Stuff to Do at Work When Bored: Smart Ways to Stay Sane and Entertained
Boost your mood and sharpen your mind with these clever ideas for stuff to do when bored at work; perfect for breaking up the monotony and staying engaged.
We’ve all been there. You’re staring at your screen, refreshing your inbox, waiting for a task that never comes. The minutes crawl, the silence buzzes, and you start wondering if time has simply stopped. Being bored at work doesn’t mean you’re lazy, it just means your brain is looking for something to do. That’s when the right distractions matter most.
There are things to do while bored at work that are not only entertaining but also productive, satisfying, and surprisingly good for your mental health. Whether you’re in an office or working remotely, tapping into this downtime is an opportunity, not a setback. Let’s explore the little joys and clever tricks that make long workdays feel lighter.
10 Fun Things to Do at Work When Bored
Getting bored at work is more common than we’d like to admit. Sometimes you’ve wrapped up all your tasks, your teammates are focused on their own projects, and you’re left wondering what to do with your extra time. Instead of drifting into a social media black hole, why not lean into activities that refresh your brain and brighten your day?
When everyone else is buried in their work, this is your chance to make the most of that lull. These fun things to do at work when bored are ideal for solo enjoyment, keeping you engaged while recharging your mental batteries. A bored mind doesn’t have to be an idle one.
1. Play on Your Computer at Work
This calming card game blends brain-boosting strategy with immersive storytelling. It’s not just about clearing cards; it’s about engaging your mind and emotions through a gentle, unfolding narrative. Perfect for quick, meaningful breaks.
2. Tidy Your Digital Desktop
There’s something oddly satisfying about going through your download folder and cleaning up the chaos. Sort files into their proper homes, delete what you don’t need, and give your desktop a fresh new look. It’s a simple act that brings surprising relief and clarity to your day.
3. Write a Future Email
Send your future self a message filled with goals, gratitude, or a few uplifting thoughts. Use a service like FutureMe to deliver it months or even years later; it's a small act of self-kindness that can spark hope and reflection when you least expect it.
4. Stretch at Your Desk
Do some light stretching, shoulder rolls, gentle twists, neck tilts, to ease tension from sitting all day. Pilates-inspired movements can help with posture and stiffness. Even a few minutes between meetings can work wonders for your body and focus.
5. Create a Quick Brain Dump
Jotting down whatever’s on your mind can be incredibly refreshing. Whether it’s a meeting that didn’t go as planned or thoughts about your next project, writing it down clears mental clutter and helps you move into your next task with focus and calm.
6. Listen to a Micro-Podcast
There’s nothing quite like escaping into a totally random podcast; something completely unrelated to work. Whether it's quirky banter, unsolved mysteries, or a soothing audiobook, tuning in for 20 minutes can melt away tension and refresh your focus.
7. Decorate Your Workspace
A plant, a photo frame, some art or toys; candles, flowers, or a cosy lamp. Your workspace should feel like a place you want to be. Whether you’re at home or in an office, small touches can make your space feel inspiring, comfortable, and entirely yours.
8. Take a “Silent Walk”
If you’re bored of the usual break routine, try a silent walk. Just you and your thoughts, moving with intention. Without screens or sound, your senses come alive, your circulation improves, and your brain gets the refresh it didn’t know it needed.
9. Try a Mind Game
Puzzle apps, word games, or quick riddles are excellent ways to reset your brain. They keep your mind active and curious, offering just the right dose of mental stimulation without draining your energy; perfect for a mid-day refresh.
10. Sketch Something Random
Doodle your coffee mug, a dreamy landscape, or a quirky imaginary animal. Let your pen wander; no talent required. It’s a creative reset that relieves tension and sparks light-hearted focus in just a few strokes.
11. Build a To-Do List for Tomorrow
Mapping out tomorrow’s tasks can bring a comforting sense of structure. It’s a simple way to quiet racing thoughts, tie up loose ends, and ease the mental load of what’s ahead; letting you end the day with clarity and begin the next with purpose.
12. Read a Short Article
Reading a book can be quite the length when it comes to taking breaks. It can beat boredom at work, but it’s always best to read some short article with beginning and end that won’t leave you intrigued or desperate to read more. Maybe an essay or a short story are also good options. But there’s such a wide variety of articles out there one could spend hours reading them.
13. Organize Your Inbox
Organizing your email can be just as satisfying as tidying your desktop. Labelling, tagging, and archiving messages not only clears clutter but also makes future searches smoother. A clean inbox can quiet your mind and streamline your workflow.
14. Browse Online Courses
There’s always time to search for courses. Whether it’s something new you’d like to try or something related to your work, there’s a vast variety of platforms offering quick classes. Take time to browse, compare options, and find one that truly excites you. Learning something new is one of the best ways to re-engage your mind.
15. Make a “Happy Folder”
Create a "Feel-Good Folder" with kind words, proud moments, and uplifting photos. When the day feels heavy, open it for a dose of perspective and warmth; a gentle nudge to remind yourself of what truly matters and how far you’ve come.
Boredom at Workplace
Boredom at the workplace isn’t always about laziness or lack of ambition. Often, it hits when you’re ahead of schedule, or when the mid-week lull sets in. You’ve completed your tasks, the emails are slow, and you’re tethered to your desk with nowhere to go. It’s frustrating, but it can be flipped into something positive.
That boredom is a window of opportunity. Whether you’re in an office cubicle or working remotely, using that downtime to reset, learn, or do something creative helps you stay mentally agile. These moments aren’t wasted; they’re investments in your wellbeing and energy.
When I Am Bored at Work…
Sometimes, I catch myself zoning out between tasks, thinking, “I am bored—again.” It’s not that I don’t care about my job. I do. But some days just stretch longer than others. That’s when I reach for small rituals that restore focus; like a cup of tea or a few minutes of Solitaire.
Solitaire with a story has become my go-to escape. It’s quiet, satisfying, and lets me feel like I’m progressing through something; even if the day feels stuck. The gentle puzzles, paired with narrative flow, help me recharge without leaving my desk. It’s my secret weapon for overcoming boredom at work.