What to Do When You Have to Wait

Have something interesting to read on hand because you never know when you'll have to wait.

Pack some good reading material in your bag or purse.

For years, I’ve been bringing a book or a magazine with me wherever I go. (Yes, I carry this with me along with a notebook and pen.) You never know when you’re going to have a few minutes (ahem, long lines at the grocery store, long car rides when someone else is driving, long waits at the doctor’s office).

You know that book that has been on your nightstand for years that you’ve been meaning to read? Take it with you when you know you’ll be waiting for something or someone, and replace the time you would be scrolling through your phone with reading.

I’m on screens all the time, so I like to read something tangible—a book or a magazine— instead of looking at my phone during these inevitable waiting periods. For me, it’s a much-needed break from the digital world, so in a way, I’ve come to welcome waiting.

To calm my nerves when waiting during my maternity appointments, I used to bring my own reading materials.

Bringing your own things to read is a great way to pass the time. You’re going to be waiting anyway, so why not catch up on a little self-care by bringing something you've been meaning to read but just haven’t found the time to do it.

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Practice It: Bring Something to Read With You Everywhere You Go This Week

When you find yourself waiting, take out your book or magazine and read some pages while waiting.

Even if you don’t think you have time for self-care, you can incorporate it into things you're already doing. Get a copy of my award-winning books 108 Yoga and Self-Care Practices for Busy Mamas and How to Stay Calm in Chaos: An Everyday Self-Care Guide to read about self-care while practicing self-care.