Some of my favorite minimalist influencers use the phrase "5 minutes matter". This is 100% true. Whether you're waiting on the pot of water to boil or chilling during a break at work - 5 minutes really matters. But it's what you choose to do with those 5 minutes that matters most. If you will take just one or two 5 minutes sessions and really apply yourself each day, your life can be much fuller and richer. If you're in search of some great ways to spend your next 5 minutes of solitude, I've got the perfect list!

1) Message a Friend

We are more connected than ever, but also more disconnected than ever. While we have almost non-stop access to texting, calling, social media, etc., how often do we actually take the time to message our friends? I will be the first to admit that I often forget just how great an opportunity I have to connect with friends who live far away. If you've been meaning to catch up with an old friend and can't seem to find the time, take the next 5 minute break and send them a quick message. It doesn't have to be long or perfectly worded. They'll just be happy you thought of them and took time out of your busy day to say hello.

2) Call a Loved One

If you're blessed to have a grandparent, parent, sibling, or other special family member alive, consider when you last gave them a call. If it has been a while (or not), why not give them a call during your next spare moment? They may even be lonely or just enjoy hearing from someone so special to them. There's just something extra special about hearing a voice, rather than texting. Besides, if your grandma was like mine, there's no texting or computers allowed.

3) Do a Brain Dump

If you're feeling overwhelmed or have a lot on your plate, doing a brain dump can really ease your anxiety. A brain dump is when you grab a piece of paper and basically "dump out your thoughts" on it. You write down all of the things you need to do and remember, so you aren't keeping your head full of all this information. Once it's all down on paper, you can breathe a little easier and focus on what needs to be done first. Don't look at it as this overwhelming list full of everything you need to do, but as a holder of information so your brain can work less hard to remember every small detail. You can then refine the brain dump by making smaller lists: shopping list, to do list, calendar reminders, etc.

4) Listen to a Happy Song

The power of music is truly something special. The beat and words of a song can turn your day upside down. If you're feeling down or just need something to do, crank up a happy song. There's the always infamous, "Happy" by Pharrell. There are plenty of others, but that one is definitely "happy". See what I did there? Let me know your favorite "happy song" in the comments!

5) Move Your Body

Moving your body isn't just important for weight loss. There are so many other benefits! Regularly doing brisk activity can lower your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other health conditions. It also improves brain function and sleep. Find an activity you enjoy (or at least don't hate), and you will feel so much better doing it. You don't have to do a 30-minute workout for it to help. Try taking a 5-minute jog or do some stretches the next time you're waiting around. Your body will thank you.

6) Compliment Someone

Have you ever had someone compliment you unexpectedly? Maybe they said they loved your purse, your outfit, your smile, or your eyes. Giving someone a compliment is literally the easiest and quickest thing to do, but it has the power to completely turn their day around - maybe even their life. I encourage you to find someone to compliment each day. You'll make their day and yours too.

7) Make a Bucket List

Bucket lists are very common and can be a lot of fun. Whether you focus on a specific holiday, season, or life in general, it's really cool to think of things you want to do to create a better life for yourself. My free printables page includes multiple FREE bucket lists you can download, or you can create your own using my FREE bucket list template.

8) Read Your Bible

How many bibles are sitting in your home untouched? I often take for granted that I have the inspired word of God at my fingertips 24/7. Yet, the time I spend reading it is far less. Instead of reading it at bedtime when you're half asleep, try reading it the next time you have a few spare minutes. Even if you read just one verse, that's one verse more than you would have read otherwise. Take that verse to heart, and repeat it over and over. Let Christ show you what He has to say through His divine word. Isn't that a good way to spend 5 minutes?

9) Make a Prayer List

How often do you comment "praying" on someone's Facebook status or think of someone who especially needs God's help at this time? I do this a lot, but if I don't write it down, it is so easy to forget some of the many requests there always seems to be. Whether you have a prayer board, prayer journal, or just a scrap of paper, spend a few minutes making a prayer list. I'm willing to bet you'll be surprised just how many of your requests God answers with consistent prayer. Try praying for these requests daily and checking off the ones that are answered. Ask God, and He will answer.

10) Say a Prayer

If you've already made a prayer list, you should have no trouble thinking of something to pray for. Not sure where to start? Check out the link to my FREE mini-series: 31 Days of Powerful Prayer and the 31 Days of Powerful Prayer: Companion Guide. Each day focuses on one specific thing to pray for. That's one month of daily prayer suggestions. The companion guide gives you a space to list your specific prayer requests throughout the series. My prayer is that God would guide you in your prayers and in your life.

Thanks so much for reading! How can you improve your life in just 5 minutes a day? If there's anything I missed, be sure to comment below. Have a wonderful day!!