21 Productive Things To Do on the Phone When Bored

In today's fast-paced world, it's no surprise that boredom can sneak up on us at any moment, especially when we have our phones within arm's reach. However, instead of succumbing to mindless scrolling or unproductive habits, why not transform those idle moments into opportunities for growth and productivity? Your smartphone, often seen as a tool for distraction, can actually become a powerful ally in your journey toward personal improvement.

Consider this: your phone is equipped with a multitude of apps and features that can aid in learning, organization, relaxation, and overall personal development. Whether you're stuck in a waiting room, commuting, or simply lounging at home, there are countless ways to make your phone work for you rather than against you. From educational resources to meditation tools, from creative outlets to productivity apps, the possibilities are endless.

To help you harness the full potential of your smartphone, we've compiled a comprehensive guide on 21 productive things you can do on your phone when bored. These activities not only promise to make your downtime more engaging but also contribute to your overall well-being and personal growth. So, get ready to turn those mundane moments into enriching experiences and discover how your phone can be a gateway to a world of knowledge and mindfulness.

21 Productive Things To Do on the Phone When Bored

1. Learn a New Language

Have you ever dreamed of speaking another language? With language learning apps like Duolingo or Babbel, that dream can become a reality right from your phone. These applications make it easy and fun to start picking up a new language, offering short, interactive lessons that fit perfectly into your daily schedule. Even dedicating just a few minutes a day can significantly improve your vocabulary and fluency over time.

Imagine impressing your friends with your ability to converse in Spanish, French, or even Japanese, or using your new language skills while traveling. Language learning apps often gamify the learning process, making it engaging and rewarding with each milestone you achieve. This approach not only keeps you motivated but also makes the process enjoyable.

Moreover, learning a new language can open doors to new cultures and perspectives, enriching both your personal and professional life. So, the next time you find yourself bored, why not take a virtual trip around the world and start learning a new language? Your future self will thank you for it!

2. Read an eBook

Getting lost in a good book is one of the most rewarding ways to spend your time. With eBook apps like Kindle or Google Play Books, you can carry an entire library in your pocket. These apps offer a vast array of genres and topics, from best-sellers to educational materials, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Reading not only improves your knowledge and comprehension skills but it’s also a great way to unwind and relax. Whether you’re into fiction, non-fiction, self-help, or technical books, spending a few minutes reading each day can significantly enrich your mind. Plus, eBook apps often come with features like adjustable font sizes, background colors, and even text-to-speech, making reading convenient and accessible for everyone.

Next time you're bored and reach for your phone, consider diving into a new book. You’ll find that it’s a delightful way to pass the time and, who knows, you might just discover a new favorite author or stumble upon ideas that can transform your life.

3. Listen to Educational Podcasts

Podcasts have become a popular medium for education and entertainment, offering a plethora of content on virtually any topic you can think of. Platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts make it easy to subscribe and listen to educational podcasts that pique your interest. Whether you’re curious about history, science, business, or self-improvement, there’s a podcast out there for you.

Listening to podcasts is a great way to maximize your time, especially during activities like commuting, exercising, or doing household chores. It makes those routine tasks feel more enriching and enjoyable while feeding your curiosity and broadening your knowledge. Many podcasts feature experts and thought leaders who share their insights and experiences, providing you with valuable information and inspiration.

So, next time you’re bored, pop in your earphones and tune into a podcast. Not only will you learn something new, but you’ll also spark your imagination and keep your mind engaged. It’s a productive way to spend your time that promises unlimited learning potential.

4. Organize Your Calendar

Staying organized is key to managing a busy life, and calendar apps like Google Calendar or Microsoft Outlook can be incredibly helpful in this regard. Use these tools to plan your schedule, set reminders, and organize upcoming events. This not only keeps you on track but also helps reduce stress by ensuring you don't miss important deadlines or appointments.

Taking a few moments each day to update and review your calendar can make a significant difference in your overall productivity. You can categorize your events, set recurring reminders, and even share your calendar with family or colleagues to keep everyone in the loop. Plus, many calendar apps integrate with other productivity tools, like task managers and notes, for a seamless organizational experience.

When you’re bored, instead of aimlessly scrolling through social media, consider taking a proactive approach to managing your time. Organize your calendar, plan your week, and set goals for yourself. It’s a small investment of time that can yield substantial rewards in terms of efficiency and peace of mind.

5. Meditate

In our hectic lives, finding moments of calm and clarity is essential for our mental well-being. Meditation apps like Headspace or Calm offer guided sessions that can help you practice mindfulness and reduce stress. These apps provide a variety of meditation techniques, from deep breathing exercises to visualization, making it easy for you to find one that resonates with you.

Even just a few minutes of meditation each day can have profound effects on your mental health, improving your focus, reducing anxiety, and promoting a sense of inner peace. The structured sessions guided by soothing voices can make meditation accessible even for beginners. Plus, many apps also offer sleep aids, calming music, and gratitude exercises to enhance your overall well-being.

So, the next time you’re feeling bored or overwhelmed, take a break to meditate. You’ll find that it’s a fantastic way to recharge your mind and body, allowing you to approach your daily tasks with renewed energy and perspective. Remember, your phone can be a powerful tool for inner serenity, waiting to be tapped into with just a few clicks.

6. Learn a New Skill

Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses on a wide range of skills that you can learn at your own pace.

Imagine having a classroom right in the comfort of your home, where you can study anything under the sun, from digital marketing to advanced calculus. That’s the magic of platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning. These platforms bring an abundance of knowledge directly to your fingertips, allowing you to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule. No more rushing to catch up with a class or worrying about timetables; you control your learning experience.

Exploring these platforms can feel like a treasure hunt. With a plethora of free and paid courses available, you’ll find something to ignite your curiosity and passion. Maybe you've always wanted to dive into graphic design, understand the intricacies of machine learning, or master the art of public speaking. These platforms offer courses from industry experts and top universities, ensuring that you’re learning from the best in the field.

The benefits extend beyond just acquiring knowledge. Engaging in these courses can significantly boost your resume and LinkedIn profile, making you more attractive to potential employers. Plus, the sense of accomplishment you get from completing a course and gaining a new skill is profoundly rewarding. So, why not take that step and enroll in a course that piques your interest? The world of learning is vast, and it’s just waiting for you to dive in.

7. Exercise with Fitness Apps

Get your body moving with fitness apps like MyFitnessPal, Fitbit, or Nike Training Club.

Who said staying fit and active needs to be a chore? With fitness apps like MyFitnessPal, Fitbit, and Nike Training Club, staying in shape becomes an enjoyable and motivating part of your daily routine. These apps are designed to fit into your lifestyle seamlessly, providing customized workout plans and tracking your progress to keep you motivated.

MyFitnessPal is fantastic for those who like to keep an eye on their nutrition as well as their exercise habits. It provides an easy way to track your calorie intake and offers insights into your eating patterns. Fitbit, on the other hand, is perfect for those who love tracking every step they take. With features that monitor your heart rate, sleep patterns, and more, it’s like having a personal trainer on your wrist.

Nike Training Club offers a wide range of workouts designed by top trainers. Whether you enjoy high-intensity interval training (HIIT), yoga, or strength training, there’s something here for everyone. What's more, these apps often come with a community of like-minded individuals, offering support and encouragement along your fitness journey. So why not download one today and start making those positive, healthy changes in your life?

8. Declutter Your Phone

Organize your apps, delete unused ones, and clean up your photo gallery to free up storage space and improve phone performance.

Is your phone feeling a bit sluggish? It might be time for a good digital declutter. Just like tidying up your room can give you a sense of clarity and peace, organizing your phone can make it run more smoothly and efficiently. Start by going through your apps and deleting any that you no longer use. You might be surprised at how many unnecessary apps are taking up space on your device.

After tackling the apps, it's time to move on to your photo gallery. We all love snapping pictures, but over time, they can pile up and take a toll on your storage. Go through your photos and delete the ones that are duplicates, blurry, or no longer needed. Organizing your photos into albums can also make it easier to find your favorite memories in the future.

Decluttering your phone not only frees up storage space but also improves its overall performance. A tidier phone can lead to faster operation and a more pleasant user experience. Plus, it gives you a fresh start and a sense of accomplishment. So, carve out some time for a bit of digital decluttering—you’ll feel lighter and more organized.

9. Read News Articles

Stay informed by reading news articles from reputable sources through apps like The New York Times, BBC, or Reuters.

In today's fast-paced world, staying informed is more important than ever. Reading news articles from reputable sources like The New York Times, BBC, or Reuters not only keeps you updated on current events but also broadens your perspective on global issues. These apps deliver quality journalism right to your device, making it easier to stay connected with what's happening around the world.

The beauty of using these apps is in their convenience. You can catch up on the latest news during your morning commute, over a cup of coffee, or while waiting in line at the grocery store. The ability to access in-depth analysis, investigative reports, and breaking news anytime, anywhere ensures that you never miss out on important updates.

Moreover, these news apps often provide features like personalized news feeds, notifications for breaking news, and options to save articles for later reading. This customization allows you to tailor your news intake to your preferences, ensuring that you’re always reading content that truly interests you. So go ahead, download one of these apps, and make staying informed a daily habit.

10. Practice a New Recipe

Cooking apps like Tasty or Yummly can provide step-by-step recipes for you to try out new dishes.

There's something incredibly satisfying about whipping up a delicious meal from scratch, and with cooking apps like Tasty and Yummly, experimenting in the kitchen has never been more fun. These apps offer an array of recipes, from quick weeknight dinners to elaborate gourmet dishes, all with easy-to-follow instructions. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, there's something for everyone.

Tasty, known for its engaging recipe videos, shows you each step visually, making it easier to follow along and replicate the dish. Yummly takes it a step further by suggesting recipes based on your dietary preferences and the ingredients you have on hand. This personalization ensures that you’re always cooking meals that suit your taste and dietary needs.

Trying out new recipes can be a wonderful way to expand your culinary skills and discover new favorite dishes. Plus, cooking at home is often healthier and more cost-effective than dining out. So why not make a fun evening of it? Put on your apron, fire up one of these apps, and enjoy the delightful process of creating something delicious. Happy cooking!

11. Play Brain Games

Boost your cognitive skills with brain games from apps like Lumosity or Elevate. These apps offer a variety of fun and engaging games designed to challenge your memory, attention, flexibility, and problem-solving skills. By spending just a few minutes a day playing these games, you can give your brain a workout and keep it sharp.

Not only are these brain games beneficial for cognitive development, but they are also enjoyable and entertaining. Whether you are waiting for a friend at a café or unwinding after a long day, these games provide a perfect way to relax and engage your mind. The best part is that they come with personalized training programs that adapt to your performance, ensuring that the challenges remain stimulating and rewarding.

On top of gaming fun, using brain games can build confidence and improve performance in everyday tasks. You'll notice improvements in your mental agility, faster reaction times, and an overall better ability to handle complex tasks. So, why not give them a try and see how much you can grow?

12. Financial Management

Use budgeting apps like Mint or YNAB (You Need A Budget) to keep track of your finances and plan your budget. These apps are like having a personal financial advisor right in your pocket, offering insights into your spending habits and helping you set financial goals.

Mint, for example, allows you to connect all your bank accounts, credit cards, and bills in one place. It automatically categorizes your transactions, providing a clear picture of where your money is going each month. You can set budgets for different categories, track your progress, and receive alerts for unusual spending or upcoming bills, making it easier to stay on top of your finances.

YNAB takes a slightly different approach by encouraging you to allocate every dollar of your income to a specific purpose, ensuring that you are intentional with your spending. The app offers educational resources and community support to help you build better financial habits. By using these tools, you can reduce financial stress, save more money, and achieve your financial goals more effectively.

13. Network on LinkedIn

Update your LinkedIn profile, connect with industry professionals, and engage with posts to build your professional network. LinkedIn is a powerful tool for career development, offering endless opportunities to connect with colleagues, potential employers, and thought leaders in your field.

Start by making sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date and reflects your current skills, experiences, and accomplishments. A well-crafted profile acts as your online resume and makes a strong first impression on visitors. Don't forget to add a professional photo and a compelling headline that highlights your expertise.

Once your profile is polished, actively seek out connections within your industry. Join relevant groups, participate in discussions, and comment on posts that resonate with you. Share your own insights and articles to showcase your knowledge and engage with your network. By being proactive on LinkedIn, you can expand your professional circle, stay informed about industry trends, and even discover new job opportunities.

14. Volunteer Online

Explore online volunteering opportunities via platforms like VolunteerMatch or the United Nations Volunteers program to give back to the community. Volunteering online is a fantastic way to make a positive impact without leaving the comfort of your home.

Platforms like VolunteerMatch connect you with various nonprofit organizations in need of virtual assistance. Whether you have skills in graphic design, writing, marketing, or even just a passion for helping others, there are countless opportunities to contribute. Volunteering can be as simple as providing mentorship to students, helping translate documents, or participating in virtual fundraising events.

United Nations Volunteers program offers a wide range of projects that align with global development goals. By volunteering with the UN, you can play a part in addressing critical issues such as education, health, and human rights on an international scale. Engaging in online volunteering not only enables you to make a difference but also allows you to develop new skills, gain valuable experience, and connect with like-minded individuals worldwide.

15. Journal

Use apps like Day One or Journey to keep a digital journal where you can write down your thoughts, experiences, and reflections. Journaling is a wonderful practice for self-reflection, mental clarity, and personal growth. Digital journaling apps offer a convenient and versatile way to maintain this habit.

Day One, for instance, provides a beautifully designed interface that makes journaling a pleasure. You can add photos, location data, and even weather information to your entries, creating a rich and detailed record of your life. The app also allows you to set reminders, ensuring that you don't miss a day of journaling.

Journey offers similar features but includes additional tools like mood tracking and goal setting. This app is perfect for those who want to combine journaling with personal development practices. Both apps offer secure cloud storage, so you never have to worry about losing your precious entries.

Reflecting on your day through journaling can help you process your emotions, recognize patterns in your thoughts and behavior, and gain insights into your personal experiences. It can be a deeply therapeutic practice, offering a safe space to express yourself and track your journey over time.

16. Plan Your Next Trip

Planning your next vacation can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. With travel apps like Airbnb or TripAdvisor, you have access to an extensive array of resources that can simplify the process. These apps offer a wide range of accommodations, from quaint bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels, ensuring there's something for everyone. With detailed reviews and ratings, you can confidently choose a place that suits your needs and preferences.

Beyond accommodations, these apps are treasure troves of travel experiences and activities. Whether you're looking for family-friendly excursions, romantic getaways, or solo adventures, you'll find countless suggestions to enhance your trip. User-generated content such as travel itineraries, tips, and recommendations can guide you in creating a personalized adventure that aligns perfectly with your interests.

Moreover, the interactive maps and location features in these apps make exploring new destinations a breeze. You can mark attractions, book tours, and even make dinner reservations all within one platform. This seamless integration not only saves you time but also helps in making well-informed decisions, ensuring your trip is both enjoyable and memorable.

17. Study for Exams

Preparing for exams doesn't have to be daunting with the right tools at your disposal. Educational apps like Quizlet and Khan Academy provide a range of study aids designed to make learning both effective and enjoyable. Quizlet, for example, offers flashcards, games, and practice tests that cater to all learning styles, helping you retain information better and study more efficiently.

Khan Academy offers an extensive library of lessons on a plethora of subjects, from math and science to history and economics. Each lesson is crafted to be engaging and easy to understand, often accompanied by videos, quizzes, and interactive elements. This approach allows students to grasp complex concepts at their own pace, making studying less stressful and more enjoyable.

Additionally, these educational apps often have communities and forums where students can collaborate, ask questions, and share resources. This sense of community can be incredibly motivating and can provide support during intense study periods. With these tools, you'll be well-prepared and confident when exam day arrives.

18. Track Your Health Goals

Keeping track of your health and fitness goals has never been easier with apps like MyFitnessPal and Apple Health. These apps offer comprehensive tools to monitor your diet, exercise routines, and overall wellness metrics. By logging your daily meals, you can gain insights into your nutritional intake, helping you make more informed dietary choices.

Setting and tracking fitness goals is another key feature of these health apps. Whether you're aiming to lose weight, build muscle, or simply maintain a healthy lifestyle, you can set personalized goals and receive tailored recommendations. MyFitnessPal even offers a vast database of exercises and foods, making it simple to keep accurate records of your progress.

Moreover, the real-time data and analytics provided by these apps can be incredibly motivating. Seeing your progress visualized through charts and graphs can give you the encouragement needed to stay on track. Plus, with the ability to sync with wearables and other health devices, you can get a holistic view of your fitness journey, making it easier to achieve your health goals.

19. Enhance Your Photography Skills

If you've ever wanted to capture stunning photographs, look no further than apps like Skillshare and YouTube tutorials. Skillshare offers a wide range of photography courses taught by professionals, covering everything from basic camera settings to advanced editing techniques. These courses are typically broken down into easy-to-follow lessons, making it simple to progress from a novice to a skilled photographer.

YouTube is another excellent resource for enhancing your photography skills. With countless channels dedicated to various aspects of photography, you can find tutorials on portrait photography, landscape shots, lighting techniques, and more. Many of these tutorials are accompanied by real-world demonstrations, giving you practical insights into the art of photography.

Additionally, engaging with communities on these platforms can provide valuable feedback and inspiration. Sharing your work and receiving constructive critiques from fellow photographers can help you refine your skills and develop your unique style. With these resources at your fingertips, you can transform your photography from a hobby into a professional-level craft.

20. Participate in Online Surveys

Earning some extra cash or gift cards has never been easier with online survey apps like Swagbucks and Survey Junkie. These platforms offer a straightforward way to make money by sharing your opinions on products, services, and general topics. By dedicating just a few minutes of your day, you can accumulate points that can be redeemed for various rewards.

The surveys available on these apps cover a wide range of topics, ensuring that there's something interesting for everyone. Whether you're passionate about technology, fashion, or food, you're likely to find surveys that match your interests. This makes the process not only lucrative but also enjoyable, as you're sharing your thoughts on subjects you care about.

Moreover, participating in these surveys can be a way to influence the products and services you use daily. Companies rely on consumer feedback to improve their offerings, and your opinions can help shape future developments. With the added bonus of earning rewards, participating in online surveys is a win-win situation.

21. Create a Vision Board

Crafting a vision board has never been easier with digital tools like Canva and Pinterest. These apps provide an abundance of templates, images, and design elements that can help you create a personalized vision board that reflects your goals, aspirations, and interests. Whether you're visualizing career milestones, travel dreams, or personal growth, these tools make it simple and enjoyable.

Canva offers extensive design features that allow you to customize every aspect of your vision board. From selecting background images to adding text and icons, you can create a visually appealing board that truly represents your aspirations. The user-friendly interface makes it accessible even for those with no prior design experience.

Pinterest, on the other hand, serves as an endless source of inspiration. By browsing through various pins and boards, you can gather ideas and elements to incorporate into your vision board. The platform also allows you to create and organize boards, making it easy to categorize your goals and track your progress over time. With these digital tools, turning your dreams into a visually inspiring vision board is just a few clicks away.

Conclusion

Your phone doesn’t have to be a distraction. In fact, it has the potential to be far more – a gateway to productivity and personal development. It’s easy to think of our phones as time-wasters, but with the right approach, they can become powerful tools for self-improvement and achieving our goals. It’s all about how you choose to use your device. By taking control and being intentional, your phone can help you make every moment count.

Consider engaging in any of these 21 activities whenever boredom strikes. Whether it's learning something new, organizing your digital life, or diving into a creative project, there are endless ways to turn idle time into a treasure trove of opportunities. Each activity is designed to help you grow, stimulate your mind, and enhance your skills. Instead of mindlessly scrolling through social media or getting lost in a sea of notifications, you can opt for something more fulfilling and productive.

So, why not start exploring these productive tasks today? Make the conscious decision to harness the power of your phone for good. Transform those spare minutes into valuable moments of personal growth and creativity. The next time you find yourself reaching for your phone out of habit, take a minute to choose a more mindful and enriching activity. You'll soon realize that with a little effort, you can make the most out of every moment and pave the way for a more productive and satisfying life.