[Solo Time] A roundup of ways to kill time without using your smartphone
You can do just about anything with a smartphone these days—keeping in touch with people, surfing the web, watching videos, even working.
But every now and then, you might find yourself wondering about this lifestyle of relying on your phone for everything.
In this article, we’ve put together some boredom-busting ideas to support your intention to “put your phone down and try something different” as a little change of pace.
It’s not quite a full-on digital detox, but you might be surprised at how refreshing it feels once you give it a try.
Start with a small try!
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“Me-Time” Non-Smartphone Ways to Kill Time (1–10)
mini drone
How about trying a mini drone that you can easily enjoy indoors during spare moments or when you’re bored? It’s perfect for those who are interested in drones but find full-fledged models a bit intimidating, as well as for anyone who wants to start studying them seriously from here on out.
The model in the video is packed with high-end features—such as a camera, multicopter functionality, and flip mode—yet costs under 10,000 yen, which makes it very affordable.
Above all, its mini size makes it cute and easy to grow attached to! Since the built-in camera lets you shoot videos and photos, it’s a great choice if you want to play around casually—definitely give it a try.
muscle training
How about trying some ab workouts to build a six-pack during your alone time or to kill time? When we spend more time at home, it’s easy to become inactive.
That’s why training you can do right at home is so appealing.
This video features seven exercises that mainly target the abs, including the rectus abdominis and obliques.
Each is designed to be done for six minutes, but if it’s too tough, feel free to take breaks and don’t push yourself.
Consistency is key in strength training! Let’s aim for your ideal six-pack!
Hand-ground coffee
If you love coffee, you probably want to grind your own beans with a mill and enjoy a great cup! When your eyes are tired from staring at your phone, refresh yourself with an exquisite café time.
This video is recommended for anyone who wants a coffee mill but isn’t sure which one to choose, or who wants to learn about the different types.
From electric and manual mills to outdoor mills, it explains everything carefully—from the types of mills to how to brew coffee.
You’re sure to find a mill that suits your taste, so give it a watch for reference!
[Solo Time] Smartphone-free ways to kill time (11–20)
Candle making
How about handmaking candles—perfect for room decor or gifts—during some solo time without your smartphone? The appeal is that they’re easy to make using items from the 100-yen shop like candles, crayons, essential oils, and parchment paper! Melt the candles, color them with crayons, and pour layers of different colors to set; you’ll end up with cute, pop-style candles that look adorable.
If you use cutters, you can also make variations like hearts or stars, so you can create candles in your favorite shapes!
spring cleaning
I recommend doing a deep clean as a way to spend your free time without using your phone! For people who don’t like cleaning, it can feel like a major event.
Precisely because you have a little downtime now, why not tidy up your place and feel totally refreshed? Spending time in a clean room boosts both your mood and your performance compared to staying in a messy one.
In this video, we share clever, easy cleaning tips that cover every corner of your home—from starting with the bathroom to the living room, screens and windows, carpets, floors, and wet areas.
Be sure to use it as a reference!
Making dried vegetables
Why not try making nutrient-rich “dried vegetables” easily at home? Of course, vegetables are great raw or cooked, but drying them concentrates their nutrients! You might not often get the chance to make them, so it’s perfect for spare moments.
The process is simple: just cut your favorite vegetables—like burdock root, carrots, eggplant, onions—and dry them.
Use a mesh drying net you can even find at a 100-yen shop, and hang it in a well-ventilated place.
They should be almost completely dry in about two days.
Dried vegetables are delicious in soups and simmered dishes, so give it a try!
Finger Challenge
@yoshi_biyou_kogao Finger Challenge: Extra Edition!!#tiktok trainingThe Wonders of the Human BodyFinger Challenge
♬ Jumbled Mix 2024 with APT – MACHO (Macho)
The “finger challenge” looks easy at first glance, but once you try it, it’s surprisingly hard.
For example: “Can you hold your index finger down with your thumb and bend only your pinky without moving the others?” or “Put your hand flat on the desk and try lifting only your ring finger.” The structure of your hand gets in the way, so your fingers won’t move as you expect, and it’s tougher than you’d think.
It’s funny at first, but more and more people start getting serious as they go—that’s what makes this game so fun.
Since it uses no tools and makes no noise, it’s perfect for a sneaky little distraction or a quick refresher during class!
