We’ve all been there—staring at the clock, feeling uninspired, and wondering what to do when bored at work. But instead of mindlessly scrolling or zoning out, why not turn your boredom into something fun and productive?
Whether you're looking for ways to gamify your tasks, connect with colleagues, or boost your skills, here are some things to do when bored at work that will help you make the most of your downtime.
15 things to do when bored at work (that are both fun and useful)
So, what to do at work when you’re bored? Here are some simple yet effective ways to stay engaged and get more out of your workday.
1. Gamify your tasks
Turn mundane tasks into a challenge by setting fun personal goals. See how quickly you can clear out your inbox or challenge a coworker to a friendly competition—who can schedule the most meetings in five minutes? Adding a little competition (even just against yourself) can make mundane tasks more exciting.
2. Engage in networking
Why not use your downtime to connect with colleagues or industry peers? Send a friendly LinkedIn message, comment on a coworker’s post, or even strike up a conversation with someone in another department. Networking doesn’t always have to be formal—it can be as simple as commenting on a connection’s post or reaching out with a friendly “Hey, how have you been?”
Read this next: How to Network on LinkedIn Like a Pro
3. Take an online quiz
Find a fun yet relevant quiz—maybe a personality test that helps you understand your work style or a trivia game related to your industry. It’s a lighthearted way to learn something new while keeping your brain engaged.
4. Read industry-related articles
If you're bored at work, use the time to stay informed. Find an interesting blog, newsletter, or news article related to your field. Not only will this make you feel more engaged, but it could also spark ideas for your current projects or make you the go-to person for industry trends.
5. Personalize your email signature
Give your email signature a little personality! Add a fun quote, a professional yet creative tagline, or a link to a recent project you’re proud of. It’s a small tweak, but it can make your emails more engaging and memorable.
6. Start a Slack thread
Bored at work? Break the monotony by creating a fun but work-friendly Slack thread. Share a “win of the week,” a thought-provoking question, or a lighthearted poll (like “What’s your work anthem?”). It keeps communication lively and helps build a more engaged team culture.
7. Make a win list
Instead of focusing on your boredom, take a moment to reflect on your achievements. Create a “win list” of things you’ve accomplished recently, big or small. Not only does this boost motivation, but it can also help you track your progress for performance reviews.
8. Practice using AI tools
AI tools can be both fun and useful. Experiment with AI-powered apps like chatbots, content generators, or productivity boosters to see how they can improve your workflow. You might discover new ways to automate tedious tasks and free up time for more engaging work. Try having AI summarize an article, help draft an email, or generate bullet points for a new presentation.
9. Create a motivational playlist
Music can set the tone for productivity. Besides a focus-boosting playlist, try creating one for different moods—power productivity, deep concentration, or even a “pretend you’re in a movie montage” vibe.
10. Declutter your digital space
Clean up your desktop, organize your files, or clear out your inbox. A tidy workspace (even a digital one) can help reduce stress and improve efficiency.
11. Take a walk-and-talk break
If possible, step outside for a short walk while brainstorming ideas or making a quick call. Movement boosts creativity and focus, making you feel more refreshed when you return to work.
12. Learn a quick keyboard shortcut or hack
Find a new shortcut that speeds up your workflow (like an Excel formula, email template, or presentation design). Challenge yourself to use it for the rest of the day to make it a habit.
13. Plan your ideal workday schedule
Sketch out your “dream workday,” organizing tasks in the most enjoyable, efficient flow. You might discover ways to structure your day for better focus and productivity.
14. Design a personal “out-of-office” message
Even if you don’t need it right now, crafting a creative out-of-office response (fun but still professional) is a great way to personalize your communication when you do take some time off work.
15. Try a five-minute desk stretch or yoga routine
Find a quick stretch or yoga routine you can do at your desk. It helps reduce tension and makes you feel more energized for the rest of the day.
Read this next: How to Practice Mindfulness at Work: 6 Ways to Stay Present
Bored at work? Get stuff done—and enjoy it
Being bored at work doesn’t have to mean wasting time. By adding an element of fun to productive activities, you can make the most of your workday while keeping yourself engaged. Whether it’s gamifying your tasks, networking, or curating the perfect playlist, there are plenty of ways to stay motivated while having fun.