Things to do on night shift instead of scrolling when you have downtime

I find that 90% of my impulse shopping online is directly linked to me scrolling during downtime at work. Being a nurse, there is not a ton of downtime, but nights do tend to be a little quieter.

While there are a few other things you should be doing first ;) these are some things that have helped me pass the time when I quite literally have nothing else to do. Normally I check on my patients or check on my coworkers, but if everyone is good here are a few things you can do instead of scrolling or shopping.

Take a walk around the unit

This is an easy way to work your body. You can even pop in some headphones and listen to a podcast or audiobook.

Read a book

I have recently gotten back into reading and it is such a fulfilling way to spend time. You can read anything you want, from self improvement to fiction if you are looking for a break from reality. This is also a very budget-friendly hobby if you use your local library. 

Go over your budget

You should always do this. If you have not reviewed your budget recently, you need to.

Do a spending audit

Best way to not spend is to figure out what you have been spending on. This could be an enlightening task because you may realize you are spending in areas that you do not need to be. Are you using that subscription that charged $15 to your checking last week? Are you buying more in groceries than you did last month? What has changed?

Unsubscribe from email lists and texting marketing

They always get you with the deal. “Give us your email for 20% off your first order” Then the emails start and never stop. Spend a little time unsubscribing from all your marketing emails. You may want to consider having a “fake” email that you do not look at to send those pesky marketing emails to if you feel so inclined to sign up for the deal.

Make a list of wants

I always tell people this! It is so easy to not “accidentally” buy things when you do not have a list you go by. You should make a list of your wants verse needs and when you do your budget determine how much money can comfortably go to each. This way if you happen upon a deal, you will know if it’s within your means to purchase it.