Why being bored is better than you think

Do you remember what it’s like to be bored? Really, really bored, without your phone or a book or the radio playing? Was it on a long train- or car-ride as a kid, or during one of those math classes that seemed to stretch on forever?

Well, maybe being so bored isn’t as terrible as it feels sometimes. Because when we’re bored and don’t have distractions, then our brain tries to entertain us. We may look out the window and imagine someone parkouring alongside the car, gracefully keeping pace. Or we sink into fantasy worlds of our own making, filled with magic and adventures. All this dreaming and imagining helps us become more creative. As teachers we may find ways to better illustrate otherwise uninteresting subjects. As presenters we can think of better examples, as writers of better segues. And all that thanks to the fact that our brains were given the freedom to experiment and be creative instead of taking in information (but maybe you should still try to pay attention in math).

In our day to day lives boredom can help us even when we are the ones driving and no longer have to visit math class. Many a good idea has come to someone in the shower, when we have nothing else to do than the routine of washing ourselves and let our thoughts run free. Others may get their ideas when brushing their teeth, running without headphones or trying to clear their heads for meditation.

So next time you feel bored let your mind wander and who knows what great ideas you might come up with!