Why boredom is so essential to creativity

When was the last time you were truly bored and let your thoughts flow freely? Almost every time we have the opportunity, we automatically pick up our smartphone, open a podcast, browse social media, or find something new to do.

But such constant activity can have its own consequences, says German neuroscientist and author Friederike Fabritius.

A constant state of cognitive busyness can negatively impact our ability to think creatively or regulate our emotions in the long run.

Fabritius explains why it's important to do nothing—even if it initially seems like unproductive time. By doing so, we ensure that the so-called Default Mode Network (DMN) is given some space in our daily lives.

Simply put, the DMN is a group of brain regions that are active when we are not engaged in specific tasks - for example, when we are daydreaming, reflecting, or recalling memories.

Let your thoughts flow freely in everyday life.

Creative moments often occur when the DMN is active. Studies suggest that people are more creative when they have had a short period of downtime before a task.

However, many people have largely eliminated boredom from their daily lives, according to Fabritius.

So how can we bring it back? She says to try to take advantage of opportunities during your daily routine:

During your commute: no podcasts, no music, no phone calls: once a week, you should try to be alone with your thoughts on your way to work. This may feel uncomfortable at first. Your brain needs time to adjust to the unfamiliar sensation.

During your scheduled downtime: Fabritius advises setting aside 15 minutes a day in your journal to do nothing. She suggests simply sitting on the balcony, lying in bed, or simply staring at the wall. The goal is to let your thoughts wander, without any goal or productivity in mind.

In the shower: Warm water, repetitive movements, no external stimuli. Turn your shower into a motionless, stress-free zone, and create conditions in which your brain can relax and your thoughts can wander freely. You may have discovered that you have some of your best ideas while you are in the shower./ DPA News.