If you’re anything like me, there’s nothing that you hate more than waiting around. Sitting on a plane waiting to take off, waiting in line at the grocery store, waiting to see a doctor, waiting for your car to be fixed at the garage… I don’t have much patience for any of these things, really. Recently, I’ve come to the realization that when I’m in these situations, I can’t change what’s going on. However, the one thing I can change is my mindset. Changing my thoughts from “this is a huge waste of my time” to, “this is valuable time for me to do something I normally would not do” has helped me feel a lot more content and less anxious about these wasted waiting moments. It’s all about seeing the “wasted” time as an opportunity to accomplish something new. Keep reading below for 18 things to do when you’re killing time.

1.) Read a book.

I’m still dying to read this one.

2.) Listen to a podcast.

I love these inspiring podcasts by Jess Lively and also, these crazy and insightful podcasts from the #AskGaryVee show.

3.) Get to know the people around you.

Ask them questions. Learn about what they do, where they’re from, what they ate for breakfast. Hey, it’s all good networking!

4.) Paint your nails.

I always try to have a bottle of nail polish in my purse because you never know when you’ll have enough time to do a quick coat. Currently loving, Apres-Chic.

5.) Walk around.

Even if it’s in circles, at least you’re getting in those extra steps.

6.) Organize your phone.

Get rid of old photos, messages, update your Apps, etc.

7.) Text a friend.

When you’re killing time, text your friends and let them know you’re thinking of them. (This is my go to).

8.) People watch.

Seriously, there’s nothing more entertaining than observing humans.

9.) Let yourself day dream.

Jot down ideas, thoughts and dreams. I like to keep a notebook with me most of the time and if you don’t have one, just use your phone.

10.) Flip through a trashy magazine.

Get in on the dirty celeb gossip. Last I heard, Kim and Kanye had their baby boy (no name yet!)

11.) Catch up on blogs.

Bloglovin’ is my favorite way to keep track of all the blogs I love.

12.) Be creative and doodle.

There is no one who does this better than my sis. When we’re waiting around she always whips up an awesome drawing on a napkin or on the back of an old receipt.

13.) Plan.

If you’re waiting around, make a mental to do list, make a meal plan for the week, make weekend plans, etc. A few minutes spent planning will help set you up for a productive and fulfilling week.

14.) Pray.

When I’m waiting around, I like to talk to God. Tell him things your thankful for and pray for people who are on your mind.

15.) Download a new App.

This weekend, someone told me about Gif Keyboard. It’s hilarious!

16.) Call your grandparents.

Because no one deserves a phone call more than your grandma does.

17.) Find new Instagram accounts to follow.

Be inspired by others. In fact, here are 8 dreamy Instagram accounts you need to follow.

18.) Appreciate the fact that you’re learning patience.

After all, it’s a virtue ;-)

I’d love to know, what do you do when you’re killing time?