Waiting for a table at an overcrowded restaurant doesn’t need to feel like wasted time with a tablet in hand. These moments of idle time can become opportunities for entertainment, productivity or simply relaxing, perfect whether you’re alone or with others. Here’s how you can use your device effectively.
Catch Up on the News or Learn Something New
Stay informed by current events by scrolling through your favorite news apps or websites. Or use this time to expand your knowledge with apps such as TED or Medium which offer articles, videos, and talks on an array of intriguing subjects. Maybe something will inspire a conversation during dinner, or you could even discover something that piques your curiosity enough that could turn into something exciting like an entirely new hobby.
Play a Game (or Challenge a Friend)
Relax by engaging in some quick games of spider solitaire, Sudoku or your favorite mobile game. For added entertainment during dinner dates with companions, pick a multiplayer game to pass the time together. Friendly competition is sure to make the waiting seem like nothing at all.
Plan Your Next Adventure
While waiting for your table is an ideal opportunity to utilize Google Travel or Pinterest or other trip planning apps and start dreaming about your next trip or outing. Research destinations, create itineraries and bookmark special places like this restaurant you are soon about to experience.
Organize Your Digital Life
Your digital life deserves some TLC. Use your tablet to organize your email inbox, calendar and photo gallery. Delete any duplicate photos you’ve been meaning to get rid of or opt out from subscriptions you never open. The future you will thank you for using this waiting period wisely.
Read or Listen to Something Inspiring
Load up an eBook, audiobook, or article you’ve been meaning to dig into for awhile now. Self-help guides, gripping novels or hilarious memoirs all can provide a welcome distraction from noisy restaurant environments, creating the ideal way to escape them while immersing yourself in words.
Explore a Creative Outlet
Your tablet can serve as an engaging creative outlet. Sketch, doodle or create digital art using a stylus. Start writing a journal entry, write lyrics, brainstorm project ideas, just unleash that inner genius.
Update Your Wishlist or Shopping Cart
Treat yourself to some light window shopping by browsing your favorite online stores and adding items to your wishlist or cart. There is no obligation to check out right away. Simply use this opportunity to explore and store ideas for later.
Browse the Menu Like a Pro
Finally, use this time to thoroughly research the restaurant menu and choose your perfect dish with ease when your server arrives. Educate yourself about ingredients, understand cooking techniques or look up pairing suggestions so you’ll impress all at the table with your well-informed decision making when they bring you food.
Conclusion
Waiting for a table doesn’t need to be painful with a tablet at hand. Turn those moments of waiting into productive ones by engaging with something beneficial or entertaining yourself while at it. When next you find yourself glancing down at your tablet in a busy waiting area, instead of just scrolling aimlessly scroll with purpose.