Bored
Is boredom getting you down? After years of being programed to always have something to do, retirement can make you a little crazy, maybe even a little bored.
When we were children complaining of boredom did not illicit anything close to sympathy, so why now? We were told to find a way to entertain ourselves or “they” would find something unpleasant for us to do. We would scurry off and surprise of surprise, boredom would often turn into an adventure.
We are the parents and/or grandparents now and the shoe is on the other foot. Not to worry. We have science on our side. Researchers are telling us pretty much the same things that our parents did, that boredom is not a bad thing. In fact, they go so far as to say that boredom is good for your mental health and well-being.
When you are bored your mind is free to wander away from required tasks. If you are lucky, you might even be considered a great “thinker” instead of a “doer,” also know as the “worker bee”.
In a world where we have been constantly on the go this is no easy task. Psychologically speaking, it is almost impossible. We have been programed to be “doers.” Moments of apparent inactivity make us feel uneasy.
It is time to stop over-thinking things. Scientists tell us that boredom is a good thing, and they use words like health and creativity. It is time to realize that boredom is not the enemy. Think of it as a gentle nudge, a hint, that it is time to shake things up a bit.
Sounds reasonable, and doable, don’t you think? You have been looking for ways to calm your mind, to think, and to be creative, for as long as you can remember. Perhaps, now is the time.
The beauty of boredom is that it forces you to tap into your inner creativity and imagination. Boredom encourages you to try new things and to leave your comfort zone. Go ahead, allow your mind to wander and daydream. Enjoy the benefits. Your brain will thank you.
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