Why Excessive Free Time Can Be Just as Detrimental as Having Too Little

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Lately, I’ve found myself daydreaming about something simple yet elusive: free time. The kind that stretches endlessly before me—no meetings, no shuttling kids around, no deadlines looming, and absolutely no Zoom calls. Just pure, unadulterated free time.

However, a recent study suggests that this dream may not be the paradise I imagine. According to findings published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, while our wellbeing does improve with free time, there’s a limit. It turns out that, like Goldilocks, we need just the right amount of free time; too little is unhealthy, but too much can be equally harmful.

Moderation is essential. “Our research indicates that a balanced amount of free time is where people report the highest levels of happiness,” remarked study author Sarah Thompson, an assistant professor at the University of Michigan.

The study examined over 13,000 working Americans about their free time and overall wellbeing. Additionally, around 6,000 participants were asked to envision various amounts of free time and how they would feel in each scenario. They considered both “productive” activities, like exercising or pursuing a hobby, and “unproductive” ones, such as binge-watching TV or scrolling through social media.

The researchers found that excessive free time can negatively impact wellbeing, just like having too little. However, engaging in productive activities led participants to feel better about having extra time on their hands. While the study didn’t define a specific ideal amount of free time, it generally ranged from 2 to 5 hours a day. Interestingly, if individuals spent their surplus time with others or engaged in meaningful activities, they didn’t experience a decline in their wellbeing.

This suggests that the issue isn’t the free time itself, but rather how we choose to spend it. Endless hours of TV can be enjoyable for a while, but eventually, we crave more fulfilling experiences. Downtime that feels too “lazy” often leaves us unsatisfied compared to time spent connecting with others or contributing positively to our environment.

It’s worth noting that this study focused solely on Americans, a culture known for its workaholic tendencies and long hours. Study author Emily Rhodes, a professor at Stanford, acknowledged that while the psychological effects may be similar globally, cultural context could shape perceptions of what constitutes too much or too little free time.

I’ll admit, I often fantasize about abandoning my responsibilities for a quiet cabin in the woods, far removed from obligations. But deep down, I realize that I would likely feel bored and lonely in such isolation.

So what do I truly desire when I think about that extra time? I think what I really crave is a bit of breathing space. More than that, I want to feel at ease while taking that breath. Whenever I do find myself with a chunk of free time, I often feel anxious about how I should utilize it. I should declutter the basement, write in my journal, or take a leisurely walk. The pressure to be productive can turn my free time into a source of stress.

As the research suggests, moderation is crucial. Perhaps the adage “quality over quantity” applies to our free time as well.

For more insights on managing your time and well-being, check out this other blog post. If you’re seeking further guidance on family planning, consider resources like Make a Mom, which specializes in home insemination kits, or Johns Hopkins Fertility Center for comprehensive infertility services.

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In summary, while free time is essential for our well-being, there is a delicate balance to maintain. Too little can lead to stress, but too much can result in feelings of guilt or boredom. Engaging in meaningful activities can transform our free time into a more enriching experience.

Keyphrase: Excessive Free Time Effects

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