok or Instagram account. Make short-form content just for fun and see where your creativity takes you.
26.  Go book shopping. Browse a bookstore or secondhand bookshop and look for your next great read.
27.  Go thrift shopping. You never know what treasures you will find, and that’s part of the fun.
28. Plan your next trip. Explore a new city or even a different country. You don’t have to book anything yet; just enjoy planning.
29. Color something. There are so many cute coloring books these days. Find one you love and spend some time coloring.
30. Make a cozy drink. Prepare some hot chocolate, tea, or your favorite drink and enjoy it without distractions.
31.  Go for a slow walk. Get some fresh air, enjoy your surroundings, and maybe even say hello to the neighborhood cats.
32.  Do a workout. Get moving, break a sweat, and work on building your strenght.
33.  Stretch for a few minutes. Especially if you’ve been sitting for a long time, your body will thank you.
34.  Water your plants. Your little green friends need some attention too.
35.  Clean your house or bedroom. Give your space a deep clean. There is something so satisfying about relaxing in a clean room.
36.  Sit down and daydream. Let your mind wander and imagine the life you want to create.
37.  Play a video game. Play with friends or enjoy some solo gaming time.
38.  Watch a movie. Pick something new or rewatch an old favorite and enjoy the experience.
39. Start watching a new TV show. Find a series that sounds interesting and watch the first episode.
40. Talk to a friend. Call your best friend, catch up, or make plans to meet in person.
41. Organize your bookshelf. Arrange your books by color, alphabetically, or by genre.
42. Listen to an entire album without doing anything else. Put on your favorite album, put your phone away, and enjoy the music.
43. Do a jigsaw puzzle. Challenge yourself to compete a 1000-piece puzzle. How quickly can you finish it?
44.  Play chess. Challenge a friend to a game or learn how to play if you are a beginner.
45.  Solve a crossword or Sudoku puzzle. Give your brain a little workout while taking a break from screens.
46.  Play cards with someone. Add some snacks and drinks, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a fun afternoon.
47.  Learn a dance just for fun. Find a TikTok dance or a dance tutorial on YouTube and enjoy yourself. No need to get every move right.
48.  Bake something delicious. Try a new cookie recipe, make a cake, or bake your favorite comfort food.
49. Visit your local library. Browse the shelves, discover new books, and enjoy some quiet time.
50. Do absolutely nothing. Lie on the couch, look out the window, or simply enjoy a moment of peace without feeling the need to be productive.

Photo by Vlada Karpovich