Audiobooks are a great way to multitask. You can learn new skills, immerse yourself in a different world or relax. But they’re different from listening to music as you need to pay attention or you’ll miss the story.
You can do chores while listening, but there are other things you can do that are just as productive or relaxing. This blog post will discuss 19 things you can do while listening to an audiobook! There is something for everyone, from exercising and stretching to knitting and coloring a book. So put on your glasses and get started!
But first, what is an audiobook?
An audiobook is the spoken word recording of a book. It’s an alternative to reading. You can listen at home, on your commute, or while doing chores around the house.
There are different options for listening, including CD (which I would not recommend), buying and downloading from iTunes, or even Audible (Amazon), which has millions of books to choose from. However, you need a subscription for those services on top of your Amazon Prime account, so it costs more money!
What to do while listening to Audiobooks – 19 creative things
Here are a few things you can do while listening to an audiobook that isn’t house chores (nobody wants that):
1. Go for a walk
This is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air simultaneously! Plus, you can talk about the book on your home walk if you have a dog or a friend.
Walking has many benefits, such as weight loss and better sleep quality, so why not combine it with something enjoyable like listening to an audiobook? The only risk is getting distracted by nature around you, but that’s where your pace comes into play!
2. Do a puzzle
A great way to keep your mind active while listening. Doing a puzzle can help keep you on track if you get bored quickly.
There are many different types of puzzles, such as crosswords, Sudoku, or even jigsaw puzzles! And if you get stuck on one, take a break and return to it later.
3. Exercise or stretch
Working out is a great way to clear your mind and relieve stress. And if you’re listening to an audiobook while doing so, you can learn new information simultaneously!
There are many different types of exercises that you can do, such as running, biking, or even going to the gym. If you’re not into working out, stretching is another great option that requires no equipment.
Just make sure you cool down and stretch properly when you’re done exercising! You don’t want to injure yourself after all.
4. Knit
This is a great way to relax and de-stress. It can also be very calming, especially focusing on one task at a time.
Knitting requires little concentration, so it’s the perfect activity while listening to audiobooks. You can work on a new project or continue with one you’ve worked on for a while.
Just make sure you have enough yarn and needles! I would recommend going to your local craft store for supplies.
5. Color a book
Coloring books are not just for kids! They can be a way to de-stress and relax. And if you’re listening to an audiobook simultaneously, it’s a perfect activity.
Many different coloring books, such as animals, mandalas, or even Harry Potter-themed ones, are available these days! Just make sure to pick one that you won’t get too frustrated with.
You can find coloring books almost anywhere, from your local bookstore to Target or Walmart.
6. Drink coffee or wine
Are you feeling stressed or focused? Take a break and have a cup of coffee or wine. Both of these drinks can help relieve stress. Coffee has caffeine, a stimulant, which can help you stay alert.
And wine has antioxidants that are good for the body. Just make sure you’re drinking in moderation, and don’t overdo it! Too much caffeine or alcohol can have adverse effects on your health.
7. Eat your meal
Eating a meal while listening to an audiobook is a great multitasking method. You can still focus on your food and listen to the book at the same time. Kill two birds with one stone!
Just make sure you’re not eating too quickly so you don’t choke! Mealtimes are also an excellent opportunity for family discussions or even debates about the book!
TIP: If you’re going out to eat, choose a restaurant with quiet surroundings so you can better focus on the audiobook.
8. Cook or bake
If you’re not a fan of going out to eat, cooking or baking is a great alternative. And if you’re listening to an audiobook while doing so, even better!
You can follow a recipe or make something up as you go along. Just make sure you have all the ingredients you need and that it’s not too complicated. I would recommend starting with something simple like cookies or brownies.
Bonus: You can always package them and give them away as gifts!
9. Commute
If you commute to work, school, or anywhere else regularly, this is the perfect time to listen to an audiobook! You can drive and also focus on listening at the same time. Or you can take the bus or train and do other things like reading or listening to audiobooks simultaneously.
This will help make your commute less tedious and more enjoyable. And who knows? Maybe you’ll learn something new along the way too! Just be sure not to get distracted by all that traffic around you.
Did you know people can spend up to two years of their lives commuting? Ugh. Better use that time wisely!
TIP: If your commute route is crowded and noisy, try listening to the audiobook through noise-canceling headphones. This will help block out some noise and make it easier to focus on what you’re listening to.
10. Mow the lawn
Mowing the lawn can be a lot of fun if you’re listening to an audiobook at the same time. While mowing could be considered a house chore, many people look forward to it because it’s a time to be alone and focus on something else.
You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy your yard while learning something new or enjoying entertainment during this task. It can all be done, from mowing to anything garden-related while listening to an audiobook.
11. Take a scenic drive
Taking a scenic drive is one of the best ways to enjoy an audiobook. You can take your mind off the road and focus on listening intently while having fun in your car.
Let’s face it: sometimes, we all have those days when we need a break from work and the busy city. What better way to take a break than a scenic drive? You can go anywhere you want, as long as it’s peaceful and quiet.
Just make sure not to get lost! A GPS or map is always helpful in these cases.
12. Take a bath
Taking a bath is the perfect time to relax and listen to an audiobook. It’s also an excellent opportunity for some “me” time. If you have kids, this might be the only time you’ll get all day to yourself!
You can use your phone or tablet to play the audiobook or have it playing somewhere near you. This is a great way to wind down after a long day or week. A cup of wine, beer, or your favorite coffee in the tub is also a must!
If you’re going to take a shower, try listening to an audiobook with a waterproof Bluetooth speaker. Don’t be one of those people who think they can use the AirPods while in the shower. They’re not waterproof and costly!
13. Paint your nails
Painting your nails might seem like a chore, but it doesn’t have to be! You can enjoy painting them while listening to an audiobook simultaneously. It’s also an excellent opportunity for some “me” time (and I know how much you girls love that!).
This is another one of those tasks where having something else going on will help keep you focused and entertained during this process or task. And if you make a mistake, who cares? It’s just your nails!
14. Run or hike
Running, hiking, and walking are great ways to exercise while listening to an audiobook. You can immerse yourself in a different world or learn something new simultaneously!
This will help keep you motivated during your workout routine, so don’t be afraid of multitasking when exercising! Make sure you have a phone or GPS in case you get lost and need to find your way back.
15. Go to the gym
The gym can be a great place to listen to an audiobook. Grab your favorite pair of headphones and turn on your audiobook. Then, walk around the gym to see what’s happening or start lifting weights while listening intently.
If you need some “me” time, this is also an excellent opportunity! The gym can be intimidating if you don’t know how things work there. But with an audiobook playing in your ears and headphones covering them up, no one will bother asking questions!
16. Walk your dog (or cat)
Walking your dog is a great way to listen to an audiobook. It’s also a chance for much-needed exercise and bonding time with man’s best friend! The dog had to pee anyway, so you might as well make the most of it.
This is a great opportunity to learn something new, relax, and take in your surroundings. You can also talk to your dog about what’s happening in the book while walking them. Who knows, they might even enjoy listening to audiobooks!
17. Organize documents or bookshelves
Organizing stuff at home can feel like a tedious house chore. But it doesn’t have to be! You can listen to an audiobook while you manage your documents and bookshelves. This is a great way to make the most of your time at home or work by multitasking in order not only to get things done but also to learn something new along the way!
Whether it’s digital documents (your email inbox) or physical folders (your bookshelves), this is an excellent opportunity for some “me” time and productivity at the same time!
You could also arrange your clothes or belongings in your room while listening to an audiobook, but that might be too much for some people.
18. Crafting
Crafting is a great way to pass the time and learn new things. You can listen to an audiobook while crafting and make the most of your time!
You can craft anything from quilts and blankets to sweaters and hats! If you’re ambitious, try making something from scratch, like furniture or a dog house! Just ensure you have all the supplies you need before starting.
19. Mindfulness before going to sleep
Mindfulness is a practice where you focus on the present moment. It can be a great way to relax before bed and listen to audiobooks.
You can practice mindfulness by sitting in silence or focusing on your breath. But listening to an audiobook could work, too, if you want to learn something new while relaxing before sleeping.
You might not notice when you fall asleep, but you’ll wake up refreshed and ready to start your day!
The bottom line – What to do while listening to audiobooks
There you have it. Nineteen things you can do while listening to audiobooks.
You might be surprised by how many different activities are on this list, but it is possible to multitask with an audiobook! So if you’re looking for something new, try one of these suggestions today! And don’t forget to leave a comment below if you have any other ideas!