In a world obsessed with hustle culture, a new trend is emerging—dilly-dallying. Yes, really! The art of slowing down, embracing unstructured time, and allowing yourself to just be is gaining momentum in 2025, and for good reason.
With burnout rates skyrocketing and people craving a break from the relentless pressure to be productive, more individuals are rediscovering the joy of doing things slowly and intentionally. But is dilly-dallying really laziness, or is it the key to a healthier, more fulfilling life? Let’s dive in.
Why Is Dilly-Dallying the Trend of 2025?
Over the past few years, we’ve seen a cultural shift toward slow living. From the rise of digital detoxes to the popularity of mindfulness apps, people are pushing back against the idea that busyness equals success.
Now, in 2025, the trend has evolved further. Dilly-dallying is no longer a bad habit to break—it’s becoming a form of self-care.
The Science Behind Slowing Down
Studies show that unstructured time improves mental health, boosts creativity, and even enhances productivity in the long run. Neuroscientists have found that when we allow our minds to wander, we enter the default mode network—a brain state linked to problem-solving, deep thinking, and emotional processing.
In other words, that moment when you’re daydreaming over your coffee? Your brain is still working.
How to Embrace the Dilly-Dallying Trend
1. Let Go of Productivity Guilt
We’ve been conditioned to believe that every minute needs to be optimized. But here’s the truth: taking time to wander, relax, or simply exist isn’t wasted time—it’s time well spent.
2. Schedule Unstructured Time
It might sound ironic, but planning time for spontaneity can help you embrace a slower pace. Use a digital planner to set aside daily moments where nothing is scheduled—just space to breathe and enjoy the moment.
(If you’re looking for a flexible, ADHD-friendly planner to help you create a more balanced routine, check out my Simply Simple digital planners.)
3. Find Joy in the Little Things
Ever notice how a slow morning with your favorite coffee or a walk with no destination feels like a luxury? That’s because mindful leisure helps reset your nervous system, making life feel richer and more meaningful.
4. Swap Doomscrolling for Digital Mindfulness
Spending an hour on social media can leave you feeling drained, but an hour of slow journaling, digital planning, or reading? That’s nourishing. If you love tech, try using aesthetic iPad accessories to make your digital downtime more enjoyable.
5. Redefine Success
In 2025, success isn’t just about how much you do—it’s about how much you enjoy what you’re doing. Slowing down doesn’t mean you’re falling behind; it means you’re actually living your life.
Ready to Dilly-Dally Your Way to a Better Life?
If this trend speaks to you, check out The Art of Slow Productivity: Getting Things Done Without Burnout or How to Use Your Planner to Cultivate a More Intentional Life for more insights on embracing balance.
And if you’re looking for a planning system that supports mindful leisure instead of rigid schedules, my digital planners can help.
So go ahead—dilly-dally a little. Your best ideas (and happiest moments) are waiting for you in the unstructured spaces. 😉
I loved this post—so relatable! I find myself staring at my to-do list all day but not actually getting anything done. Do you have any tips on how to start when everything feels overwhelming?
Sophie, you’re not alone! One thing I’ve found helpful is breaking my tasks into super small steps—like “send one email” or “write one sentence.” It’s amazing how that little action can build momentum. And remember, starting is the hardest part—once you get going, it’s easier to keep moving! 💛
Oh my gosh, I always dillydally before I start anything. Especially on days when I’m not feeling motivated. How do you deal with the guilt that comes after procrastinating?
Amy, that guilt can be tough! I’ve learned that being kind to myself is key. Instead of focusing on the delay, I try to shift to what I can control in the moment. Even taking a small break or doing one tiny task feels like a victory, and that helps shift my mindset. You got this! 🌿
Nadine and Amy, this whole conversation resonates so much! The guilt after procrastinating can be a real downer. Nadine, your point about focusing on what you can control is brilliant. Amy, I’m curious, is there a particular type of task you find yourself putting off the most? Maybe we can brainstorm some specific strategies together!
Thanks for chiming in! It’s comforting to know we’re all in the same boat sometimes. For me, it’s usually the really big, complex projects. What about you? Let’s definitely share some strategies!
It’s just good to know I’m not the only one whose brain seems to have a “procrastinate now, panic later” setting! 😉
Well, it seems like we’ve all been there with the procrastination monster! Thanks for making me feel less alone. Let’s all try to be a little kinder to ourselves this week. Onwards (eventually! 😉)!
This post couldn’t have come at a better time! I’m always putting things off because I feel like they need to be perfect before I start. How do you handle perfectionism when it comes to tasks?
Hi Jenna, I totally get the perfectionism struggle. For me, it’s about focusing on progress rather than perfection. I remind myself that getting something done—even if it’s not perfect—is better than waiting for the “perfect” moment. And sometimes, just starting is the best way to break free from that cycle! 💛
Honestly, I think I dillydally because I don’t know where to start! There are so many things to do, and I just freeze. Any advice on how to pick that first task?
Oh Bobby, I hear you! One thing that works for me is starting with something small that has a quick win. I’ll pick something that will take only 5 minutes to do. That little victory gives me the momentum to tackle bigger tasks. Also, sometimes just picking one thing to focus on helps cut through the overwhelm. 🌟