The Curious Case of Boredom: How to Contend with Boredom Well

🤔Boredom is a prevalent issue in schools, with a majority of high school students reporting being bored in school.

😴Boredom can lead to disinterest, lack of focus, and misbehavior in students.

📱Modern technology, such as smartphones, can be used as a means to avoid or distract from boredom.

🤷‍♂️Boredom is both subjective and objective, as what bores one person may be interesting to another.

🙅‍♂️Boredom should not be surrendered to, but rather addressed with strategies to find interest and engagement.

Why is it important to address boredom in schools?

—Addressing boredom in schools is crucial as it can lead to disinterest, lack of focus, and misbehavior among students. Chronic boredom can also result in student dropout rates.

How does technology contribute to avoiding boredom?

—Technology, such as smartphones, provides immediate access to entertainment and distractions, allowing individuals to avoid or distract themselves from feelings of boredom.

Is boredom a subjective or objective experience?

—Boredom is both subjective and objective. While certain activities or situations may bore one person, they may be interesting or engaging for another.

What are some common behaviors associated with boredom?

—When bored, individuals may exhibit behaviors such as daydreaming, engaging in addictive behaviors, or engaging in idle activities to pass the time.

How can boredom be addressed and overcome?

—To contend with boredom, individuals can protect their attention, engage in meaningful activities, pursue their interests, and find ways to maintain focus and engagement in various situations.

00:03The speaker recalls his son's first day of school and highlights the issue of boredom in educational settings.

01:15Boredom is a prevalent problem in schools, leading to disinterest, lack of focus, and misbehavior among students.

02:23Boredom extends beyond schools and can lead to troubling addictions, such as excessive drinking, eating, and spending.

03:15Boredom is both a subjective and objective experience, as what bores one person may be interesting to another.

08:49The speaker suggests three takeaways for contending with boredom: not trusting boredom, protecting attention, and engaging in conversations about boredom.