Things to do this Spring that aren’t Doom Scrolling
Written By : Grace Weidenhamer
I spent all week thinking about what to write. In search of “inspiration,” I, of course, turned to my old faithful—TikTok. But as I scrolled endlessly, barely watching more than two seconds of any video, I realized I wasn’t finding inspiration at all. Frustrated and uninspired, I put my phone down and decided to go for a run.
Ironically, just as I finished my run, paused my podcast, and waited to cross the street, it hit me—exactly what I needed to write about. The moment I stepped away from my phone and went outside, the idea came effortlessly.
So, in the spirit of taking my own advice, here’s a list of things to do this spring that aren’t doomscrolling.
1. Get Outside—Go for a Walk or Run
This one’s obvious because I just mentioned it. But seriously—go on a walk or a run. Sometimes, I need the entertainment on a long run, but I typically take my walks sans headphones. It’s refreshing to hear the world around you without background music or podcasts, and it forces you to be mindful—the opposite of doomscrolling.
On an episode of Giggly Squad, Paige talked about “color walks,” where you pick a color and mentally note every time you see it. It’s like adult I Spy. I walk the same street every day and still found new details I’d never noticed before playing this little game.
2. Try a New (or Old) Skill
You don’t have to master something new—just pick up an old hobby or try something you don’t do often. Dust off your bike and take it for a spin, head to the golf course and take some swings at the range, or bring a sketchbook to a park and draw what you see. You don’t have to be good at it. The goal is to step out of your routine and reconnect with old passions.
3. Go Thrifting or Antiquing
Anyone else’s house feel a little blah after taking down holiday decorations? A space refresh is the perfect spring activity. Find colorful vases for fresh flowers, recreate a Pinterest outfit with only thrifted items, and even donate clothes from your spring cleanout. It’s a fun way to switch things up without breaking the bank.
4. Volunteer in Your Community
If you have the time, look for local volunteer opportunities. Websites can match you with organizations that need help, whether it’s walking dogs at a shelter, helping at a community garden, or reading to elementary school kids. Not only does it give you something meaningful to do, but it also connects you to your community and makes you feel good.
5. Plan Something Fun
This time of year feels like the perfect moment to plan something exciting. Organize a summer girls’ weekend, a fun date night at the ballpark, or a dinner party. Personally, I’m dreaming of a Nancy Meyers-inspired gathering—fresh flowers, homemade baked goods, and sparkling refreshments.
However you choose to spend this season, I hope you put down your phone, step away from the endless scrolling, and go live your life.