by Why embracing dull moments might be the key to creativity and calm
In today’s fast-paced, always-connected world, boredom is often misunderstood and avoided. But what if embracing boredom is actually the secret to unlocking your creativity, calmness, and mental clarity? What if those “empty” moments—when we’re not scrolling, watching, or multitasking—are actually rich with possibility? This story was born from such a moment, during a lazy Saturday afternoon when I stopped fighting boredom and let it guide me.
It was a sweltering day, and I found myself sitting outside, trying (and failing) to come up with a new idea. I gave up eventually, not with frustration, but with unexpected peace. Life had been so hectic, and doing nothing felt oddly satisfying.
As I let go of the pressure to be productive, my mind began to wander—not anxiously, but gently. I found myself asking: What is boredom? Why do we fear it so much? And before long, I had the spark of an idea that would lead me on a journey into the psychology of boredom and its surprising benefits.
Instead of reaching for my phone—my usual boredom cure—I leaned into the feeling. That’s when I discovered Katy Tam, PhD, a psychology researcher at the University of Toronto who specializes in the science of boredom.
Why We’re So Afraid of Boredom
In a world that promotes constant stimulation—social media, streaming platforms, notifications—it’s easy to see boredom as a problem. The moment there’s a lull in activity, we instinctively reach for our phones.
But Dr. Katy Tam believes we’ve misunderstood boredom. “It’s a signal,” she says. “Your brain is telling you that what you’re doing lacks meaning or engagement, and it’s nudging you toward something more fulfilling.”
Instead of seeing it as a void, we should view boredom as a doorway to creativity and self-reflection.
What Boredom Makes Possible
When we allow ourselves to be bored, we create the space for creative thinking and mental clarity. Our minds, freed from digital distractions, begin to wander—and that’s where some of the best ideas are born.
Research shows that this kind of mind-wandering, triggered by boredom, boosts problem-solving and idea generation. “Some of your most original thoughts can come during so-called ‘empty’ moments,” says Tam.
Beyond creativity, boredom invites us to reconnect with ourselves. Without the constant noise of notifications, we may finally hear what our inner voice has been trying to say.
How to Reclaim the Benefits of Boredom
Want to experience the power of boredom for yourself? Here are a few ways to get started:
- Put down your phone: Start with just 5 minutes a day without any screens or external input.
- Take a walk without headphones: Let your thoughts flow freely. Pay attention to what you see, hear, and feel.
- Schedule unstructured time: Don’t fill every moment of your day. Leave space for stillness.
- Observe boredom without judgment: Instead of resisting, ask: What is this feeling telling me?
The Takeaway
Boredom is not the enemy—it’s an invitation. It’s your mind’s way of creating room for imagination, self-discovery, and rest. In our overstimulated lives, the art of doing nothing is more essential than ever.
So the next time boredom creeps in, don’t reach for the nearest distraction. Sit with it. Let your thoughts drift. You might just stumble upon your next big idea.
After all, that’s exactly how this story began.
