Americans have a saying: time is money. But maybe it’s not always that simple. Sometimes, you need time just for yourself. Sometimes, you need time to soak in a warm bath filled with foam and aromatic herbs, to unwind. Other times, you might want to watch a good comedy on Netflix and laugh until you cry. And sometimes, you just need time to rest, to do absolutely nothing — no alarm clocks, no pressure, no rush.
You also need time for your family. Breaks, relaxation, and disconnection are essential — not only for your physical health but especially for your mental well-being.
The constant pressure of daily tasks can easily build up. Be careful — that’s how burnout starts. And burnout can send you straight into recovery mode, sometimes even in a hospital. Wouldn’t it be better to take time for yourself before you’re forced to? Preventing burnout is easier than healing from it.
Let’s assume you already have your balance between work and rest, and your mental health is in good shape. The real question becomes: how can you make your time more valuable?
This shouldn’t be an obligation. If you want to use your free time productively, great. If not, that’s fine — spend it relaxing or with loved ones. But if you do want to turn your time into something meaningful, there are plenty of ways to do it.
1. Learn Something New
Learning is one of the best investments of your free time. I know this from experience. I’ve learned several foreign languages, and those skills helped me attract new clients and earn extra income.
For example, I studied French — and by speaking it, I was able to get clients I would have otherwise lost. But languages aren’t the only skills that can pay off. You can learn programming or how to use a CMS.
Personally, learning WordPress allowed me to take on small freelance projects — another income source. Writing helped too — I’ve written paid articles and earned affiliate income from my blog.
So, start learning. Even 15 minutes a day can make a difference. It’s like taking a short daily walk — small effort, big results over time.
2. Read Regularly
Reading stimulates your brain, builds vocabulary, and enriches your perspective.
Read anything: fiction, self-development, science, finance, news, or blogs. You don’t need to pressure yourself — even three pages a day matter.
Read what attracts you and what can help in your career. The value you add to yourself through reading can eventually translate into real money.
3. Try Small Jobs or Gigs
If you already have a main job but still want to earn extra income, try offering your skills online. Platforms like Upwork allow you to monetize what you know.
I used my WordPress skills, but you might prefer writing, graphic design, or something else. Sometimes you’ll look for clients, other times they’ll find you.
Freelancing — online or offline — can turn your free hours into productive and profitable time.
4. Take Care of Your Health
Go hiking in the mountains for fresh air, or visit the sea to benefit from the salt and sun. Run, walk, or practice any sport that helps you stay fit.
Healthy habits improve both mind and body.
Eat well, take supplements if needed, and keep moving. I used to run even on my darkest days — it helped me overcome challenges and stay mentally strong.
And don’t overthink. Balance is everything. When your mind feels overloaded, take a break.
5. Love and Forgive
The ability to forgive is one of the greatest strengths you can develop.
Holding grudges or resentment only fills your life with negativity and harms your health, both mentally and physically.
Forgive sincerely. Love your friends and family.
And above all — love yourself, because you truly deserve it.
Final Thought
When you learn, grow, take care of yourself, and maintain emotional balance, you’ll find that money naturally follows. Transforming time into money starts with transforming yourself.