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Some days staying in bed feels irresistible. When the weekend arrives, I’m often ready to lounge in bed all day, especially during the winter season when it’s dark and cold outside. But if I need to be productive, I’ve found that there are plenty of tasks to conquer right from the comfort of my own bed.
It’s important to separate sleep and work spaces, but weekends often beg for a little rule-breaking (I mean, who can resist breakfast in bed?). So if you want to stay cozy while you work, I’ve curated a list of 20 productive things you can do without leaving your bed. Most of these tasks are incredibly easy to complete; you’ll be surprised how many of these things you can accomplish in just 15 minutes. Continue reading to discover 20 ways to be productive this weekend, no matter where you are.
20 Productive Things to Do From Your Bed
1. Organize Your Inbox
If your inbox is cluttered with unread emails and endless junk mail, then this is the perfect time to organize it. Delete old and unwanted emails, and unsubscribe from newsletters and promotional emails. Answer important emails or follow up on pending conversations. Create folders to thoughtfully arrange your messages.
2. Catch Up on Current Events
Staying informed about what’s happening in the world is so important if you want to educate yourself and discuss current events with others. Get up to date on local and global news by watching your preferred news channel or scrolling through your favorite publications. Explore podcasts covering current events or specific topics of interest to you.
3. Create a Wish List
To spend your money more thoughtfully, you should consider creating a wish list. Use your time in bed to curate a wish list for items like clothing, beauty products, and home goods that you’d like to purchase in the future. Search Amazon, your Pinterest boards and your favorite sites for lusted-after items. When you’re clear on what you want and need, you’ll avoid spending on items that aren’t too important.
4. Send a Thank You Note
Expressing gratitude is always time well spent. Write a short note or send a quick text to someone who you would like to thank. Whether it’s colleagues, friends, or family members, there is always someone who can use some positivity and appreciation in their life.
5. Review Your Bank Statements
Be smart about your finances, and review your bank statements. Review your recent transactions to ensure accuracy and check for unrecognized purchases. You might consider categorizing your purchases and reviewing your spending habits. Note each transaction by category, then evaluate your spending habits and consider adjustments if needed. Make short-term and long-term financial objectives to work towards.
6. Journal
Grab a notebook or open your notes app and write. Here are a few easy ways to make journaling a relaxing, joyful exercise:
Gratitude journaling. Write down things you're grateful for or positive moments from your day.
Dream life journaling. Record your dreams or aspirations. Try scripting about your ideal life.
Reflective journaling. Dive into thoughts, ideas, or challenges you're facing and explore possible solutions.
Creative journaling. Write a short poem or story.
7. Update Your Passwords
If you’ve gotten into the habit of using the same password for every account, then consider changing your passwords. Use a manager like Keeper or LastPass so you don’t have to memorize them all. You can also strengthen security measures by activating two-factor authentication where possible. You’ll keep your accounts and information much safer.
8. Plan a Menu for the Week
Why not organize a menu for the week from bed? Scroll through Pinterest or flip through your favorite cookbooks and plan your meals for the upcoming week. Review your selected recipes and write a grocery list with all the ingredients you’ll need. Just don’t try this one on an empty stomach!
9. Give Yourself a Manicure
Grab your file, cuticle oil, and nail polish, and treat yourself to a simple manicure. This is perfect if you’re already watching a TV show or just relaxing in bed. You’ll appreciate having freshly groomed nails without having to go to the nail salon.
10. Learn Something New
If there is a skill you’ve always wanted to learn, then take an online course or watch educational videos to broaden your knowledge. Learn how to code your own website, discover new pilates moves, or find out the secrets to perfectly baked focaccia bread. For any subject you’re interested in, there is certainly a video about it. I’m currently learning the art of ink drawing.
11. Organize Your Devices
Are your digital devices in need of a refresh? Start by deleting old photos and videos from your camera roll, then get rid of any unused apps. Update your background and add stylish widgets and icons for a fresher design. Organize your digital files. Finally, make any updates to your computer or phone.
12. Read
Instead of watching TV, dive into a captivating book or catch up on articles, news, or your favorite blog. By expanding your mindset on a subject, you’ll feel much more productive. If you don’t like reading books, try an Audible membership to listen to books.
13. Declutter Your Bag and Wallet
Toss out old receipts, last week’s grocery list, and anything else cluttering your purse or wallet. You’ll have much more space in your bag and have less stuff to carry around with you. Organize any cash and cards in your wallet. Refill your gum and tissue supply.
14. Create a Playlist
If you never seem to have the perfect playlist when you’re on your morning commute, doing your makeup or working out, consider creating a Spotify playlist. Use your downtime in bed to create playlists. Add a catchy title, and cover, and start adding new songs. Here are three essential playlists everyone needs:
Mood boosting playlist. Compile songs that energize and lift your spirit.
Focus playlist. Gather songs that help you concentrate and stay productive during work or study sessions.
Relaxation playlist. Curate a list of calming songs that help you unwind and de-stress after a long day.
15. Update Your LinkedIn Profile or Resume
Add new skills and experiences to your resume. Post about accomplishments or events you’ve attended on LinkedIn. Network with individuals in your field and/or from your school or work. Investing time into these tasks will help you incredibly in your career, and they are incredibly easy to do in bed.
16. Pin to Your Pinterest Boards
If you’re planning an upcoming trip, searching for new recipes, or just need some inspiration, make a Pinterest board and add relevant pins. Read any posts you save now or later. If you’re already a Pinterest veteran, you might also reorganize your boards.
17. Meditate
Refresh your mind, body and soul by meditating from the comfort of your bed. Try an app like Calm or Headspace or search YouTube for hundreds of free guided meditations to reduce stress and enhance focus. Practice deep breathing techniques to relax and center your mind. If you’re seeking some calmness in your life, meditate to reset your mind and think more positively.
18. Create a Capsule Wardrobe
If you’ve been needing to update your wardrobe for the new season, then consider creating a capsule wardrobe to make getting dressed a breeze. Browse Pinterest for outfit inspiration, then create a list of your must-have pieces. Shop your favorite online stores to find the items you need and add them to your wish list.
19. Organize Your Calendar
Managing your schedule efficiently can significantly boost productivity. Here's how to organize your calendar effectively:
Review and prioritize. Do a brain dump of any upcoming appointments, events, birthdays and trips, then add them to your calendar.
Set reminders and deadlines. Use your preferred calendar app or planner to set reminders and deadlines for crucial tasks or meetings.
Time blocking. If you have new projects or goals, block off time to work on them.
And if you find that your calendar is a little sparse, plan some seasonal activities or trips.
20. Detox Your Social Media
If you use social media often, you might need to detox it every once and a while. Unfollow or delete people you no longer wish to follow. Find inspirational and uplifting people to friend or follow. Delete old pictures or posts that radiate negativity.
Remember, while being productive from bed is convenient, it's equally important to find balance and incorporate movement and outdoor activities into your routine for overall well-being.
Whether it's a lazy Sunday morning or a weekday when you need extra comfort, these activities can turn your bed into a cozy spot to be productive. So, grab your laptop, journal, or tablet and make the most of your time while lounging in bed.
What are your tips for staying productive? Let me know in the comments below.
