Break the Scrolling Habit: 6 Smart Ways to Use Your Time in Public Spaces
Thanks to my very enthusiastic dog and a squirrel with zero self-preservation instincts, I spent three hours at the doctor’s office yesterday getting my sprained pinky looked at (don’t worry—just a splint).
But the real pain? Checking my screen time after.
Six and a half hours.
Three of them were spent scrolling Instagram, Reddit, and random corners of the internet while sitting in that waiting room. That’s a whole movie—or a nap, or a book, or a phone call.
It hit me: scrolling has become the default.
Doctor’s office? Scroll.
Coffee line? Scroll.
Friend goes to the bathroom while you’re out to dinner? Scroll.
And most of the time... we’re not even enjoying it.
So, I made a Waiting Room Survival Guide—aka smart, low-effort ways to pass time in public without doomscrolling. These work anywhere you’d normally reach for your phone just to kill time. Some use your phone with purpose, others don’t use it at all.
🧰 6 Things to Do Instead of Scrolling in Public
📚 1. Read a Book or E-Book
Use the Kindle app, an actual Kindle, or go old-school with a paperback.
Best for: Waiting rooms, airports, or any long sit-downs.
Why it helps: Mentally engaging, reduces screen anxiety, and feels productive.
📞 2. Call or Voice Note a Friend
Like, with your actual voice.
Best for: Quiet parks, benches, or anywhere you won't get weird looks.
Why it helps: Builds connection and breaks the isolation of solo scrolling.
🧹 3. Clean Out Your Photos App
Delete duplicates, old screenshots, and blurry brunch pics.
Best for: Literally anywhere—even five minutes helps.
Why it helps: Decluttering = dopamine hit. Plus, frees up storage.
💬 4. Talk to a Stranger (If You’re Feeling Bold)
A quick compliment or comment can turn into a fun convo—or at least a smile.
Best for: Short waits—coffee lines, bus stops, crosswalks.
Why it helps: Makes you feel more present and less robotic.
🚶♀️ 5. Take a Short Walk
Got 10 minutes to kill? Stretch your legs with a loop around the block.
Best for: Sidewalk-friendly areas or neighborhoods.
Why it helps: Physical movement is a natural stress reset—and no screen needed.
🗣️ 6. Learn a Language or New Skill
Open Duolingo, Anki flashcards, or even a bite-sized article.
Best for: Solo waits or commutes.
Why it helps: Turns downtime into learning time. Bonus points if you speak a new phrase by the end of it.
The Takeaway: Use Screen Time on Purpose
Three hours of idle scrolling is a lot—but it’s also normal these days. The trick is not to eliminate phone time, but to make it intentional. Next time you catch yourself reaching for your phone out of habit, try one of these alternatives instead.
You might just reclaim your day, one public wait at a time.
