Some days, we simply have “extra” time on our hands that we shouldn’t waste. After all, boredom can often spark lots of new ideas. Idleness does not need to be a source of frustration – it can also inspire you to try things that you have wanted to do for a long time. So before you settle down on the couch to binge-watch your next series, have a read of our 5 top tips for alleviating boredom. After all, using every minute can lead to greater contentment!

Tip 1: Enjoy some creative downtime

Maybe primary school was the last time you had a craft scissors and an ink brush in your hands and creativity is an alien concept for you? Then it’s high time for a new beginning. Several craft trends are currently booming – many people are crafting, sewing and writing. You will find plenty of instructional videos online: perfect for beginners. Whether it’s hand lettering, macramé or journalling – why not give something a try. With just a few tools you might even find a new hobby. You don’t have to produce perfect works of art. When it comes to creative activities, it is a case of just keep practising! You also get to share ideas with kindred spirits who have the same interests. This can be extremely relaxing and is a great way of keeping boredom at bay.

Tip 2: Learn something new

No matter what your area of interest is, there is guaranteed to be plenty of useful information about it online. Nutrition, finance, gaming, mindfulness, literature – these are just some of the areas in which you can expand your knowledge in an enjoyable way. Blogs or podcasts are the perfect means of doing this, enabling you to learn almost without noticing. They are also a great source of inspiration for daily life. Reading or listening are definitely good ways to stave off boredom. By the way, this Dole blog is a particularly good all-rounder – you can browse the various categories or search for a particular topic directly in the search field. You will be surprised at how many ideas for a healthy lifestyle that you will come across.

Tip 3: Take on a sporting challenge

Boredom can generate creativity and motivate you to achieve excellent results. Instead of pursuing meaningless activities, sport can be a perfect way of tackling boredom. So simply take on your own very personal challenge and you will soon be celebrating your own success. Be brave – you will get there with patience and persistence! Try a handstand, practise the splits, learn to hula hoop or hold a plank for at least 2 minutes. It’s always difficult to start with but these sporty challenges don’t give boredom a chance.

Tip 4: Discover the cuisines of the world

Cooking not only serves to nourish us but is also an experience for all the senses. If you are bored, why not investigate the origin, flavours and culture of the food that you are eating? Dare to try some Asian, Mediterranean or South American cuisine and surprise your taste buds! Anyone who does not live only on fast food or ready-made meals gets a very different feel for their food and thus eats more consciously. So make sure to give this a try to combat boredom. How about Mexican black bean salsa, vegetarian spring rolls, or an Asian bowl with grapes?

Tip 5: Turn your balcony into a dream island

There’s no place like home! There’s a lot of truth to this proverb. After all, you have complete freedom to design the space within your own four walls as you like it and make it really cosy. This also applies to an area that is often neglected – the balcony. Our tip to relieve boredom: make your balcony into a creative oasis of well-being. You don’t need much to do this. Make some cool seats out of pallets, some pretty materials or an outdoor rug; cushions, Chinese lanterns and candles ensure a real holiday feeling. Of course, plants are a crucial accessory for your “island”. And if you do want to be bored once in a while – enjoy it on your dream balcony.

Seize the day!

Your Dole Team