The Psychology of Boredom: Why Do We Get Bored and How Can We Combat It?
Understanding Boredom and Its Unexpected Benefits
Introduction to Boredom
Boredom is something we've all experienced, but have you ever wondered why we get bored? In this lesson, we'll dive into the psychology behind boredom, exploring why it happens and how it can sometimes be beneficial…
Quote of the Day
"Only boring people get bored." — Unknown
Discussion Question: Do you agree with this statement? Why or why not? How do you think this quote relates to your own experiences with boredom?
First Breakout Room Discussion
Boredom Triggers
When do you find yourself getting bored the most? What do you think triggers it?
Coping Strategies
How do you usually deal with boredom? Do you think your methods are effective?
Understanding Boredom
Boredom is often seen as a negative experience, but it can also be a signal that prompts us to seek new challenges or change our environment. Psychologists suggest that boredom arises when we lack stimulation or find an activity meaningless. Today we will explore these ideas further.
Key Video Vocab
Listlessness
A state of lacking energy or enthusiasm.
Ennui
A feeling that combines tiredness and boredom
Menial (work)
Work that does not require much skill and lacks prestige.
Mind-wandering
The experience of thoughts not remaining on a single topic for a long period.
Crushing boredom
An intense feeling of boredom that feels overwhelming and stifling.
Drudgery
Hard, monotonous, or dull work.
Dwell
To think, speak, or write at length about a particular subject, especially one that is a source of anxiety or unease.
Mull things over
To think about something deeply and at length before making a decision.
Video Introduction
Let's watch a short video that explores why we get bored and what we can do about it. Pay attention to how the video explains the psychological triggers of boredom and how boredom can actually benefit us.
As you watch, think about how the concepts discussed apply to your own experiences with boredom.
Let's Watch!
Key Takeaways from the Video
Common Experience
Boredom is a common human experience that can arise from a lack of novelty or stimulation.
Dual Nature
While boredom can lead to risky behaviours, it can also be a catalyst for creativity and self-reflection.
Embracing Boredom
Embracing boredom and allowing your mind to wander can lead to unexpected insights and ideas.
Let’s Review the Key Words:
  1. Listlessness – A state of lacking energy or enthusiasm.
  1. Ennui – A feeling of dissatisfaction arising from a lack of occupation or excitement.
  1. Menial – (of work) not requiring much skill and lacking prestige.
  1. Mind-wandering – The experience of thoughts not remaining on a single topic for a long period.
  1. Crushing boredom – An intense feeling of boredom that feels overwhelming and stifling.
  1. Drudgery – Hard, monotonous, or dull work.
  1. Dwell – To think, speak, or write at length about a particular subject, especially one that is a source of anxiety or unease.
  1. Mull things over – To think about something deeply and at length before making a decision.
Key Vocabulary Recap Exercise
Activity: Let’s review the key vocabulary with a gap fill exercise. Complete the sentences below with the appropriate word or phrase:
  1. After hours of __________ work, she felt a sense of __________.
  1. The task was so repetitive that it left him feeling __________ and unmotivated.
  1. A lack of stimulation can lead to __________ boredom, making it hard to focus on anything.
  1. Sometimes, letting your mind __________ can lead to creative breakthroughs.
  1. He needed time to __________ things over before making a final decision.
  1. The long meeting felt like sheer __________, draining everyone's energy.
  1. During the dull lecture, her thoughts began to __________, making it hard to concentrate.
  1. He tended to __________ on negative thoughts, which made him feel even worse.
Key Vocabulary Recap Answers
Answers:
  1. After hours of menial work, she felt a sense of ennui.
  1. The task was so repetitive that it left him feeling listless and unmotivated.
  1. A lack of stimulation can lead to crushing boredom, making it hard to focus on anything.
  1. Sometimes, letting your mind wander can lead to creative breakthroughs.
  1. He needed time to mull things over before making a final decision.
  1. The long meeting felt like sheer drudgery, draining everyone's energy.
  1. During the dull lecture, her thoughts began to wander, making it hard to concentrate.
  1. He tended to dwell on negative thoughts, which made him feel even worse.
Second Breakout Room Discussion Questions
  • Can boredom ever be a positive force in your life? Share a time when boredom led you to do something unexpected.
  • How do you think our modern, constantly connected world impacts our experience of boredom? Is it harder or easier to feel bored today compared to the past?
  • Imagine a world where boredom didn’t exist. How do you think that would change human behavior and creativity?
Practical Tips for Embracing Boredom
Allow Yourself to Be Bored
Embrace moments of boredom as opportunities for reflection and creativity.
Engage in Mindful Activities
Use boredom as a chance to practice mindfulness or engage in activities that require minimal effort but encourage relaxation, like walking or meditating.
Challenge Yourself
Use boredom as a prompt to try something new or set a personal goal that challenges you to think differently.
Closing Thoughts
Boredom is a natural part of life, but how we choose to respond to it can make all the difference. By understanding the psychology behind boredom and using effective strategies, we can turn a potentially negative experience into an opportunity for growth and creativity.