Being bored can provide us with a sense of mental clarity and focus, allowing us to tackle problems and tasks with renewed energy and perspective.
In today’s fast-paced world, being bored may seem unnecessary or like a waste of time. However, boredom can actually have surprising benefits for our creativity and problem-solving abilities. When we are bored, our brains are forced to look for stimulation, which can lead to new and creative ideas, and foster creativity.
Being bored can provide us with a sense of mental clarity and focus, allowing us to tackle problems and tasks with renewed energy and perspective.
My favorite example of this comes from Mark Rober, a former NASA engineer and one of my son’s favorite YouTubers. In one of his videos, Rober explains how he came up with the idea for a squirrel obstacle course while waiting for a flight at the airport. He had been scrolling through his phone and was feeling unproductive, so he decided to put his phone away and just let his mind wander. As he watched the squirrels outside the window, he started to think about ways to create a fun and challenging obstacle course for them. This idea eventually led to a viral video that has been viewed millions of times.
Another example, along a similar vein, is that of the German scientist, Otto Loewi. Loewi discovered the chemical transmission of nerve impulses by conducting an experiment in which he fell asleep after working on a problem. While he was asleep, he dreamed of an experiment involving a frog’s heart, which led him to his breakthrough discovery.
In the arts, Salvador Dali used rest to enhance his creative output. He would take a nap in a chair while holding a key in his hand, allowing himself to fall asleep without letting go of the key. When the key dropped to the floor, he would wake up in a heightened state, ready to work on his art. This technique is believed to have allowed Dali to access his subconscious mind and generate new and unconventional ideas for his artwork. (I’ve not tried this particular approach, but I do keep a notebook at my bedside, to scribble notes much like Loewi, upon waking.)
Creative thinkers from across the ages show how being bored can boost our brain power.
These examples highlight the idea that being constantly stimulated by our phones and other devices can actually hinder our creativity and productivity. When we are always connected and entertained, we never give our brains a chance to rest and wander. By taking breaks from our screens and allowing ourselves to be bored, we open ourselves up to new ideas and possibilities.
Similarly, engaging in novel or unfamiliar activities can also lead to increased creativity. Doing something new and different can stimulate the brain and help us think in new ways. When we are bored, our brains are more open to new ideas and are more likely to make unexpected connections. This can be especially useful when trying to solve complex problems or come up with new ideas. In fact, something as simple as taking a different route during your usual commute can make a surprising difference.
When we engage in mindless scrolling and consumption of content, we are often passively receiving information without actively processing it. This can lead to a feeling of mental clutter and overload, making it harder to focus and think critically. On the other hand, being bored can provide us with a sense of mental clarity and focus, allowing us to tackle problems and tasks with renewed energy and perspective.
Creative thinkers from across the ages show how being bored can boost our brain power. By embracing moments of boredom and disconnecting from our devices, we can give our minds a chance to rest, recharge, and generate new ideas. Being bored can help us think outside the box, solve problems more efficiently, and come up with novel and innovative ideas. To fully harness the power of boredom, try allowing yourself to become fully immersed in your surroundings and explore new creative avenues. By doing so, you can tap into your innate creativity and find inspiration in unexpected places.
So, the next time you feel bored, don’t reach for your phone or other distractions. Instead, embrace the feeling and see where your mind takes you. You might just be surprised at the amazing ideas you come up with. I’m excited to hear what you discover.
Custom shrinky-dink resin inlay pendants by Jen, inspired by a ‘bored moment’
