Chapter 1: The Subway Revelation

The other day, while commuting on the subway for a brief 15-minute journey, I decided to put my phone away. What I witnessed was quite alarming! In a carriage filled with 300 people, I appeared to be the sole individual not glued to a screen. This wasn't due to any extraordinary self-discipline; rather, it felt peculiar not being online. My mind seemed to yearn for entertainment, urging me to check “just one news article” or “another reel.”

Yet, paradoxically, this absence of distraction felt liberating! I allowed myself to be fully present, to let my mind wander, and to experience boredom.

Yes, boredom!

In today’s world, it’s a rarity. Our society is designed to keep us engaged around the clock. Social media platforms thrive on our scattered attention, aiming for maximum likes and shares. Streaming services have invested heavily in series rather than traditional films. The music industry is even altering song structures to cater to our dwindling attention spans.

We have become so accustomed to constant connectivity that it's bewildering. Every spare moment is seized to scroll through irrelevant content online. Is it necessary? Not at all. Yet we persist.

At some point, we collectively decided that boredom is the worst fate imaginable, leading us to avoid it at all costs. In doing so, we have effectively driven boredom to extinction, and this presents a significant issue.

Boredom is not merely an uncomfortable feeling; it can actually be beneficial for our minds. It serves as a catalyst for creativity, encourages daydreaming, and, ultimately, great ideas emerge from this state. When we allow ourselves time alone with our thoughts, that’s when the magic occurs. It’s the moment when innovative business concepts surface or when the desire to explore a creative hobby ignites.

For me, boredom fuels my writing process.

Writing can be challenging—it’s the transformation of chaos into coherence. Few people engage in writing for pure enjoyment; it's far easier to consume content on platforms like YouTube than to create something original.

I’m sure many can relate when I say that starting a writing session can feel daunting. There’s a certain level of boredom I must endure to reach the other side.

For me, this threshold is usually the first 20 to 30 minutes of writing. I know that once I push through that initial period, I can enter a productive flow. However, I must consciously make myself get there.

In the past, I tried to eliminate boredom, not realizing that it was exactly what I needed. Nowadays, I eagerly anticipate moments of boredom. Embracing this state has truly benefited my mind.

Here are some notable improvements I’ve observed:

• Creativity: Allowing time for daydreaming has led to a surge of fresh ideas, not only for writing but across various aspects of life.
• Mental Health: Stepping away from the relentless stream of content has been incredibly refreshing. Our brains require the reset that boredom provides. Constant external stimulation hinders our ability to excel in our endeavors.
• Clarity: This clarity becomes evident during my writing sessions. Once I surpass the boredom barrier, thoughts flow effortlessly, resulting in better editing.
• Productivity: Embracing boredom helps me regain focus. When I’m focused, tasks get completed swiftly.

Does this resonate with you?

If so, give boredom a chance. The next time you find yourself in a queue or facing a flight delay, resist the urge to reach for your device. Allow your mind to reboot. Daydream. Grab a pen and paper and see where it leads you.

Fight for your right to be bored!

Chapter 2: The Power of Embracing Boredom

In the video "Boredom is Extinct #standupcomedy #shorts," the creator humorously addresses the societal aversion to boredom and how it affects our creativity and daily life.

The second video, "They are Extinct #shorts," further explores the theme of boredom, shedding light on its impact on our mental health and creativity.