We’ve all been there—stuck in a rut, feeling uninspired, and desperately searching for something to do.
Boredom can be a real creativity killer, leaving you feeling drained and unmotivated.
But what if I told you that boredom could be the perfect opportunity to unleash your inner writer?
Writing is a powerful tool for self-expression, and it can be an incredibly fulfilling way to pass the time.
Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting, there are plenty of things you can write when boredom strikes.
Here are 20 aesthetic things to write when you’re feeling bored and in need of some inspiration.
Questions to Inspire Your Writing
Before we dive into the list, let’s take a moment to consider why writing is such a great activity when you’re bored.
Writing allows you to explore your thoughts and feelings, express your creativity, and even learn something new about yourself.
1. A Letter to Your Future Self
Writing a letter to your future self can be a powerful exercise in self-reflection and goal-setting. Take some time to think about where you want to be in 5, 10, or even 20 years, and write a letter to that future version of yourself.
You can discuss your hopes and dreams, your fears and anxieties, and anything else that’s on your mind. This is a great opportunity to set some goals for yourself and imagine what your life might look like in the future.
One variation of this idea is to write a letter to your past self. What advice would you give to your younger self? What lessons have you learned that you wish you had known then? This can be a cathartic exercise that helps you gain perspective on your life and how far you’ve come.
2. A Short Story Based on a Random Object
Look around your room and choose a random object. It could be a pen, a book, a piece of jewelry, or anything else that catches your eye. Now, write a short story based on that object.
You can imagine the object’s history, its owner, or the role it might play in someone’s life. Let your imagination run wild and see where the story takes you.
One mistake to avoid when writing a short story based on a random object is getting too caught up in the details. While it’s important to create a vivid and engaging story, you don’t want to spend too much time describing the object itself. Instead, focus on the characters and the plot.
3. A Poem About Your Favorite Place
Think about your favorite place in the world. It could be a city, a park, a beach, or even your backyard. Now, write a poem about that place.
You can describe the sights, sounds, and smells of the place, or you can focus on the emotions it evokes in you. Use vivid imagery and descriptive language to paint a picture in the reader’s mind.
One variation of this idea is to write a poem about a place you’ve never been but have always wanted to visit. Use your imagination and research to create a vivid and evocative poem.
When writing a poem about your favorite place, avoid using clichés or generic descriptions. Instead, focus on the specific details that make the place unique and special to you.
4. A Journal Entry About Your Day
Sometimes the most mundane things can be the most interesting to write about. Take a few minutes to reflect on your day and write a journal entry about it.
You can write about the people you met, the conversations you had, or the tasks you accomplished. Don’t worry about making it perfect or profound—just let your thoughts flow onto the page.
One variation of this idea is to write a journal entry from the perspective of someone else. Imagine what your best friend, your boss, or even a stranger might write about their day.
When writing a journal entry, avoid the temptation to edit or censor yourself. The point is to capture your thoughts and feelings in the moment, not to create a polished piece of writing.
5. A Dialogue Between Two Inanimate Objects
Imagine if the objects around you could talk. What would they say to each other? Choose two inanimate objects and write a dialogue between them.
You can let your imagination run wild with this one. Maybe your coffee mug and your laptop have a friendly rivalry, or maybe your bookshelf and your TV are secretly in love. The possibilities are endless.
One variation of this idea is to write a dialogue between two abstract concepts, like love and hate or happiness and sadness. What would they say to each other?
When writing a dialogue between inanimate objects, avoid making it too silly or nonsensical. While it can be a fun and playful exercise, you still want the dialogue to be engaging and meaningful.
6. A Haiku About the Weather
Haiku is a traditional Japanese form of poetry that consists of three lines with a 5-7-5 syllable pattern. Take a moment to look outside and observe the weather, then write a haiku about it.
You can focus on the sights, sounds, and sensations of the weather, or you can use it as a metaphor for your emotions. Keep it simple and concise, and let the imagery speak for itself.
One variation of this idea is to write a series of haiku that tell a story or capture a moment in time. You can also experiment with different syllable patterns or themes.
When writing a haiku about the weather, avoid using abstract or vague language. Instead, focus on concrete imagery and sensory details.
7. A Character Sketch of a Stranger
People-watching can be a fascinating way to pass the time, and it can also be a great source of inspiration for your writing. Choose a stranger you see on the street or in a cafe and write a character sketch about them.
You can imagine their backstory, their personality, and their hopes and dreams. Use vivid details to bring the character to life on the page.
One variation of this idea is to write a character sketch of a historical figure or a celebrity. Imagine what their inner life might be like and what motivates them.
When writing a character sketch of a stranger, avoid making assumptions or judgments about them. Instead, focus on the details you can observe and let your imagination fill in the rest.
8. A List of Your Favorite Quotes
We all have quotes that inspire us, make us think, or just make us smile. Take some time to write down your favorite quotes and why they resonate with you.
You can choose quotes from books, movies, songs, or even conversations you’ve had with friends and family. Reflect on what each quote means to you and how it has influenced your life.
One variation of this idea is to write your original quotes. What words of wisdom or inspiration do you have to share with the world?
When writing a list of your favorite quotes, avoid simply copying and pasting them from the internet. Instead, take the time to write them out by hand and reflect on their meaning.
9. A Review of the Last Book You Read
Writing a book review can be a great way to practice your critical thinking and analytical skills. Take some time to reflect on the last book you read and write a review of it.
You can discuss the plot, the characters, the writing style, and your overall impression of the book. Be honest and constructive in your feedback, and don’t be afraid to express your opinion.
One variation of this idea is to write a review of a book you haven’t read yet but are excited to read. What are your expectations for the book based on what you know about it?
When writing a book review, avoid simply summarizing the plot. Instead, focus on your analysis and interpretation of the book and what it meant to you.
10. A Letter to Someone You Admire
Is there someone in your life who has had a profound impact on you? Maybe it’s a mentor, a teacher, or a friend who has always been there for you. Take some time to write them a letter expressing your gratitude and admiration.
You can share specific memories or moments that stand out to you, or you can simply express your appreciation for their presence in your life. This is a great opportunity to reflect on the people who have shaped you and to let them know how much they mean to you.
One variation of this idea is to write a letter to someone you’ve never met but admire from afar. It could be a public figure, an artist, or anyone else who has inspired you.
When writing a letter to someone you admire, avoid being too effusive or over-the-top in your praise. Instead, focus on specific examples of how they have impacted your life and what you have learned from them.
11. A Script for a Short Film
Have you ever had an idea for a short film but didn’t know where to start? Take some time to write a script for it.
You can come up with a simple plot, create some characters, and write out the dialogue and action. Don’t worry about making it perfect—just let your creativity flow.
One variation of this idea is to write a script for a commercial or a public service announcement. What message do you want to convey and how can you do it creatively and engagingly?
When writing a script for a short film, avoid getting bogged down in technical details or complicated plot twists. Instead, focus on creating a simple, compelling story with relatable characters.
12. A Bucket List of Things You Want to Do
We all have things we want to do before we die—places we want to visit, experiences we want to have, and goals we want to achieve. Take some time to write out your bucket list.
You can include big, ambitious goals like traveling the world or writing a novel, as well as smaller, more personal goals like learning to play an instrument or volunteering at a local charity. Let your imagination run wild and don’t be afraid to dream big.
One variation on this idea is to write a reverse bucket list—a list of things you’ve already accomplished that you’re proud of.
When writing a bucket list, avoid getting too caught up in the details or logistics of each item. Instead, focus on the essence of what you want to achieve and why it’s important to you.
13. A Fairy Tale with a Modern Twist
Fairy tales are timeless stories that have been passed down for generations. Take a classic fairy tale and give it a modern twist.
You can update the setting, the characters, or the plot to make it more relevant to today’s world. Maybe Cinderella is a tech entrepreneur instead of a scullery maid, or maybe Little Red Riding Hood is a social activist fighting against deforestation.
One variation of this idea is to write a fairy tale from the perspective of the villain. What motivates them and how do they see the world?
When writing a fairy tale with a modern twist, avoid simply rehashing the same old story with superficial changes. Instead, focus on creating a fresh and original take on the classic tale.
14. A Set of Instructions for a Made-Up Game
Have you ever played a game and thought, “I could do this better”? Take some time to write out a set of instructions for your own made-up game.
You can come up with the rules, the objective, and the scoring system. Be creative and let your imagination run wild.
One variation of this idea is to write a set of instructions for a real-life task, like making a sandwich or folding laundry, but with a humorous or absurd twist.
When writing a set of instructions for a made-up game, avoid making the rules too complicated or confusing. Instead, focus on creating a simple, easy-to-understand game that’s fun to play.
15. A Love Letter to Your Favorite Food
We all have that one food that we can’t resist—the one that makes our mouths water and our hearts sing. Take some time to write a love letter to your favorite food.
You can wax poetic about its taste, texture, and aroma, or you can share memories of the first time you tried it or the special occasions when you’ve enjoyed it. Let your passion for the food shine through in your writing.
One variation of this idea is to write a break-up letter to a food you used to love but have since given up, like fast food or sugary snacks.
When writing a love letter to your favorite food, avoid simply listing its qualities or ingredients. Instead, focus on the emotional connection you have with the food and how it makes you feel.
16. A List of Your Favorite Childhood Memories
Childhood is a magical time filled with wonder, adventure, and endless possibilities. Take some time to write down your favorite childhood memories.
You can include big moments like family vacations or holiday celebrations, as well as smaller, more personal moments like playing with your favorite toy or reading your favorite book. Reflect on what made these memories so special and why they’ve stayed with you all these years.
One variation of this idea is to write a list of things you wish you had done as a child but never got the chance to.
When writing a list of your favorite childhood memories, avoid getting too caught up in nostalgia or romanticizing the past. Instead, focus on the specific details and emotions that make each memory unique and meaningful to you.
17. A Poem About Your Favorite Season
Each season has its unique beauty and charm, from the colorful leaves of fall to the blooming flowers of spring. Take some time to write a poem about your favorite season.
You can describe the sights, sounds, and sensations of the season, or you can use it as a metaphor for your emotions and experiences. Let your creativity flow and see where the poem takes you.
One variation of this idea is to write a poem about a season you don’t particularly like and find something positive to say about it.
When writing a poem about your favorite season, avoid using clichéd or overused imagery. Instead, focus on the specific details and sensations that make the season special to you.
18. A Story About a Magical Object
Imagine if the objects around you had magical powers. What would they be able to do? Take some time to write a story about a magical object.
You can choose any object you like, from a simple pencil to a mysterious amulet. Give it a unique power and explore the consequences of that power in your story.
One variation of this idea is to write a story about a cursed object that brings misfortune to anyone who possesses it.
When writing a story about a magical object, avoid making the power too overpowered or unbeatable. Instead, focus on the limitations and consequences of the power and how it affects the characters in your story.
19. A Letter to Your Younger Self
If you could go back in time and give your younger self some advice, what would you say? Take some time to write a letter to your younger self.
You can share the lessons you’ve learned, the mistakes you’ve made, and the wisdom you’ve gained over the years. Be honest, but also be kind and compassionate to your younger self.
One variation of this idea is to write a letter to your older self, imagining what your life might be like in the future and what advice you might need to hear.
When writing a letter to your younger self, avoid being too preachy or judgmental. Instead, focus on the specific experiences and insights that have shaped you and what you wish you had known back then.
20. A Gratitude List
It’s easy to get caught up in the stress and negativity of daily life and forget about all the good things we have to be thankful for. Take some time to write a gratitude list.
You can include big things like your health, your family, and your friends, as well as smaller things like a good cup of coffee or a beautiful sunset. Reflect on what each item means to you and how it enriches your life.
One variation of this idea is to write a gratitude list for someone else, expressing your appreciation for all the ways they’ve impacted your life.
When writing a gratitude list, avoid simply listing things without reflection or context. Instead, focus on the specific ways each item has made a difference in your life and how it makes you feel.
Wrapping Up: Things to Write to Beat Boredom
Writing can be a powerful tool for self-expression, creativity, and personal growth.
When boredom strikes, instead of scrolling through social media or watching TV, try picking up a pen and paper and letting your imagination run wild.
From letters to your future self to poems about your favorite season, there are endless possibilities for things to write when you’re feeling uninspired.
So the next time you find yourself with some free time and nothing to do, grab a notebook and start writing.
You never know where your creativity might take you.