One of the best ways to be productive and organized is to use the in-between times well. Instead of scrolling, you could be doing something useful. I still scroll and check my phone of course, but adding in some of these kinds of productive tasks helps my life run more smoothly.
Here are some ideas on when you can work on these five-minute tasks. In the kitchen, you can do one while waiting for something to cook in the microwave or in between stirring something on the stove. And the living areas if the kids are playing nicely you can squeeze one in. Other good times are if you’re in between bigger tasks or just need to walk around for a minute.
If you’re in the office, you can do a task in between Pomodoro time blocks, or if you’re waiting on a meeting or call to begin. For the other miscellaneous stuff, if you’re waiting somewhere for an appointment or in the grocery line, a lot of these are easy things you can do from your phone to fill in those waiting minutes.
And finally, for self-care these are quick things you can do whenever you need a minute to recharge. It’s always a good option to use a few extra minutes to take care of yourself.
In the Kitchen
- Quick wipe down of cabinets
- Wipe down counters
- Pantry inventory
- Plan next few meals
- Clean out a drawer or cabinet
- Unload dishwasher
- Load dishwasher
In the Bathroom
- Wipe down counter
- Wipe down shower
- Wipe down toilet
- Quick sweep/mop of the floor
In the Living Areas
- Change bedsheets
- Switch laundry
- Straighten up out of place items
- Make your bed
- Declutter a few items (Grab my free decluttering checklist)
In the Office
- Clean out email inbox (Here’s how to organize your inbox)
- Clean up your desk
- Back up your computer
- Back up your phone
Miscellaneous Tasks
- Review your calendar for the week
- Write out top 3 goals for the week and day (Here’s a goal setting guide)
- Unsubscribe from emails
- Unfollow social accounts
- Delete apps you don’t use
- Check bank account
Self-care Tasks
- Listen to your favorite song
- Sit in silence for 5 minutes
- Positive affirmations
- Diffuse essential oils
- Hug a loved one
- Drink a glass of water
- Stretch
- 5-minute dance
What other productive tasks would you add? How do you usually use those “in-between” minutes?
