boredom

scarf. Zegna
jewellery. Line & Jo

Being Bored; a feeling that many people experience from time to time. It often occurs when we have nothing to do, or when the activities we’re involved in don’t feel stimulating or interesting. However, boredom can also have some positive aspects and can affect us in ways we might not always be aware of.

In this Schön! editorial, photographer Claus Troelsgaard asks one central question: why do we get bored? Boredom often arises when we lack stimulation or variety. It can happen in situations where we don’t feel challenged or when we repeat the same actions without any sense of satisfaction. Our brain is constantly seeking new input and challenges, and when these are lacking, we can start to feel restless and bored.

Troelsgaard uncovered that there are some positive aspects of being bored, like:

Creativity: When we’re bored, our brain looks for ways to be stimulated. This can lead us to become more creative as we start thinking of new ideas and solutions to entertain ourselves.

Self-Reflection: Boredom gives us time to think and reflect on our lives, goals, and values. It can be an opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth.

Motivation for Change: The feeling of boredom can motivate us to change our situation. It can lead us to try new activities, learn new skills, or take initiative to improve our quality of life.

And, if one is bored, Troelsgaard also found some cures to ease boredom and tips on how to manage it:

Find a New Hobby: Try something new that you’ve always been curious about but never had the time for. This could be learning to play a musical instrument, painting, cooking, or taking up a new sport.

Read a Book: Books can transport you to new worlds and give you new perspectives. Find a genre you enjoy and immerse yourself in a good story.

Volunteer: Helping others can be a meaningful way to spend your time. Volunteering can provide you with new experiences and introduce you to new people.

Exercise: Physical activity can help combat boredom. Try going for a walk, running, cycling, or joining a fitness class.

Socialize: Spend time with friends and family. Being around others can give you new perspectives and activities to participate in.

Boredom is a natural part of life, but how we choose to respond to it can make a big difference. By embracing boredom as an opportunity for growth and change, we can use this feeling to our advantage.