Boredom- an overview

Boredom can be a catalyst for change and even instigate brilliance, pushing us to seek new experiences, hobbies, or challenges. It inspires us to break out of our routines, enriching our lives with fresh perspectives and opportunities. Our state of boredom tells us when we are outside our cognitive homeostatic set points- being either under-stimulated or overstimulated, we need to find something to engage in things we find meaningful.
The human mind is incapable of being idle for too long. Hence, we start noticing small things that might otherwise seem unnecessary. Boredom activates the left frontal side of the brain, when one starts searching for some stimulation or distraction to escape boredom.

 

The value of boredom

Let us look at two parallel situations: the state when one is unaware of its benefits; and post the awareness. Our lives are largely marked by constant activity and a relentless pursuit of stimulation, that makes us view boredom as wasted time. This gives us a shallow experience of existence, hardly offering moments of reflection and introspection. Without the space for boredom, creativity struggled to flourish, as new ideas often emerge from moments of mental quietness. Additionally, the relentless pursuit of stimulation led to burnout and fatigue.

Once enlightened on its goodness, boredom is no more feared and avoided; rather recognized and embraced as a catalyst for creativity, introspection, and personal growth. Instead of filling every moment with activity, individuals learn to appreciate the value of downtime and embrace moments of boredom as opportunities for reflection and discovery. Here boredom is no longer seen as a sign of laziness or apathy but rather as a natural part of the human condition. It is understood that moments of boredom can lead to profound insights and breakthroughs, as the mind is allowed to wander and explore new ideas. Boredom is seen as an opportunity for self-discovery through creative expression. Ironically, it helps productivity. A student who takes 10 minute breaks every 40 minutes while studying generally performs better than one who studies continuously for two hours. Stretching the mind beyond its attention span proves counterproductive.

 

What is a true break ?

In an age of social media gripping our lives, it is important not to give our virtual lives undue prominence. Rather than mindlessly indulging in social media, more time could be spent engaging in activities that involve direct interactions, pursuing hobbies and activities without the filter of screens. This makes one feel more connected and grounded in the physical world, fostering deeper relationships and experiences. At an individual level, one can take small steps towards this change. These include journaling instead of scrolling one’s phone, keeping one’s phone away when studying or spending quality time with one’s loved ones. This is possible only with the realisation of the need for the change.

 

Boredom: fresh perspectives

In order to get the best out of boredom, it needs to be relooked in a different light, in a rational holistic 360 degree view. For instance, contrary to regular critique about the negative impact of social media, it is important to realise that the abuse of social media creeps in when we allow it to control our lifestyle and not vice versa. If we apply due discretion and show determination to control its usage, we can use it constructively, even to relieve boredom. Further, when we have a singular event to focus on during boredom, the tendency to get distracted also dwindles and boosts our concentration power.

 

About the authors

The article has been contributed by the following students from Our Lady Queen of the Missions School Park Circus, Kolkata: Sirin Dutta, Aniqua Ashraf, Sidra Hayat and Sufia Sultana.