The busy modern world makes it seem like you shouldn’t have a chance to get bored.

However, there’s no shame in allowing yourself some downtime. Letting your mind roam enables more effective problem solving, creative thinking and productivity.

It is imperative to carve out time for personal reflection.

Tips for downtime:

• Take 20 to 30 minutes per day without your cell phone.
• Encourage your child to take some quiet time if it is unavailable at school.
• Turn off devices during mealtime.
• Make sure your quiet time is not goal-oriented.
• Eliminate the guilt you experience when you take quiet time.

Listen as Dr. Alan Lightman joins Melanie Cole, MS, to discuss why we all need to learn to waste time.