Is boredom good for you? What studies found

Quick answer

The claim: being bored is actually good, and filling every gap with podcasts and videos is the problem. Others say background audio helps them through dull chores. Here's what research adds.

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What studies found

In a 2014 study in Science, many people found sitting alone with their thoughts for 6 to 15 minutes unpleasant. In one experiment, 67% of men and 25% of women gave themselves at least one mild electric shock rather than just sit and think.
In a 2014 study on boredom and creativity, people who first did a boring task came up with more creative ideas afterward than people who didn't.

Where the claim goes too far

Audio during chores or a commute can be a fine use of time.
Boredom at work isn't a creativity plan.

Leave some room

Take one walk a day with no audio.
Skip the phone in short waits.
Let a commute be quiet once a week.
See dopamine detox.

FAQ: questions people ask

Is being bored good for you?

Some boredom may help creativity. One study found people had more creative ideas after a dull task.

Why is it hard to sit with my thoughts?

A 2014 study found many people find it unpleasant, even for 6 to 15 minutes.

Should I stop listening to podcasts?

Not entirely. Leave some walks or commutes quiet.