Are You Bored!?
We aren't doing much this summer holidays - a mixture of not really having the time and wanting to save this summer instead of spending.
And I was, for a moment, concerned over my children being bored.
But then I remembered that it’s good for children to get bored - because then they use their imagination to create the fun times. I mean, parents/caregivers can help - but being bored means the opportunity to spark imagination. And it it does that for children…..
So, let’s dive into being bored - What is boredom? I want you to have a think before you read on.
It’s an uncomfortable feeling, a weird emotional state which can feel like lack of enthusiasm for what’s happening. It could occur with something that needs continuous attention - ironing, long distance driving or watching the same TV show for 8 hours for example. This creates a monotony of the mind - predictable and repetitive actions and thoughts can lead to boredom.
Proneness to boredom has been linked to addictive behavior - food, gambling, alcohol, drugs, sex, over spending, impulsive behavior and so on. HOWEVER - there are studies showing us that boredom can actually be good sometimes.
Our brains can get overloaded on information and attention - so stepping away can give us a mental break. Having the space to be bored is something not everyone can get. Taking a break long enough to get bored can ease overload symptoms.
Being bored can invite us to turn inwards and use our time for introspective thought. Our minds can wander, and daydream, and be creative. In a 2018 study (read it HERE) people were made to do boring tasks (e.g., reading reports or attending tedious meetings). The boring tasks encouraged their minds to wander, which led to creative ways of thinking. The study showed that with mundane activities we discover useful ideas.
If we were never bored, we would never seek excitement, or novelty, or adventure. Yes, we want to find adventures because it’s fun - but would we do it if our lives were overflowing with everything? No. We seek out excitement as a result of boredom (and other things).
Boredom is linked with the desire to do more - and so from boredom we can set new goals. And then reach them.
When we learn how to manage boredom we are teaching ourselves to manage control and focus - and that’s great!
How many of us allow space and time to just sit? You know I have been a fan of this for a long time - sitting and doing nothing other than being. How is doing nothing such a radical feeling!?
Let me know your thoughts through INSTAGRAM or email: Withlaurab@gmail.com
Until next time - L xx
