Just because you run a business doesn’t mean your whole life should feel like one endless Zoom call, email chain, or pinging calendar reminder.
As a small business owner, it’s so easy to fall into the trap of “every minute must be productive.” But here’s the truth: some of the most valuable minutes are the ones with no agenda, no deadline, and no ROI — just joy.
I recently stumbled across the term “Old Lady Time,” and I instantly fell in love with it. It’s the simple, soul-soothing practice of doing something just because it makes you happy. And while the phrase is new to me, the habit? I’ve actually been practicing it quietly for years.
So, What Is “Old Lady Time”?
For me, “Old Lady Time” looks like:
- Reading a few pages of a book on my Kindle during my lunch break
- Solving the daily Wordle and texting my results (wins and disasters) to my Wordle friend group
- Working on a sewing project after dinner instead of zoning out in front of the TV
“Old Lady Time” is anything that makes you feel like a delightfully carefree old lady with zero emails to answer and not a single care in the world. And believe it or not, that feeling is exactly what your overworked, over-scheduled, always-on-the-go entrepreneurial brain is craving.
Why “Old Lady Time” Matters
1. It resets your brain.
When you step away from work, you give your brain space to process, reflect, and even problem-solve faster. It’s like letting your subconscious untangle the mental knots while your conscious mind focuses on crocheting, baking, or rearranging the bookshelf.
2. It keeps burnout at bay.
Even when you love what you do, your creativity, focus, and energy need refueling from time to time.
3. It reminds you who you are.
You’re more than your business. You’re a whole, vibrant human with hobbies, quirks, and passions that have nothing to do with your income. That matters.
Not Sure Where to Start? Try One of These:
- Reading
- Sewing
- Knitting
- Gardening
- Baking
- Doodling
- Listening to music
- Walking
- Puzzling
- Journaling
So today, I’m giving you full permission — and a gentle nudge — to carve out time for your own version of “Old Lady Time”. Because the minutes you spend doing something “unproductive” might just turn out to be the most productive ones of your week — for your mind, your creativity, and your love for the business you’re building!