Productive uses for Mac Mini?

Hi all, I remember using my PC to download music back when i had dial up 10 years ago. I used to leave it running all night and in this way it was doing something productive. Now I have broadband and it's no longer an issue.
It seems like new hardware is mainly used for gaming. Can it be used for anything productive? what can I do with a Mac Mini to make my life better/more efficient.
I'm looking for something that I don't need to actively be at the Mac Mini and just want it to work by itself.
Is there anything else I could have my Mac Mini do during the night?
I thought the folks on here would have the knowledge I'm looking for!
I don't mind spending time learning a programming language if it'll give me a chance to use the Mac Mini for something!

Useful for almost anything, as a computer can run scripts or macros to perform tasks automatically; could be used for a total house control system, everything from feeding a kitty to open/close windows, on/off lights, water a yard, mow the lawn, and anything wireless technologies could do.
I even saw where someone put a mini in their car several years ago and it helped keep the owner connected to the internet, had touchscreen, voice communication without a handset, etc. Since it runs off DC voltage, it could run on a DC-to-DC converter, and not need an AC power supply. It could control a solar power grid with backup generation. There are so many devices that control other things. And room for a few more, if you want to put together some parts or make something to perform a task not done a peculiar way, before. With a round world, our night is someone elses day. What can you do for them half a world away? Is your imagination as boundless as it needs to be, to innovate a new or fun thing? Or be one of a few to offer a unique service. Put the mini in a helium balloon and let it go solar power, with backup battery, above the clouds and pollution. Wireless. Like a micro radio station to walk dogs.
If you are looking for a task for a Mini, you could let a server farm host it for you in their own facility. Not sure if that would be profitable to you, though. But then you wouldn't have to look at it! LOL
Good luck & happy computing!

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