50 Things To Do Other Than “Doom Scroll”

With the election just a few weeks ago, many people have found themselves falling victim to the "doom scroll." According to cambridge.org, doom scrolling is, "the activity of spending a lot of time looking at your phone or computer and reading bad or negative news stories." Doom scrolling adds to high levels of anxiety, depression, and even feelings of anger and distress. If you find yourself allotting too much time in your day for negativity, maybe it's time to make a change and set boundaries with your devices and when you use them. Although it is important to stay in tune with the latest news, it is just as important to stay in tune with yourself. Look inward to determine your needs, do some soul work, and make room for humor as we give the world a chance to catch up. So, here’s 50 things to do instead of doom scrolling: 1. Try out a new recipe 2. Read that book (or 12) you’ve been meaning to get to 3. Get some fresh air (go for a walk, sit in the sun) 4. Play video games 5. Ever thought about writing a book? Do it 6. Get the board/card games out 7. Journal your thoughts 8. Do a guided yoga video on YouTube 9. Organize your kitchen 10. De-clutter your closets 11. Take a bath 12. Make a face mask 13. Start a DIY project around your house 14. Experiment with photography 15. Go through your computer files 16. Go through your pictures (I'm sure you have some doubles in there) 17. Change your phone/computer background 18. Create new playlists with your favorite songs 19. Have a movie marathon (build a fort) 20. Practice mindfulness (meditate, slow down for a day) 21. Create a home workout routine 22. Video chat a loved one 23. Find a new thrift store or locally owned business in your town 24. Paint/draw 25. Start/join a virtual book club 26. Have a spa night/day 27. Bake something new 28. Take an online class for something you’ve been wanting to learn about 29. Call a friend or family member 30. Experiment with your makeup/hair 31. Make a vision board 32. Set new goals to change your life (ideal routines, things to do) 33. Write a letter or poem for someone you love 34. Rearrange your spaces like the bedroom, living room, or the entire house 35. Strategize your finances 36. Listen to a new podcast 37. Get some much needed sleep! 38. Write a letter to your future self 39. Start a new challenge (eating clean, no coffee, going makeup free) 40. Play indoor soccer, ping pong, etc. 41. Learn a dance routine 42. Binge-watch a new series 43. Start a memory box 44. Organize/de-clutter your important papers 45. Reminisce on childhood photos and videos 46. Sew the holes in those sweaters…(or learn how to sew) 47. Whip out the arts and crafts and make something fun 48. Have an indoor picnic 49. Learn a new language 50. Deep clean your house If you ever find yourself mid-doom scroll, or catch yourself reaching for your phone for the 15th time today, maybe opt for one of these activities instead! Before you know it, when you're feeling stressed or bored, your phone will become the last thing you reach for.