Free time at work - how would YOU spend it?

[Kylark]

I'm looking for fresh ideas. I work at a computer help desk, and while we are sometimes very busy, we often have downtime between calls which we can spend in any way we choose as long as it is not too disruptive. The majority of people here (me included!) tend to spend their free time surfing the internet between calls.

I want to use my time at work in a productive way that will let me grow as a person or develop a valuable skill that I can use to move into a better position or even self-employment.

On an average day I probably have 30 to 65 percent downtime.

From a personal development standpoint, what would you do?

[mochamajesty]

I found this site surfing the internet at work.

Steve's Early Riser articles in his blog have changed my life for the better.

[Ree]

Since your supervisor is aware that you have periods of free time, perhaps you can ask your supervisor what career paths are available to you from your present position; and how you could make use of the free time you have available to acquire new skills or knowledge that could help you move yourself along your chosen career path.

Taking the initiative to better yourself at work makes an EXCELLENT impression on the powers that be

Are you taking any classes? Having free time at work is an excellent situation for people who work full-time but are also furthering their education.

Good luck to you!!

[MSC2471]

I second Ree's thoughts on seeing what you could do to better your career aspirations. Sometimes the companies you work for will be willing to pay for this extra education and training, especially if it benefits their business in the long haul.

I work overnights at a hospital, and in addition to internet surfing, I also bring a book or two on personal development, writing, language skill acquisition, etc. so that I can feed my mind in that manner.

Good luck in your personal development pursuits and keep us informed of your progress.

Matt

[Rose of Cairo]

reading PD books?

edit: or meditating, or doing some breathe exercises...

[Lauxa]

FreeRice.com is fun for learning vocabulary (they donate rice to the UN for every word you define correctly).

I think you need to define your goals a little more clearly before you can figure out how to best serve them. Right now you are looking for "a better position or self-employment". Okay, so do some research on all the possible positions you could have and list out all your ideas for self-employment. Once you pick something, you will know how to focus your free time at work.