The idea for this post came to me while I was sitting in the orthodontist’s waiting room—my oldest was getting her braces checked, and I had about 40 minutes to myself. I should have been thrilled to get some time to catch up or breathe. But instead? I stared into space, overwhelmed by everything I had to do that day. I didn’t answer emails, didn’t relax, didn’t even scroll in a satisfying way. I just sat, frozen, and left feeling more frazzled than when I walked in. Instead, doing things moms shouldn’t do while waiting…
That moment made me realize: just having “waiting time” doesn’t mean we automatically use it well. In fact, sometimes we unknowingly do things during those small pockets of time that leave us feeling worse—more drained, less productive, or just more behind than before.
So if you’re a busy mom sitting in your car during sports practice, in the school pickup line, or in a doctor’s office with a child being seen—here are 10 things you probably shouldn’t do during that precious time.
1. Mindlessly Scroll Social Media
A quick check-in is fine, but if you’ve ever come out of a 25-minute scroll session feeling more irritated or drained than inspired, you know what I mean. I’m Social media can be fun—but when it’s unfocused, it tends to rob your mental energy instead of recharge it.
2. Start a Giant Project You Can’t Finish
You may be tempted to “finally” clean up your inbox or start planning your summer vacation. But starting something big in a short window usually means stopping in the middle—and that unfinished feeling adds stress, not satisfaction. Save the big stuff for bigger blocks of time.
3. Doomscroll the News
Trying to stay informed is one thing. Consuming a steady stream of heavy headlines while you’re already juggling mental overload? Not helpful. It zaps your energy, triggers anxiety, and rarely leaves you in a better headspace.
4. Overthink Your Parenting Choices
You’re sitting in the car, thinking about how you snapped that morning, wondering if you should have packed a better lunch or if your screen time rules are too loose. We all do it. But waiting time isn’t the moment to spiral into self-judgment. Give yourself grace and save the reflection for a calmer space.
5. Feel Obligated to Respond to Every Text or Message
You don’t need to respond to the group chat about birthday cupcakes or that random PTA question right now. Not everything is urgent. Set a boundary that waiting time is your time, not a reply-all hour.
6. Browse Amazon or Target “Just to Look”
What starts as innocent browsing often turns into impulse buying—and a box arriving at your door three days later that makes you think, “Wait, why did I buy this?” Shopping without a purpose usually leads to regret or clutter. (And moms don’t need more of either.)
7. Consume Drama That Drains You
Whether it’s TV shows, Reddit threads, or parenting forum debates, drama can be oddly addictive—but it’s rarely uplifting. Stick with content that makes you feel better, not heavier. Although I do have a friend who LOVES murder podcasts. Thrives on it. So if it is your thing, then…..
8. Snack or Caffeinate Out of Boredom
If you’re truly hungry or tired, go for it. But reaching for snacks or a third coffee just because you’re bored or overwhelmed? That habit doesn’t actually energize you—it often leaves you feeling sluggish or jittery instead.
Instead, consider snacks that will fuel your body and your day with these 20+ Best Car Snacks for Busy Moms.
9. Scroll Real Estate or Job Listings You’re Not Serious About
We’ve all done it. Zillow daydreams, fantasy job searches… but unless you’re actively looking, this kind of window shopping tends to stir up feelings of discontent instead of motivation.
Be serious. If you are thinking a house reno, get on Pinterest and start saving inspirational photos.
10. Make a Massive To-Do List Without Prioritizing
Making lists can be helpful, but listing 28 things to do when you only have time for one just ramps up the pressure. Instead, pick one thing that matters. Do it. Feel accomplished. That’s a better win than a mile-long list of guilt.
If you’re a While Mom Waits fan, then you should be sticking to the one page Waiting Time Productivity Planner to help Maximize Your Day!.
What Moms Shouldn’t Do While Waiting…. Final Thoughts…
Waiting time can be a gift—or a drain—depending on how we use it. And trust me, I’m not perfect at this either. Some days my Facebook scrolling gets out of hand! But recognizing the habits that leave us feeling worse, not better, is a good step toward reclaiming those little moments for what they’re meant to be: tiny pockets of time for you.
Whether that means reading a few pages of a good book, journaling, listening to a podcast, or just breathing without your phone in your hand—there are better ways to spend this time.
So next time you’re in the car or sitting in a waiting room, ask yourself:
Is this actually helping me feel better or move forward?
If not, you’ve got permission to stop—and choose something that does.
Want some quick wins for what to do during waiting time instead? Check out my post:
👉 25 Things Busy Moms Can Actually Do While Waiting in the Car
