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    Now that the weather is getting cooler, we’re all going to be spending more time inside. With that in mind, you may be wondering how to make the most of your time. After all, there is more to life than binge-watching Netflix series. If you are looking for something to do, check out the seven productive ways to spend time inside when the weather gets cooler. Odds are you will find something on this list that appeals to your sensibilities.

    Here are 7 productive ways to spend time inside during cooler weather

    1. Clean out your closets.

    First and foremost, winter is the perfect time to get organized and to tackle those chores that have been sitting on your to-do list for a long time. We’re willing to bet that cleaning out your closet is one of those tasks. With that in mind, take some time to clean out the storage areas in your home, especially your closets.

    If there’s anything that you haven’t used in a while, box it up and donate it to a good cause. Then, finish the project by organizing whatever is left over once you have donated all of your unused items.

    2. Try meal prepping.

    If you’re constantly trying to figure out what to eat and just ending up with whatever is closest at the time, you may want to try meal prepping. At its core, meal prepping involves cooking big batches of food and splitting them up to eat throughout the week. This method of cooking is thought to help you eat healthier and to help you save money by encouraging you to order out less.

    That said, we know that when you’re first getting started, meal prep can feel a little overwhelming. To that end, we’ve brought you some meal prep tips to help you get started.

    3. Catch up on some reading.

    There’s no better way to escape the cold winter weather than by getting lost in a good book. If you’ve had several books on your to-read list for a while, now is the time to get caught up. For those who need more accountability, joining a book club can be a great way to stay social while still getting your reading done. Still, if you just need some inspiration, check out this list of self-development books.

    4. Unleash your creativity.

    Too often, our creativity gets lost in the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life. If you were someone who loved to be creative growing up, we’re willing to bet that you will love it just as much today. In light of that, the next time you’re looking for something to do, you may want to take the time to rediscover your creative hobbies. Whether you’re a writer or a painter, keep in mind that art doesn’t have to be objectively good to be worthwhile.

    5. Virtually volunteer your time — a productive way to spend time inside and give back.

    One positive side effect of the pandemic is that it has made a lot of things easier to do virtually. Volunteerism is one of those activities. These days, countless organizations offer opportunities for you to volunteer your time without leaving the comfort and safety of your own home.

    If you are ready to give back, consider checking out VolunteerMatch. As the name suggests, this nonprofit organization is dedicated to helping match you with the perfect volunteer opportunity based on your interests.

    6. Find your favorite home workout.

    Fortunately, you no longer have to make your way to the gym in order to work out either. Since the pandemic, many fitness organizations have found ways to make working out from home even easier. There are plenty of paid subscription opportunities to choose from. However, if you’re trying to keep things affordable, you can always check out the thousands of free YouTube videos that are available as well.

    7. Discover a new hobby.

    Last, but not least, this winter is the perfect time to discover a new hobby. Whether it’s playing an instrument or learning how to knit, think of something that you have been wanting to try for a long time. Then, invest in that activity. Odds are that you will enjoy it and you will find a new way to spend your time.

    The bottom line on these productive ways to spend time inside

    In truth, there is no shortage of productive ways to spend time inside this winter. If none of the items on this list appeal to you, do the brainstorming of your own. If there’s something that you’ve been wanting to try for a while, now’s the time to do it. Give yourself permission to be open to new activities and experiences. Even if you have to try a few new activities before you find the right one, it will be worth it in the end.

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