It is amazing how much we depend on the internet. Whether it is for business or play, we expect our connection to be available 24/7. I have no doubt that a lack of connectivity would stress you out, but you need to remember that you do have a life beyond the online world. An interruption from the internet could offer a powerful boost to your overall productivity. Here are 7 productive things you can do when there’s no internet access.
1. Clean Your Computer Clutter
Let’s say you have computer access but the internet is just down. When is the last time you checked your computer for spyware or malware that could be dragging down your computer performance? Go ahead and start up your program of choice and let it make sure you don’t have any viruses. If you’re looking for a suggestion, I’d recommend CCleaner, Malwarebytes, and Microsoft Security Essentials. While that is running, scan through your Downloads and Documents folders. Trash anything you don’t need and organize the rest in folders so you’ll be able to find it with ease. If you have to spend a full minute looking for a file you need, this might not seem like a big deal, but those minutes can add up to a lot of wasted time in the long-haul. Get organized now so you can be more productive in the future.
2. Call a Friend
When is the last time you actually spoke to a close friend? Texting doesn’t count. Dial up a contact, ask how they are doing, and invite them out for lunch. You will come back feeling refreshed and ready to work.
3. Perform a Workout
There is no reason to stare at your computer screen while it cleans up your files, so go ahead and get a workout in so you’ll have more energy when it’s done. You could do a quick body-weight workout including squats, lunges, and push-ups or you could go outside for a run. Have a dog? Treat it to a nice walk at the park if you want to make its day.
4. Read a Book
Are you fired-up and ready to work? Grab a self-help book that will offer valuable insight and motivation to keep your momentum building. Are you a bit exhausted and burned-out? Zone out with some leisure reading that will provide a much-needed distraction.
5. Catch Up on Real Life
When I get caught up in work stuff, my home reflects that fact. Piled-up dishes, a floor in dire need of vacuuming, a car full of random stuff, an empty refrigerator hungry for groceries, a work desk consumed with distracting clutter, and so on. Neglecting these general things builds up mental stress so take this opportunity to take care all of those things you have been putting off.
6. Make a List
If your internet is down and you’re freaking out because you’re already behind, plan ahead to increase focus and alleviate stress. Write down everything you need to accomplish in order of importance. Decide how you will get the essentials done and delay anything that is non-essential. If you’re on a significant time-crunch, you could take your laptop to a coffee shop or library with Wi-Fi so you can get the important things done ASAP and take care of the rest later.
7. Reflect on Recent History
A lack of internet could boost your overall productivity by interrupting your daily schedule. When we get caught up in the hustle of living, it’s easy to forget to think about how effective we are really being. Grab a notebook and write down your thoughts. Could you eliminate unnecessary tasks that offer little benefit to your business? What would happen if you grouped similar tasks together so you could complete them all when you’re in the right frame of mind? Do you have any strengths most responsible for your success that you could use more frequently? Are there any new ideas you’ve been meaning to pursue but haven’t got around to yet? Have you stayed true to your original purpose or have you strayed off the path along the way? A little mindfulness will go a long way to achieving more success.
