A short layover is not wasted time. The trick is to stop treating it like a miniature vacation and start treating it like a reset between flights.
Walk first
Before sitting again, take a full concourse lap. Movement helps, and it gives you a fast read on food, bathrooms, charging, and quieter gate areas.
Choose practical comfort
Water, a decent snack, a charged phone, and a clean restroom beat an ambitious plan every time when the connection is tight.
Keep the gate visible
If boarding starts soon, stay close enough that you can see or quickly reach your gate. That tiny choice removes a lot of background stress.