I was never allowed to be bored when I was growing up, or at least never to say it within earshot of anyone who had something for me to do for them. I learned early to never say “I’m bored” to my mom. She always found many, many things to relieve my boredom. I was no longer bored, though I may have been angry.

I guess the need to avoid boredom to keep out of extra work has led me to being busy enough that I don’t get bored. That, and I’m a single mom. There is always so much on my to-do list that I never get everything done.

I’ve always brought a book or magazine along whenever I go to any appointment anywhere. I use those times to catch up on reading and take a short break.

I’ve never thought about examining one’s boredom, but it is a worthwhile way to spend some time. I bet you get the chance to learn something about yourself as you delve into why you are bored.

Like Diane I hope you can find that there are nicer feeling too than anxiety.

I understand what you mean about addictions. But I hope that you can find alternatives to boredom that are satisfying, enjoyable and non-addictive.

Thanks for your comment.

That is an interesting concept as seen through an addictive mind set that feels impulsive activity from the cause of the feeling of boredom as a negative. That anxiety you speak of is easier instead of engaging in some healthful activity other than an addictive unhealthy one. It is kind of sad to me that anxiety would be a choice instead of so many other activities. But there seems to be a positive as I guess your anxiety too passes and then you can go on from there. I hope I understood your comment well enough? Hope this shifts your perspective a bit and maybe you can find some new hope in changing the dread you feel when boredom hits you.
Peace, Love and Joy,
Diane

This makes great sense. I generally have a book with me too. Thanks for raising paying attention to sensations – this is a great thing to do in my experience, it leads to some really interesting places. Thanks for your comment – I think it has really added to the conversation.

I think there are many powerful mysteries just on the other side of emotions we would rather not experience.

You listed a couple for boredom. I have found quite a bit of peacefulness out there as well.

I always have a book with me, now, so I rarely get bored. But if I start to, sometimes I’ll put down the book and just pay closer attention to the sensations in my body… the ones I associate with the boredom. This has been quite profound for me.

One of the instructors of meditation who I study, Shinzen Young, likes to say that when you really pay attention, “boredom is endlessly fascinating”

So I hope to get all the excitement that I can out of boredom… if that makes any sense at all… :-)

keep smiling,

Ben