Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned:
It is extremely unfortunate for a person’s time to be wasted in idleness, without him gaining anything. If one does not have any work to attend to, then he should at least engage himself in the chores of the home. In carrying out the chores of the home, not only will his heart perceive a sense of fulfilment and satisfaction, but he will also be engaged in ‘ibaadah and receive reward as he is assisting his family.
When a person passes his time by sitting with people and chatting about things that are futile, then he is at great risk of falling into harm, as the conversation often turns to gossip, complaining about people, and sometimes even involves backbiting. Hence, it is vitally important that one abstain from getting involved in discussions without a genuine need. (Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 8/289)
Source: Ihyaauddeen.co.za