02 Rediscovering Boredom
June 28, 2025
The Power
of Boredom
Remember
how we used to create and conquer entire worlds and expansive realms out of
thin air?
Entertaining ourselves so effortlessly, our imaginations running
wild, conjuring worlds and stories upon stories simply out of boredom — or
perhaps necessity.
Now, with a
brief hint of boredom, we instinctively reach for our devices to preoccupy our
minds. Why do we detest boredom so much? When, like all emotions, it’s something
we’re meant to sit with and process. Boredom is a natural part of growing and
exploring the world both around us and within ourselves.
Research
Studies suggest
that boredom can be beneficial:
-
1. Creative Thinking – Research found that individuals that engaged in boring activities are
more likely to engage in creative thinking. Boredom allows the mind to turn off
filters and go beyond usual patterns of thoughts.
- 2. Problem-Solving – Boredom primes the brain to
perform better on problem-solving tasks. When we are not preoccupied, our minds
naturally process and form novel ideas and solutions.
A Calling
I believe we’re
all born with an innate desire to create. The desire to consume, entertain or
create often takes on the form of boredom/emerges in the form of boredom.
Rather than
seeing boredom as an enemy, we can view it as an invitation – a call to action.
It’s an
opportunity to engage with yourself and the world on a deeper level.
In our fast-paced
society, boredom is a privilege. It’s a chance to intentionally slow
down and perceive the world through a different lens. When we allow ourselves
to sit with boredom, we give our brains the space needed for rest and renewal.
Next time
when you feel bored, embrace it. Let your mind wander and rediscover new worlds
around – and the worlds you once created.
References:
Global
Leaders Institute for Arts Innovation. (2024, June 13). The Surprising Power of Boredom: Unlocking
Creativity and Problem-Solving | Global Leaders Institute. Global Leaders
Institute. https://www.globalleadersinstitute.org/blog-post/the-surprising-power-of-boredom-unlocking-creativity-and-problem-solving/#:~:text=The%20Connection%20Between%20Boredom%20and,laundry%20or%20taking%20a%20walk.
Mann, S.,
& Cadman, R. (2023). Does Being Bored Make Us More Creative? ResearchGate. https://doi.org/10.1080//10400419.2014.901073
Ndetei, D. M., Pascalyne Nyamai,
& Mutiso, V. (2023). Boredom–understanding the emotion and its impact on
our lives: an African perspective. Frontiers
in Sociology, 8.
https://doi.org/10.3389/fsoc.2023.1213190