Why We Fear Boredom—and How It Can Actually Help Us Grow

Why We Fear Boredom—and How It Can Actually Help Us Grow

Boredom can be an uncomfortable feeling. Many of us fear it because it feels like an emptiness, and our natural reaction is to fill that emptiness as quickly as possible. We might keep busy with things that aren’t really meaningful or helpful, just to avoid that uncomfortable feeling. But here’s something surprising—boredom actually has some hidden benefits! If we learn to sit with it, boredom can open us up to new ideas, rest, and even growth.

Why We’re Scared of Boredom

Boredom can feel unsettling because it brings us face-to-face with a stillness we aren’t used to. With all the stimulation we have from technology, work, and social activities, being “busy” has become our comfort zone. So, when we’re not occupied, we can feel restless or even anxious. Many of us might fill the time by checking our phones, watching TV, or doing activities that don’t have much purpose, just to escape that awkward feeling.

A personal example is that I don’t like being bored either. I sometimes find myself filling my time with random things just to stay busy, even if those activities don’t add much value to my life. But here’s the twist—by constantly avoiding boredom, we might actually be holding ourselves back.

The Twist: Boredom Leads to Growth

Here’s the interesting part about boredom: it’s not just emptiness. When we allow ourselves to be bored, we give our minds a break from constant input. This quiet time lets our brains rest and, surprisingly, often leads to fresh ideas and inspiration. Think of it like a blank canvas. When we allow space and stillness, new thoughts and ideas can pop up, often things we wouldn’t think of while distracted.

Being bored can also help us discover what really matters to us. Instead of filling every moment with something random, boredom encourages us to ask, “What do I really want to do with this time?” This can lead to more meaningful choices and even creativity.

Facing Our Fears for Growth

The fear of boredom is just one example of how avoiding something uncomfortable can become a wall to our growth. Growth often happens on the other side of our fears. When we lean into what feels challenging or uncomfortable, we learn about ourselves, build resilience, and develop skills that help us face life’s challenges.

So, if you find yourself filling every empty moment with small distractions, consider trying to sit with your boredom. Allow your mind to wander without judgment or the need to fill it up right away. You might be surprised by the sense of calm and clarity it can bring. And who knows? You may even uncover something meaningful that inspires you.

In the end, facing boredom is a lot like facing any other fear—it’s a step towards discovering a part of ourselves we didn’t know was there. So next time boredom creeps in, try to welcome it as a friend instead of fearing it. You may just find it’s the door to new ideas, rest, and growth.