220+ Responses to "What Are You Up To" For Any Situation

You get a text: “What are you up to?” At first glance, it seems like a harmless question. But let’s be real, sometimes answering it feels like solving a riddle. What do they want to know? Is this just small talk or is there something more going on?

Whether it’s a friend, a crush, a coworker, or someone totally random, your response can shape the entire direction of the conversation. In this guide, we’ll break down how to respond to “What are you up to” in different situations, with plenty of real-life examples, tips, and even some flirty comebacks.

By the end of this article, you’ll never be stuck staring at your screen wondering what to say again.

Table of Contents

220+ Responses to “What Are You Up To”

Casual / Chill

Just laying low today.
Kinda doing nothing and loving it.
Scrolling through my phone, honestly.
Enjoying some peace and quiet.
Not much, just taking it easy.
Just vibing, really.
Having one of those lazy afternoons.
Chillin’ with some music on.
Sitting around in my pajamas.
Mentally checked out and proud of it.

Busy / Working

Trying to power through this to-do list.
Work’s been nonstop today.
In the middle of a bunch of tasks right now.
Wrapping up a deadline at the moment.
Buried in emails, as usual.
Jumping between meetings all day.
Juggling five things at once, not even kidding.
Knee-deep in work stuff.
Just grinding it out today.
Busy but making progress!

Social / Hanging Out

Grabbing a bite with some friends.
Out catching up with people I haven’t seen in a while.
Just hanging out with the crew.
Game night’s happening right now.
Laughing way too hard with my friends.
At a coffee shop chatting with someone.
Having a chill night with my roommates.
Talking nonsense and loving every second of it.
At a little get-together right now.
Just catching some good vibes with good company.

Errands / Chores

Grocery run turned into five extra stops.
Laundry day… finally.
Just got back from running errands.
Cleaning out my car before it becomes a biohazard.
Ticking off some long-overdue chores.
Folding clothes and pretending it’s fun.
Sorting through the fridge like a grown-up.
Doing a quick tidy-up around the house.
Trying to make adulting look easy.
Checking off my weekend errands list.

Studying / Learning

Deep in study mode right now.
Reviewing notes before I forget everything.
Watching a lecture video that’s way too long.
Trying to make sense of this textbook.
Learning a new concept and it’s kinda cool.
Cramming, as usual.
Reading something for class — slowly but surely.
In the zone with study stuff.
Memorizing things I’ll forget in a week.
Just trying to survive this study session.

Exercise / Fitness

Just got back from a quick run.
Mid-workout and sweating like crazy.
Finishing up at the gym.
Doing a home workout before I lose motivation.
On a long walk to clear my head.
Getting some fresh air with a jog.
Tried yoga today — kinda loved it.
Lifting weights and pretending I know what I’m doing.
In beast mode (or trying to be).
Stretching it out post-workout.

Creative Activities

Sketching out some ideas I had earlier.
Writing a little just to get thoughts out.
Doodling in my notebook.
Editing a photo I took last weekend.
Playing around with music production.
Making something random just for fun.
Trying a new art style today.
Brainstorming for a project I’m excited about.
Filming a quick video just to try it out.
Creating, even if it’s messy.

Travel / Exploring

Walking around a new part of town.
Just arrived in a place I’ve never been before.
Exploring and getting a little lost.
Taking in the views — they’re insane.
On the road, playlist blasting.
Checking out a cute little café I found.
Day trip vibes today.
Traveling light and feeling free.
Doing some touristy stuff and loving it.
New city, new energy.

Watching / Consuming Media

Binge-watching a series I should’ve started ages ago.
Catching up on YouTube videos.
Watching a documentary that’s way more intense than I expected.
Rewatching my comfort show.
Got a movie on in the background while I chill.
Scrolling TikTok longer than I care to admit.
Starting a new podcast episode.
Watching something random but surprisingly good.
Listening to an audiobook while I zone out.
Tuning out with some streaming.

Playing Games

Just jumped into a match with some friends.
Grinding levels in this new game I found.
Losing badly but still having fun.
Trying to beat this boss for the fifth time.
Taking a quick break with some mobile games.
On a serious winning streak right now.
Playing something cozy and chill.
Testing out a game that just dropped.
In a full-on gaming zone today.
Just messing around in sandbox mode.

Eating / Cooking

Making some pasta from scratch.
Just had the best sandwich, not gonna lie.
Cooking up something experimental.
Snacking more than I should be.
Trying a recipe I saw on Instagram.
Just finished meal prepping for the week.
Heating up leftovers and calling it gourmet.
Making breakfast for dinner because why not.
Baking cookies and trying not to eat all the dough.
Currently deciding what to eat next.

Relaxing / Self-care

Taking a break and just breathing.
Doing a little skincare and chill.
Taking a hot shower and zoning out.
Just laying down with some music on.
Trying to unwind after a long day.
Having a no-pressure kind of day.
Sitting in silence and it feels good.
Reading a bit and enjoying the quiet.
Doing absolutely nothing on purpose.
Recharging before life comes back at me.

Planning / Organizing

Sorting out my week so I don’t fall apart.
Making a to-do list I’ll try to follow.
Cleaning up my notes and files.
Looking over plans for the weekend.
Updating my calendar like a grown-up.
Organizing stuff that’s been piling up.
Rearranging my space a little.
Trying to set some goals without overthinking.
Figuring out what needs to get done first.
Planning ahead just to feel a little in control.

Daydreaming / Thinking

Just lost in thought right now.
Letting my mind wander a bit.
Thinking about stuff that doesn’t matter but still feels important.
Imagining how life could look in five years.
Daydreaming instead of being productive.
Reflecting on some recent convos.
Spacing out and not mad about it.
Thinking through a random idea I had.
Mentally making up stories again.
Having one of those deep-thought moods.

Outdoors / Nature

Taking a walk and enjoying the breeze.
Sitting outside and soaking in some sun.
Hiking a trail I’ve never tried before.
Listening to birds and doing absolutely nothing.
Watching the sky change colors.
Just out here breathing fresh air.
Found a quiet spot by some trees.
Exploring a park I haven’t been to in a while.
Hanging out with nature for a bit.
Walking barefoot on grass because why not.

Work Break / Downtime

Taking five before I dive back in.
Stepping away from my screen for a sec.
Grabbing a quick coffee and catching my breath.
Mid-break and trying not to think about emails.
Stretching a bit between tasks.
Doing nothing for ten blessed minutes.
Just resting my brain for a bit.
On a break and not checking my messages.
Squeezing in some downtime while I can.
Hiding from responsibilities temporarily.

Waiting / Passing Time

Just killing time right now.
Waiting on a call to start.
Sitting around until something happens.
Scrolling while I wait for my ride.
In that weird in-between time.
Passing time till dinner, honestly.
Waiting on hold and regretting everything.
Stuck in a waiting room right now.
Just filling the gap between now and later.
Passing the time the best I can.

Nothing in Particular

Honestly, just kind of floating through the day.
Not doing much, just existing a little.
You know, one of those “nothing but somehow still busy” kind of days.
Just here, doing a whole lot of nothing.
Kinda just letting the day decide for me.
Absolutely nothing productive, and I’m not mad about it.
Just chilling in that weird space between bored and content.
Mentally off the clock, physically on the couch.
Nothing in particular, just letting the hours drift.
Kinda here, kinda not, doing a whole lot of nothing.

Pet Time / Animal-related

Playing tug-of-war with my dog like it’s a championship.
Trying to convince my cat not to sit on my laptop.
Out on a walk with my furry little shadow.
Having a very serious conversation with my pet.
Brushing fur off everything I own.
Currently being used as a nap surface by my pet.
Feeding time chaos, as usual.
Watching my pet do something weird and adorable.
Throwing toys, receiving judgmental stares.
Just got roped into a cuddle session I can’t escape.

Helping Others

Helping a friend move and instantly regretting it.
Running errands for someone who needed a hand.
Babysitting for a couple of hours.
Lending a hand with some community stuff.
Helping someone troubleshoot their tech, again.
Picking up groceries for my neighbor.
Giving a friend a ride across town.
Volunteering today, just trying to show up.
Helping a family member sort things out.
Just trying to be useful where I can.

Feeling Overwhelmed

Honestly? Kinda drowning in everything.
Trying to do five things at once and failing gracefully.
Just barely keeping it together right now.
Overthinking, overstressing, overwhelmed — the trilogy.
Spinning plates and one just dropped.
Holding it down but barely.
Stuck in that “everything’s urgent” zone.
Trying not to lose it over tiny things.
My brain’s buffering today.
Treading water in a sea of to-dos.

Being Mysterious / Playful

Can’t say, it’s top secret.
Let’s just say… things are happening.
If I told you, I’d have to make it more dramatic.
Just doing villainous things, nothing to worry about.
Cooking up something, but you’ll see soon.
That’s classified information… for now.
Just out here being a little mysterious.
I could tell you, but where’s the fun in that?
Doing stuff… and maybe causing a little chaos.
Let’s just say it’s one of those days.

Understanding the Question

It’s Not Always About What You’re Doing

Let’s be honest. Most of the time, when someone asks, “What are you up to?”, they don’t really need a play-by-play of your day. It’s often just a

or a casual way to check in. The question can have layers of meaning depending on context and tone.

Texting vs Talking in Person

Tone is everything. When someone asks this over text, there’s no body language, no voice tone, no facial expression to give you clues. That’s why the same question might feel friendly in one case and nosy in another. If someone asks you in person, you can usually tell from their tone and body language what they really mean.

Timing Tells a Story

Let’s say you get that question at 11 a.m. from a coworker. It probably means they want to discuss something work-related. Now imagine getting the same question from a crush at 11 p.m. That might be a completely different vibe, right?

Pay attention to who’s asking, when they’re asking, and how they’re asking. That gives you all the context you need to craft the perfect reply.

Why Your Response Matters

It Sets the Tone for the Conversation

If you reply with just “nothing”, you might end the conversation right there. But if you give a thoughtful or fun answer, you’re inviting the other person in. Whether you’re trying to make a friend, impress someone, or just keep things light, your response makes a difference.

It Shows Your Personality

A creative or witty reply shows confidence and a sense of humor. An honest one builds trust. A short and vague answer? That might come off as distant or uninterested, even if that’s not your intention.

Fun and Casual Responses

If You’re Relaxing or Doing Nothing

These are great for keeping things low-key and friendly:

Just chilling and pretending I don’t have anything to do today
Trying to decide if I should nap now or nap later
Laying on the couch being wildly unproductive, and loving it

If You’re in a Playful Mood

These responses can spark laughter and keep the convo fun:

Currently having a very serious argument with my cat. I’m losing
Just trying to remember where I put my motivation
Scrolling aimlessly and questioning my life choices

Humor is a great way to connect, especially if you’re chatting with a friend or someone you’re trying to get closer to.

Honest and Friendly Responses

Sometimes, being straightforward is the best move. You can still keep it friendly and open.

If You’re Busy

Just working on a project, but I can chat for a bit
Kinda swamped with stuff today, what about you?
In the middle of some errands, but I’ll text you when I get a break

If You’re Free

Not much, just relaxing. You?
Just enjoying a quiet afternoon. Anything exciting on your end?
Nothing planned right now. Want to do something?

Giving the other person something to bounce off helps the conversation flow more naturally.

Flirty Responses to “What Are You Up To”

When the vibe is romantic or playful, your response can open the door for some flirty banter.

If You’re Into Them

Thinking about you. Too cheesy? Maybe. Still true
Waiting for you to ask me out
Wishing someone cute would ask me what I’m up to… oh wait, you just did

If You’re Feeling Bold

Nothing yet, but my night’s wide open if you’ve got ideas
I was just wondering when you were going to message me
Honestly? Daydreaming. But I’ll let you guess about what

Flirty replies don’t have to be over the top. A little playful teasing goes a long way.

Professional or Polite Responses

When you’re dealing with coworkers, managers, or anyone in a professional setting, keep things simple and respectful.

Appropriate for Work or Formal Conversations

Working on the task we discussed earlier
Just wrapping up some paperwork
In a meeting at the moment. Can I get back to you soon?

If You Need to Be Polite but Private

Just taking care of some personal stuff
Handling a few things today. Hope you’re doing well
Keeping busy with life’s never-ending to-do list

These types of responses keep it professional without revealing too much.

Vague But Friendly Responses

Sometimes, you might not feel like sharing. That’s totally fine. You can still be polite.

Not much, just enjoying a quiet moment
Just relaxing. What about you?
Keeping it lowkey today

These are safe replies that don’t give away too much but still keep the door open for conversation.

If You Want to Keep the Conversation Going

The best way to keep a convo alive is to give them something to respond to.

Ask a Question Back

Not much. What about you?
Just chilling. Got anything fun going on?
Nothing exciting yet. Any plans today?

Turning the question back to them shows interest and keeps things moving naturally.

Invite Them In

If you’re hoping to hang out, don’t be afraid to throw it out there.

Just making some food. Want to join?
Thinking of getting some coffee. Want to come along?
Not much. Wanna meet up?

A simple invitation can be the spark for a spontaneous hangout.

When You Want to Shut It Down Gently

Not every convo is one you want to have. You can still be kind without engaging too much.

Just taking some time for myself today
Can’t really chat right now, but hope you’re doing well
Got a lot on my plate, but I’ll reach out soon

Setting boundaries while being respectful is perfectly okay.

Using Humor to Stand Out

Humor makes people feel good and remember you. If you’re naturally funny, go for it.

Witty Examples

Staring into the fridge like it’s going to give me answers
Trying to adult. It’s not going well
On a secret mission to procrastinate for as long as possible

If the person has a good sense of humor too, this can really help create a fun connection.

Reading the Situation

Know Your Audience

The way you reply to your best friend is totally different from how you’d reply to your boss. Before you hit send, think: Who’s asking and what’s their tone?

Match Their Energy

If they’re being casual, be casual. If they’re being flirty, lean into it if you’re into them. If they seem serious, keep it respectful.

Matching their vibe keeps the conversation natural and avoids awkwardness.

Practice Makes Perfect

Yes, even for texting.

If you often get stuck not knowing how to respond, take a minute to think about the types of responses that feel true to you. Make a little mental list. That way, when someone does ask what you’re up to, you don’t panic or overthink.

It’s like preparing for small talk, but in a way that fits your personality.

Conclusion

No matter who’s asking or why, having a quick, witty, or heartfelt response to “What are you up to?” can make your conversations smoother and more engaging. With these 220+ responses, you’re now equipped for just about any interaction—be it playful, casual, professional, or romantic. And if you’re ever caught off guard by a more intense question like “What’s wrong with you?”, check out our full guide on 220+ Clever Responses to “What’s Wrong With You” to handle that with humor or grace too.

FAQs

Q. What if I don’t feel like talking when someone asks “What are you up to”?

You don’t owe anyone a detailed update. A polite and simple response like “Just taking it easy today” or “Handling a few things, catch you later?” works perfectly.

Q. Can I ignore the message if I’m not in the mood?

You can, but it’s generally more respectful to send a quick reply, even if it’s short. Something like “Can’t chat right now, but hope you’re good” maintains the relationship without committing to a full conversation.

Q. How do I know if someone’s flirting with “What are you up to”?

Look at timing, emojis, and follow-up questions. If they ask late at night, include winky faces, or suggest meeting up, there’s probably some flirtation going on.

Q. What’s the best flirty response to “What are you up to”?

Try something playful and inviting like “Waiting for someone to ask me that… guess my wish came true” or “Thinking about you. Want to come over?”

Q. How can I respond without being too personal?

Keep it general but polite. You can say “Just getting through the day” or “Doing some stuff around the house” if you don’t feel like giving specifics.