The Productivity Trap: Why Your Hobbies Deserve a Place on Your To-Do List

Have you ever gotten to the end of a long day, checked off a million tasks, and still felt like you weren’t doing enough? Like no matter how much you accomplish, there’s always more laundry, more emails, more “productive” things you should be doing?

Yeah. Same.

For a long time, I was stuck in that loop—believing my worth was measured by how much I got done. Growing up, I watched my mom put off her hobbies for the same reason. There was always something “more important” to do, so the things that brought her joy got pushed to the side. And as I built my own business, I saw myself starting to do the same thing.

But here’s the thing: I refuse to give up the things that bring me joy in the pursuit of productivity or money. Even if it’s just for a few minutes a day, my creative time is mine.

And if you’re caught in the same trap, I want to help you break out of it, too.

Redefining Productivity

Somewhere along the way, we’re taught that being busy is the same as being successful. That if we aren’t working, cleaning, or crossing things off a to-do list, we’re wasting time.

But let me ask you this—when’s the last time you let yourself do something just because it made you happy?

Not because it’s useful. Not because you could turn it into a side hustle. But because it feels good to create, play, or explore something new?

The truth is, your hobbies aren’t a distraction from a productive life—they’re part of a full, meaningful one.

When we redefine what “productive” means, we stop seeing creative time as extra and start seeing it as essential. Because the point of life isn’t just to get things done—it’s to live.

Hobbies as Self-Care: Why This Matters More Than You Think

You know how you feel after taking a break—how your brain just works better when you step away for a bit? That’s no coincidence.

Hobbies give your brain the reset it needs. They help you decompress, lower stress, turn down the volume on racing thoughts, and even spark new ideas (yes, even for work).

If that sounds far-fetched because you’re so deep in the productivity trap that you can’t imagine ever getting out—I get it. I’ve been there. I raced myself straight into burnout and, in desperation, turned to my hobbies hoping they’d help me find a way out. And they did.

The best part? You don’t need hours of free time to see the benefits.

A few minutes of creative time—doodling, knitting, writing, whatever brings you joy—can:
✅ Reduce stress and anxiety
✅ Improve focus and patience
✅ Help you feel more like you

Imagine going into your week feeling less overwhelmed, calmer, and clearer—all because you took a little time for something you love.

Sounds pretty freaking productive to me.

Making It Happen: How to Actually Fit Creativity Into Your Day

I know what you’re thinking: This sounds great, but where the hell do I find the time?

The good news? You don’t need to overhaul your schedule. You just need to make small, intentional space for creativity—even if it’s just 10 minutes.

Here’s how to start:
🕒 Pick a time – Morning coffee? Right before bed? A lunch break? Find a pocket of time that works for you.
🎨 Choose a low-pressure creative activity – Doodle, color, crochet, write. Anything that feels fun (not forced).
📅 Make it part of your routine – Treat it like an appointment with yourself. (Because it is.)

And if you’re not sure where to start, I’ve got something to help.

If this post has you nodding along, thinking, I need this—but I don’t know where to start—I’ve got you.

I created The Creative Time Finder to help you uncover hidden moments in your day to fit creativity into your life—without guilt or stress.

✨ Inside, you’ll find:
✔️ A simple method to pinpoint your best time for creativity
✔️ Easy ways to make it a habit (even if life feels busy)
✔️ A quick plan so you can actually start

🎉 Ready to reclaim your creative time?

Drop your email below, and I’ll send you The Creative Time Finder—a simple, no-BS guide to making space for creativity (even on your busiest days).

Your Hobbies Deserve a Spot on Your To-Do List

You are more than your productivity. Your hobbies aren’t a waste of time. They aren’t selfish. They aren’t something you have to earn.

They’re a reminder that you’re a whole person—not just a worker, a parent, or someone checking things off a list.

So, here’s your permission: Make time for the things that light you up. Even if it’s just for a few minutes. You deserve that.