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One of the worst things about enduring the three weeks of August before school starts is listening to the constant refrain of, “Mom, I’m bored.” Indeed, by the time the summer ends and back to school is about ready to begin, I’m pretty bored myself. However, just because we dread boredom doesn’t mean that it isn’t good for you. Indeed, a little boredom in life can actually help you improve yourself and become better at what you do.

It’s important to note, though, that not all boredom is created equal. A lengthy boredom can lead to depression — or to damaging impulsivity. No, the kind of boredom that might be good for you is actually the transient kind: The kind of boredom that is more of a temporary state.

Boredom Can Boost Creativity

Interestingly, boredom can actually boost your creativity. The void you feel in the use of your time during periods of boredom can actually produce creative brain waves. Without the distractions of busy-ness and lots happening, your wandering mind has the freedom to hit on something momentous and creative. You have the chance to allow your creative juices to flow in an environment that you find boring. So, let your mind wander when you’re bored, and reap the benefits.

Can Boredom Help Your Productivity?

When you get bored, sometimes the answer is to become productive. If you are bored with your home office, you can take a few minutes to think of ways to combat the boredom, and turn your boredom into productivity. If you find yourself bored in downtime, look for ways to turn the time to a productive use, such as brainstorming, or working out the logistics of an idea. You can also use boredom as a spur to get things done. If you are bored with your work, try taking a break, and then coming back to it with fresh eyes later. Or set a timer and try to get the work done faster, so you can move on to something less boring.

Use Boredom as a Way to Transition into Meditation or Relaxation

Rather than fidgeting and wishing that things were “more exciting,” you can use boredom as a way to learn to be still. Stillness can be good for you. You can use time you are bored to transition into meditation or relaxation. Stillness can help you refresh your body and your mind, and learning to enjoy the stillness can be healthy for you on a number of levels. Use your boredom as a way to learn to benefit from being still.

Boredom Can Be Good for Your Child

Boredom isn’t just good for you; it can also be good for your child. Downtime can be a great opportunity for your children to explore what they can enjoy, and it can teach them patience. It’s also a good lesson that not everything is life is entertaining. It offers them the chance to learn that not everyone is hear to keep them busy. It can be a good character building exercise to help them learn about dealing with problems later in life.

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