In February, pop star Sabrina Carpenter released Short n’ Sweet Deluxe, an extended version of the Best Pop Vocal Album at the 2025 Grammys. One of the featured songs on the album is entitled “15 Minutes.” Although Sabrina’s interpretation is raunchier, the theme of this song is that, in just 15 minutes, a lot can be accomplished. A bad habit of mine is looking at the clock, seeing I only have 15 minutes before I have to do something, telling myself that’s not enough time, then proceeding to do nothing until I have to leave the house. I then asked myself, how much time would I gain if I actively utilized the spare 15 minutes in my day? Probably a lot. If Sabrina can be so effective with her use of 15 minutes, I should figure out ways to better utilize those spare 15 minutes in the day.

Not Enough Time for the Gym

I often fall into the trap of thinking that if I don’t have several hours free, it’s not worth it to work out. I promise, a 15-minute walk, stretch or workout is absolutely worth it. Even on days without enough time for a full workout, at least something that keeps the body moving is a great way to spend time.

Hobbies

I love to read, but I sometimes find myself going months without picking up a book because I feel like I don’t have time. There’s no shame in reading a chapter or two for 15 minutes. So, pick up that guitar, that sketchbook or your book because those 15 minutes are better than nothing at all!

I Need More Time to Clean This Up

Whether it be a good or a bad trait of mine, I tend to be a task finisher. I don’t like to start something unless I can finish it in its entirety. With this spare 15-minute dilemma, I’ve found that I have to break out of that mindset. For example, in 15 minutes, I might not have time to wash, dry, fold and put away my laundry, but at least folding is better than no progress at all. Just unloading the dishwasher, watering the plants or wiping the counters down is something. I’ve even started chopping vegetables for something I plan on cooking later. I don’t love leaving tasks half finished, but leaving something halfway done later feels like a little gift to future me.

Much Deserved Rest

I could write a whole article on the benefits of napping (as a matter of fact, I think I will sometime soon), but lying down for 15 minutes in between tasks is an effective use of time, too. I know it can be hard to convince yourself that time lying down and taking a nap isn’t wasteful, but I’ve found that I am more productive after I rest my eyes for a bit. To me, that’s a win – being able to complete tasks faster and better after I take time to myself is worth it in the end. I’m not saying that I’m going to stop with the slow pack-up with 15 minutes left in the work day (don’t lie – we all do it), but time used effectively is never wasted. Whether it’s cleaning, exercising, napping or prepping, taking 15 minutes to complete tasks has changed my outlook on what I can accomplish. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not perfect, but listening to Sabrina and realizing you can do more with your spare 15 minutes can give you more time in your day.