There Is Such a Thing as Free Time: Allowing Yourself to Be Bored in Summer

In the fast pace of modern life, moments spent doing nothing have become almost a luxury. Especially if you're known for your productivity, having free time can often bring a sense of guilt. Yet doing nothing is not laziness as it’s often assumed to be; it can actually be a mental reboot.

Free time is frequently associated with inefficiency or a lack of creativity. However, it is in fact one of the most fertile grounds for nurturing creativity. When we are in a constant state of production, it's hard to take a step back and view what we’re doing with perspective. But when we pause, we can break free from the chaos and see the bigger picture. It’s just like shutting down and restarting a computer: the brain needs room to breathe, to reset. This way, the creative process becomes healthier, deeper, and more innovative.

Summer is the perfect time to take these pauses. Spending some time doing absolutely nothing—just lying on the couch, rewatching a movie you’ve seen a dozen times, or finally starting that series you’ve been putting off… Maybe just staring at the ceiling with a bowl of snacks. These moments, though seemingly simple, can help you realize what you truly need—physically and mentally.

For some, boredom is a scary feeling. But perhaps what’s actually frightening is the act of truly stopping. Facing boredom is a chance to hear your inner voice. However, it’s important to make a distinction here: consciously created free time is not the same as falling into an empty void unwillingly. The former nourishes, renews, and strengthens you; the latter is often a symptom of inner turmoil.

That’s why making time to be idle, taking the risk of being bored, and giving yourself space simply to “be” is crucial—not only for personal growth but also for any creative process. Because sometimes, doing nothing is the very first step toward doing everything all over again.