For some of us, boredom at work does not exist. It may even sound far-fetched. But for others, there are times when the work is completed and the phone isn’t ringing. And it is times like these that make the day seem like an eternity. For times like that, here are some ways you can pass the time and get to 5 o’clock quicker.
Follow Brent “Never Bored” McAllister on Twitter @brentonmutually
Koosh Ball
The Koosh Ball is a standby favorite that is quiet and easy to use without causing a distraction. The bristles stimulate the hands and fingers as you squeeze it and pass it from hand to hand.
Playable Art Balls
Imagine the multitude of designs you can create at your desk with these wooden art balls. The balls turn and twist and have a natural wood feel.
Plasma Ball
The Plasma Ball is now powered by a USB port. While the phone is ringing off the hook, it sits as a decoration on your desk. But when it gets quiet, you can get mesmerized by the different patterns and colors your hands attract.
Missile Launcher
If your boss is uptight, this next suggestion may find you in the unemployment line. But if you work in a relaxed environment, the USB Missile Launcher may be the best way to fight boredom, and your neighbor in the next cubicle.
Desktop Aquarium
The desktop aquarium is a multi-functional aquarium. While it will hold your scissors, pens and highlighters, it also has a clock and calendar. And it is a perfect home for your fish Nemo. Bored at work? Watch Nemo swim around in his home.
Glitter Lamp
Years ago, it was the Lava Lamp. But today, it is the USB powered Glitter Lamp. Plug it in and watch the different colors and shapes it makes until the phone rings again.
Basketball
The USB Dunk Basketball game could provide the relief you need from being bored at work. Keep track of how many shots you make and watch as your aim improves. And once you have mastered the game, challenge your co-worker. You could win a free lunch.
Desktop Hoverboard
While the film “Back to the Future” gave us the idea of the hoverboard, and kids are being transported by them today, the desktop version uses magnets to hold the board up. Tip it side to side and watch as the board hovers and moves.
Nano Dots
Nano Dots are magnetic spheres that allow you to create any design imaginable. This is an inexpensive way to pass the time.
Fidget Spinner
The odds are high that you have a headache from your kids asking for a fidget spinner. But have you tried to spin it? As it spins, the motion puts off a vibration in your hands that becomes addicting. And here is a hint. Don’t pay $10 for one. Visit wish.com and pick one up for a buck. Shipping may take a little longer, but the price is right.
Fidget Cube
If the Fidget Spinner had a cousin, it would be the Fidget Cube. The cube has buttons that push, spin, click and rotate. It keeps the hands busy while you are waiting for the day to end.
12. Wobble Active Foot Rest
While you won’t become the next skate boarding champion, the Wobble Active Footrest will keep your feet and legs busy as you count down the minutes. It is designed like a skateboard and has four wheels that allows you to move it back and forth. Just don’t launch it across the office.
Desktop Bowling
Become the star bowler for the office bowling team as you practice on this desktop bowling game. The only drawback is you have to set your own pins after bowling a strike.
Desktop Golf
While you are stuck in the office bored out of your mind, you know the executives are on the golf course chumming it up. Become a mini executive with this mini desktop golfing game. Try to keep it under wraps when you get your first hole in one.
Newton’s Cradle
Maybe the most recognized item found on a desk to prevent boredom, Newton’s Cradle will give you something to do when boredom has set in at work. Pull back on one or two balls, let them go and watch as continues on without stopping.
Desktop Punching Bag
The desktop punching bag mounts to your desk using a suction cup and can serve as two purposes. First, when you are busy and doing the work of your co-worker, it serves as as stress reliever. And when you are bored, it helps give you something to do.
Finger Drums
Lunch is over and you have visited the restroom. There is no other excuse to get up from your desk. Now what? You grab your finger drum set and rock out!
Air Strike Catapult
It is all out war with the Air Strike Catapult. You know you really don’t like your neighbor in the next cubicle, but you get along because you have to. And what better way to release some aggression while you are bored than to “pretend” to attack them. Game on!
Kinetic Surfer
If you are bored at work but the beach is calling your name, surf’s up with this kinetic driven surfer. Spin it and see how many times he can catch a wave without stopping.
Cubebot
He’s a friend, a Ninja and a way to escape the boredom on a Wednesday afternoon at work. The Cubebot can be moved into several different positions. An excellent escape to help you forget you are sitting in a cubicle.
Follow Brent “Never Bored” McAllister on Twitter @brentonmutually