"The time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time."

It's funny how we often get wrapped up in the idea that every moment of our lives has to be productive, purposeful, or moving us toward some grand goal. But what if sometimes the best use of our time is to just... well, enjoy it? That's the heart of what this quote is getting at. It's saying that spending time on things you love—even if they seem unimportant or unproductive to others—is valuable. If you're happy and at peace while you're doing it, then it’s not a waste of time at all.

This quote often gets attributed to John Lennon, though there's some debate about its origins. Regardless of who said it, the idea resonates because it pushes back against the hustle culture that's so pervasive today. We live in a world where we're constantly told to be doing more, achieving more, and that every second should be maximized for productivity. But this quote reminds us that life isn't just about being productive—it's also about finding joy and meaning in the little things.

Take for example, your friend who loves playing video games. To some people, it might seem like he’s wasting hours that could be spent doing something "more meaningful." But for him, those gaming sessions are a form of relaxation, a way to connect with friends, and a momentary escape from the stresses of daily life. If he finds happiness there, who’s to say it’s wasted?

Now, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start by giving yourself permission to do things purely for the joy of it. Maybe you love painting, even though you're not the next Van Gogh. Or perhaps you enjoy binge-watching a guilty pleasure TV series. Don't let the pressure to always be "on" take that away from you. Schedule time for these activities, just as you would for work or other responsibilities. Make it a priority to enjoy yourself—because, in the end, those moments of joy are what you’ll remember.

Imagine this scenario: You've had a long week at work. Deadlines, meetings, the whole nine yards. Finally, it's Saturday. You could spend the day tackling that ever-growing list of chores, but instead, you decide to take your dog out for a long walk in the park. You breathe in the fresh air, laugh at your dog's antics, and maybe stop for a coffee at your favorite café. Sure, you didn’t cross anything off your to-do list, but you return home feeling refreshed and happy. Was that time wasted? Of course not. It was a mental reset, a bit of joy in a busy life.

So next time you find yourself feeling guilty for "wasting" time, remember this quote. Think of your enjoyment as an essential part of your well-being. The chores and tasks will always be there, but the joy you find in small moments—those are fleeting and invaluable. Make time for them. Make time for you.