Tidsspilder

Tidsspilder is a term used in Swedish to describe activities or behaviours that consume time without delivering corresponding value. The concept can refer to both individuals and processes that inefficiently use time, resulting in reduced productivity or delayed goals. The word is formed from tid (time) and spilder (waster).

Tidsspilder can be intentional, such as procrastination or aimless browsing, or unintentional, resulting from poor planning, constant interruptions, or poorly designed work processes. Common examples include excessive social media or news consumption, unproductive meetings, repetitive administrative tasks, unchecked email or chat notifications, and frequent context switching. In digital environments, distractions and addictive design often amplify tidsspilder.

The impact of tidsspilder includes lower output, increased cognitive load, higher stress, and opportunity costs, particularly when time is scarce or deadlines are tight. It can be measured with time-tracking, task audits, or productivity metrics, although some researchers note that not all downtime is wasteful, as rest and reflection can support long-term performance.

Strategies to reduce tidsspilder focus on prioritization, planning, and environment design. Approaches include time blocking and prioritization frameworks (for example, focusing on important tasks first), limiting or structuring meetings with clear agendas and durations, batching unrelated tasks to reduce context switching, turning off nonessential notifications, using templates and automation for repetitive work, and cultivating awareness of personal work habits. In some contexts, organizational culture and leadership play a role by modeling efficient practices and clarifying expectations about availability and deadlines.