You Need to Be Bored. Here's Why.

About this video

• Video Title: You Need to Be Bored. Here's Why.
• Channel: Harvard Business Review
• Speakers: Arthur Brooks
• Duration: 00:05:50

Overview

This video, presented by Arthur Brooks, argues that boredom is essential for a meaningful life and that its avoidance, primarily through constant device use, contributes to increased depression and anxiety. Brooks explains the science behind boredom, the function of the brain's default mode network, and offers practical strategies to embrace boredom for greater happiness and purpose.

Key takeaways

• Boredom is essential for meaning and mental well-being: Avoiding boredom can lead to less meaning in life and increased depression.
• The Default Mode Network (DMN): This part of the brain activates when we are not cognitively occupied, allowing for introspection and consideration of life's bigger questions.
• Modern society's aversion to boredom: The constant availability of devices and entertainment provides an easy escape from boredom, effectively shutting down the DMN.
• Consequences of avoiding boredom: This avoidance leads to a lack of engagement with existential questions, contributing to societal increases in depression, anxiety, and a sense of hollowness.
• Strategies to embrace boredom: The video suggests practical steps like having device-free periods (e.g., after 7 PM, during meals), taking screen breaks, and consciously allowing for un-occupied time during commutes or workouts.
• Benefits of embracing boredom: Increased engagement with life, a greater sense of purpose, meaning, coherence, significance, and ultimately, increased happiness.