How to use downtime effectively?

Of course this is no time to think about how to use downtime. Where is the downtime in this time of crisis and survival? This is time to work extra hard/smart to prove one's employmentability.

Actually I was pondering upon this question that came up in one of the monthly leadership meetings of our vice president. Here are my thoughts on some steps one can take during a downtime:

1. Step back and review your work processes
Ask, "How can I do it better, differently?" Then try to improve your work methods.
2. Finish unfinished documentation
This is time to finish all those documentation that you intended to do but never got done.
3. Re-energize
Learn something new. Pick up a new hobby. This is the perfect time to do what Stephen Covey calls "Sharpen the Saw." Prepare yourself for the peak.
4. Evangelize your work, your team
This may not be a bad time to do the networking, make those phone calls. Connect with that associate, reach out tohat colleague that you have been intending. Proactively go out and publicize your team accomplishment.
5. Take that vacation
Plan your vacation during the low time. So, when you come back you are not only energized, if you take time off during a low period, chances are you don't have to catch up with a lot of pending work upon return from break.