How to Have More Free Time (no matter how busy you think you are)
Think back to grade school.
Do you remember that delicious moment when the final bell would ring, marking the end of the school day? The excitement of racing home to relax or meeting friends for after-school activities?
As children, we embraced our free time with so much joy—it was almost sacred. But somewhere along the way, as school desks were replaced with work desks, our “free time” became more about what we have to do rather than what we want to do.
Our society glorifies productivity, which can create a stigma around free time. As adults, we have more responsibilities, but does that really mean we should lose the excitement and joy that comes with free time? Why do we feel so guiltywhen we’re not working, even in our downtime?
Is It Really About "Too Little Time"?
The truth is, most of my clients— just like everybody else —actually have “enough” free time. But they don’t feel like they do. The reason? They never feel truly “at leisure.” And I’ve been there too.
We get trapped in the treadmill of our own thinking, and it steals the joy out of any free moment we have.
Our culture values productivity, but that same productivity can also pile on a lot of pressure. When I was raising my daughter alone, I felt guilty at work for not being with her, and guilty at home for not thinking about work. Even self-care felt like another task on my to-do list, and that stressed me out even more.
Do you ever feel that way? Does your mind keep racing, thinking about the next thing, even when you try to relax?
Overthinking Is the Real Time Thief
Let me give you an example: I once had a client who spent most of his free time thinking about his work problems. When I asked him about it, he felt guilty for not spending even more time thinking about them! He believed that by overthinking, he would find a solution. But in reality, he was only getting stuck, missing out on time with his family, and losing perspective.
Have you ever felt like that? Like you’re constantly overthinking your problems, but it’s just making you feel more overwhelmed?
Overthinking is the most unproductive way to solve any problem. It’s like walking east in search of a sunset—no matter how hard you try, you’re not going to get there.
The Power of Letting Go
So what do I do when I catch myself overthinking a problem? I completely let go of it. I take a deep breath, clear my mind, and get present. And after some time—when I’ve almost forgotten about the problem—the best idea on how to solve it comes from within.
Have you ever experienced that? Maybe while you’re in the shower, washing the dishes, or scrolling through your Instagram feed? It’s in those quiet moments that clarity often appears.
Think of it like clearing muddy water: you don’t try to force the mud to settle—you let it rest. The water becomes clear on its own, and so will your mind if you give it space.
The Benefits of Free Time
Studies show that free time is not only good for you—it’s essential. Free time is linked to a healthier immune system, reduced stress, and even a longer life. It also helps you develop a deeper sense of self and self-efficacy, which is your belief in your own ability to handle life’s challenges.
If you need more reasons why sometimes the most productive thing you can do is take a break, here are four:
#1: Free Time Empowers You
Free time doesn’t have to mean lying on the sofa (though no judgment if it does!). The most beneficial free time is when it’s mentally engaging. Whether it’s cooking, playing an instrument, or doing something creative like knitting, the point is to do something you enjoy.
And here’s the bonus: the skills you develop out of interest can improve your skills at work. In fact, over 80% of employers say creativity is one of the most important qualities they look for in the workplace.
Do you ever feel guilty for taking time to do things just for you? What if you saw it as an investment in your own creativity and growth?
#2: Free Time Energizes You
Did you know that leisure activities bring about a kind of positive stress called “eustress”? This type of stress engages you and helps you find your flow—that state where you’re so engrossed in what you’re doing that you lose track of time.
So, the next time you feel uninspired at work, try taking a break. Go for a walk, sit in nature, journal, or dance to your favorite song. Refocusing your energy on something playful will help you return to your tasks with a fresh perspective.
#3: Free Time Reduces Emotional Stress
Leisure activities have been shown to reduce physical symptoms of stress, like high blood pressure, and they can also reduce emotional stress. When you step out of your routine, it interrupts the cycle of overthinking and anxiety.
Make free time a priority—even if it’s just once a week. Put down your to-do list and do something spontaneous and fun, just for you. You’ll feel your stress levels drop, and your mind will be clearer for the long term.
#4: Free Time Boosts Your Social Network
Try swapping a solo activity for something more social. It could be a cooking class, dance group, or book club. When you engage in activities that interest you, you naturally meet people with shared values and build a stronger social network.
Surrounding yourself with people you genuinely connect with makes you feel more supported and resilient. And a solid social network buffers against stress, leaving you more optimistic in the face of challenges.
Investing in Your Leisure Is Investing in Yourself
When you invest in your leisure time, you’re investing in your own growth and well-being. Exploring interests outside of work reminds you that it’s never too late to try something new, and it fosters a growth mindset, making you feel more resilient and capable.
What’s one thing you could do today to carve out some intentional free time?
Enjoy your free time—you’ve earned it!
PS: Ready to Dive Deeper?
Connect with me on Instagram @MrsBimako for more insights on balancing success with inner peace, or check out these related articles to continue your journey:
- 7 Secrets to Reclaiming Confidence that Successful Women Already Know: Discover how to build unshakable confidence by aligning your life with your true values.
- 85 Fall Journal Prompts to Embrace the Cozy Season: Find emotional clarity and self-awareness through reflective journaling this autumn.
How to Have More Free Time (no matter how busy you think you are) Read More »