Ways To Pass The Time When You Have To Wait In Line
The idea of standing in line for anything less than a lottery win is probably not your idea of a good time. It is likely something you dread. Unfortunately, even with increasing opportunities to have the things you want delivered directly to your front door, there will always be reasons to wait in line. Luckily, there are ways you can occupy your time that will eliminate the impending frustration and resulting boredom. It is time to reframe your approach to waiting. Read on to learn some helpful tips.
Play a Game On Your Phone
That little computer in your pocket is the perfect boredom-buster you can pull out anytime, especially when standing in a line. It is small, accessible, and ready to play a single-person game such as Solitaire. You do not even need to download an app to your smartphone – open the browser and start playing.
Pro tip: Use these games as a way to challenge your mind. You can track your time in the game and try to beat it when waiting in line.
Move Your Body
Most people have a goal to exercise more and become a healthier version of themselves. If you fall into that category, you should seize opportunities to incorporate more movement into your daily activities seamlessly. One of the easiest ways to do that is when you are feeling captive in a line. You can perform various exercises quietly and efficiently, including calf raises and low-range standing leg raises.
Pro tip: If you are in a crowded queue and do not feel comfortable exercising, you can still benefit from working on standing upright to improve your posture.
Watch this video to learn some easy, quick, and discreet exercises you can do while waiting in line.
Look Around
As you stand in the queue, take a few moments to look around. Even if you are in a store waiting to reach the Customer Service desk, there may still be something intriguing to see. Anything from someone you know or a great sale in the next aisle could be waiting for you to take notice.
If you are in line with a friend or family member, play a fun game of I Spy. If you are wondering if this is a kid’s game, it certainly is; however, it can be a fun way to pass the time no matter how old you are or who you are with. Give it a try before you count it out altogether. It is a great way to connect with someone.
Pro tip: Looking up and around the area you are in gives you more opportunities to learn about the environment around you and explore something new.
Read a Book
Reading is always a good idea. Not only does it pass the time, but it enriches you, as well. Throw a book in your bag or purse along with an extra bookmark, just in case. If carrying around a physical book will be too cumbersome, there are a multitude of apps you can download to your smartphone. Set this up in advance, download some books, and they will be waiting for you whenever you need them.
Pro tip: Check your local library. Many libraries offer free access to one or many of these apps. Apply for a library card to get started.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is probably something you think of when seeking solace and calm. It can also be harnessed for stressful situations like waiting for service. As you stand there, begin by making yourself comfortable. Zip or unzip your jacket, put your gloves in your pocket, settle your bag securely on your body, and put your phone safely in your pocket. Now stand so you are not locking your knees to reduce your chances of falling over. Next, take deep breaths and focus on your feelings while trying to block out the noise around you. Keep your eyes open and center your mind on clearing your thoughts.
Pro tip: Do not expect to be fully in the moment when practicing mindfulness in public, as you still have to pay attention to your surroundings. You can, however, achieve calm through this practice.
Try these tips to make your daily errands more bearable and even fun. You no longer need to dread going to the DMV or waiting in line to make a purchase. Use these ideas to stay busy and stave off boredom.
