Exploring the Nature of Boredom

I actively combat boredom whenever it starts to encroach upon my life. My instinct is to take action, to engage in an activity. However, my long-standing aversion to boredom hasn’t always served me positively. The fact that it took me over 40 years to grasp this is puzzling.

In the past, I resorted to unhealthy distractions to escape feelings of boredom, including binge drinking and mindless eating. Though these behaviors are behind me now, they were significant challenges I faced. I experienced both weight gain and feelings of depression due to dissatisfaction with my life. My coping mechanisms? You guessed it: I drowned my sorrows in food and drink. It’s a relentless cycle, almost like a predatory loop that leaves marks.

What alternatives could I have pursued? - Avoid overloading my schedule - Opt for healthier hobbies and habits - Allow myself some quiet reflection time (as uncomfortable as it may initially seem)

As the Dalai Lama wisely states, "You are a human being, not a human doing."

Causes and Solutions for Boredom

So, what triggers boredom? It could be a lack of activities, repetitive tasks, or simply feeling overwhelmed. While routines can be beneficial, introducing a bit of variety is essential.

Try something new.

If that doesn’t alleviate the feelings of boredom, perhaps consider adjusting your perspective on it. A little boredom is completely normal.

I’ve started to embrace boredom, viewing it as a chance for growth rather than just an empty moment to fill. In those quiet times, creativity and unexpected insights often emerge. They compel me to take action, whether that involves finishing a long-due task or reconnecting with someone I haven't spoken to in ages.

Brina Patel emphasizes in The Healing Powers of Pausing that we tend to complicate matters unnecessarily. It doesn’t always require a grand act; sometimes, a simple, gentle nudge is what we need to heed. When boredom becomes overwhelming, it’s time to make a move.