Boredom isn’t a problem. It’s a secret weapon, and the training ground for grit, patience, and creativity.
When that feeling of boredom starts to creep in, it’s tempting to reach for your phone. But boredom is a hidden advantage—an opportunity you shouldn’t ignore. In fact, it’s the fertile ground where imagination grows. Boredom teaches creativity, patience, and resilience—the very strengths we need for lifelong success.
Let’s Put This in Perspective by Recalling the Past.
For those of a certain age, we need only think back to our own childhoods. Remember those long car rides staring out the window? Or waiting after church while your parents chatted with friends. Perhaps sitting in the dentist’s office with nothing to do but flip through outdated magazines.
At the time, it felt endless. But looking back, you know those moments built key life skills.
Today’s kids don’t have that same advantage, and many adults are losing those skills as well.
When boredom hits, a phone appears. Problem “solved.” Except it’s not.
Why We Feel Bored
In a world designed for instant gratification, our brains expect constant input. Screens, apps, and games deliver dopamine immediately. When stimulation stops, many of us have little muscle to sit quietly.
Consider these U.S. realities:
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Adults in the U.S. spend on average seven hours and three minutes per day on screens.
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Smartphone notifications reduce people’s ability to maintain cognitive control and focus
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The presence of alert sounds made participants respond more slowly on attention tasks
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Research shows that exposure to smartphone notifications (even when not acted upon) degrades performance on concurrent tasks
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A U.S. survey found 75% of Americans admit that digital notifications hurt concentration and lead to procrastination
What this means: Most of us live in a constant state of stimulation. So when screens go silent, discomfort follows, and that’s not accidental.
Research also backs the upside: Moderate boredom correlates positively with creativity and problem-solving.
What Boredom Builds (That No App Can)
These are life skills no algorithm can teach. When we resist the urge to fill silence, children develop:
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Creativity on demand: Loose material and empty space provide the opportunity to invent
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Emotional grit: Tolerating discomfort without meltdown strengthens resilience
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Patience muscles: Waiting becomes less agonizing, and more empowering
Mindfulness Exercises to Help You Stay Present
Proactive Moves That Help Build the Pause Muscle
During calm moments, ask: “When boredom comes, what are four things you can do other than reach for your phone?”
Consider creating screen-free zones, such as car rides, waiting rooms, and the dinner table. These will help increase your resilience.
Don’t Rush to Fill the Silence
Next time you feel bored, remind yourself it’s okay to fidget and daydream. Boredom isn’t wasted time. It's a free time with endless possibilities.
Remember, even boredom can be beautiful.
The next time you feel bored and want to reach for your phone, try one of these “Mindfulness Exercises” instead.
