How Ancient Greece Shows Us the Power of Free Time

Scott Hansen
Atlantis
Published in
2 min readJul 20, 2024
Reflecting on how Ancient Greece taught us the true value of ‘schole’ — the power and importance of free time. Image Source.

Hey there everyone, the Atlantis team here! We’re passionate about sharing knowledge and empowering people to think for themselves.

Today, let’s take a trip back in time to Ancient Greece and explore a fascinating concept: scholē (pronounced skoh-LAY).

More Than Just School

Forget everything you think you know about “school.” In Ancient Greece, scholē wasn’t just about sitting in a classroom. It was a whole way of life, a dedicated space for leisure, learning, and personal growth.

Imagine having free time that wasn’t seen as wasted downtime, but as a chance to explore your interests, have stimulating conversations with friends, or simply ponder the mysteries of the universe!

The Power of Free Time

Have you ever felt like there just aren’t enough hours in the day?

Many of us juggle busy schedules and constant demands. But what if the key to unlocking our full potential wasn’t cramming more in, but actually slowing down?

The ancient Greeks, particularly those in the wealthy class, had the privilege of leisure time. They used this time for philosophical discussions, athletic pursuits, and attending cultural events.

Imagine the incredible ideas that could spark from these free-flowing conversations and unhurried exploration!

Learning Beyond the Classroom

The ancient Greeks understood that true learning goes beyond textbooks and tests. By dedicating time to scholē, they cultivated well-rounded individuals with the ability to think critically, express themselves creatively, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

So, what can we learn from this?

  • Schedule some “scholē” time: Even if it’s just 20 minutes a day, carve out some free time in your schedule. Use it to read a book on a topic you’re curious about, have a deep conversation with a friend, or simply sit outside and observe the world.
  • Embrace the power of curiosity: Don’t be afraid to ask questions and explore new ideas. The key to unlocking creativity and innovation is often found in those moments of pure curiosity.
  • Share your knowledge: Just like the ancient Greeks who gathered to discuss their ideas, share your own thoughts and experiences with others. You might be surprised at what you learn from each other!

What are your thoughts?

Do you ever feel like you need more time to think freely?

How do you currently use your free time?

Share your ideas and experiences in the comments below!

Feeling inspired? Atlantis is always looking for passionate writers to share their knowledge. Check out our website to learn more about how you can contribute your unique voice!

--

--

Scott Hansen
Atlantis

Ignite your inner author! I help aspiring writers like YOU to share stories with the world through the Atlantis Project. Write, connect, & be heard.