Boredom allows for a clear mind that can breed imagination. In a study by Mann Sandi (2018), The Science of Boredom: The Upside (and Downside) of Downtime, adults had to complete tedious and boring tasks which revealed that the tasks ended up stimulating their imaginations, making them think in novel ways, according to PsychologyToday.com. 

I now take time when I wake up each morning to sit and think about anything that comes to mind because I believe it is

helping me expand my ways of thinking by allowing me to explore with no distractions. When I was younger, being bored led to the most exciting adventures: imaginary friends, battles and scenes created with toys and homemade forts. 

Boredom helps children develop planning strategies, problem-solving skills and organizational skills, according to ConnectionsAcademy.com. These are incredibly important skills that children need to navigate life and to become self-sufficient.

I remember being put in time-out when I was younger. Depending on my behavior, I could be sitting staring mindlessly at a wall for up to 20 minutes. As anyone who has interacted with a toddler before knows, 20 minutes might as well be 20 days. It felt like forever to me.

Now that I’m older, I appreciate that time I had without stimulation. I find that it’s easier to sit in a boring class or traffic, be in a waiting room or even wait for exciting news. 

Next time you find yourself stuck with no ideas, just sit. Take 5 to 10 minutes, and sit with your thoughts. You may be surprised at what you come up with.