"الوقت الذي تستمتع بإضاعته، لم يضع هباءً."

The essence of this quote is pretty straightforward: if you truly enjoy something, no matter how unproductive it may seem to others, then it’s not a waste of your time. It’s about finding value in what brings you happiness, regardless of societal expectations or norms.

Historically, this idea can be traced back to the rise of individualism, where personal satisfaction began to be seen as more important than conforming to collective standards. It challenges the conventional notion of productivity and encourages a more personal approach to valuing time.

Imagine you’re a passionate gamer. You can spend hours lost in virtual worlds, battling monsters or solving puzzles, and to an outsider, it might seem like you’re just wasting your time. But if those hours make you happy, if they give you a break from the stresses of daily life and let you connect with friends online, then they’re not wasted at all. You’re recharging your mental batteries, enjoying the narrative and strategy, and simply having fun.

Applying this wisdom in your life means letting go of guilt when you indulge in activities that others might not understand or value. If you love painting, reading comic books, or even just daydreaming, embrace it. Recognize the joy and relaxation it brings you, and don’t feel pressured to justify it to anyone.

Picture this: Emily is a high-powered attorney. Her job is demanding and stressful. But every Saturday, she spends hours in her garden, tending to her plants. To her colleagues, this might seem like a waste of time—she could be prepping for her next case or networking at a brunch. But for Emily, gardening is a meditative escape. The tactile pleasure of working with soil, the beauty of seeing her plants grow, it all brings her a sense of peace and fulfillment that no amount of billable hours can match.

By allowing herself this time, Emily finds balance. Her garden becomes her sanctuary, a personal retreat where she can reset and find clarity. She returns to work on Monday more focused and less stressed because she allowed herself that “wasted” time.

So, next time you’re indulging in something you love, but feel guilty about its productivity quotient, remember this: enjoyment has its own intrinsic value. If it brings you happiness or peace, it’s time well spent. Don’t let societal pressure dictate how you value your time. Your personal fulfillment is what matters most.