As a wife, busy mom of three, and small business owner, I understand the struggle of getting that down time for yourself. Between running kids back and forth between activities, watching my youngest, juggling clients, and spending time with my husband, it’s rare to find time with myself - unless I make it happen. And a lot of times when we find ourselves with nothing to do we resort to food. Do you ever find that when you are busy that you may forget to eat. And that when we are bored in front of the TV, we immediately crave something to snack on?

I use to resort to retail therapy and shopping at Target or the mall. It seems that most activities cost money. Especially a fun afternoon of impulsive shopping. In the moment that splurge may make us feel better and occupy our time. But later, we may feel buyer's remorse.

There are so many other things we could do in this time that are productive and extremely positive activities. And I'm finding that positive experiences don't have to cost a lot from our weekly budget. Below are fifty FREE things do with your time other than snack. Pick a few that speak to you and keep yourself busy for the next couple of hours.

  1. Go for a run
  2. Read a book
  3. Write a to do list
  4. Visit a community park
  5. Take a photo shoot
  6. Start a blog
  7. Flip through a magazine
  8. Find a recipe online
  9. Replace/frame photos
  10. Paint your nails
  11. Write down your goals for the next week/month/year
  12. Meet a friend for walk
  13. Clean out your garage
  14. Knit or crochet
  15. Exchange massages with your partner
  16. Meal plan
  17. Take your dog for a walk
  18. Create a spa day at home
  19. Check out a trial gym membership
  20. Go fishing
  21. Volunteer
  22. Plan your workouts for the next week
  23. Research online for professional development opportunities
  24. Mow your yard
  25. Clean out your nightstand
  26. Have a walking meeting
  27. Have a financial date with your partner
  28. Random acts of kindness
  29. Visit a state park
  30. Attend a free fitness class
  31. Update your child's baby book
  32. Find a free Facebook event
  33. Pack a picnic lunch
  34. Garden
  35. Shred paperwork
  36. Go on a bike ride
  37. Complete a Pinterest project
  38. Work on your monthly budget
  39. Geocaching
  40. Discover a new trail
  41. Play a board game
  42. Rake leaves
  43. Volunteer at your kids school
  44. Box things up and deliver a donation
  45. Declutter a room
  46. Visit your local library
  47. Find free fitness workouts online
  48. Use an adult coloring book
  49. Write a handwritten letter or send a card
  50. Change over your closet for the season