There’s tons of tips and tricks out there that claim to boost your productivity, and this is one of them. I’m not going to lie to you though – this is probably one of the most boring and annoyingly useful pieces of advice out there for boosting your productivity.
Information overload
Currently, we are constantly surrounded by information and stimulation. Every time you open your phone, you’re bombarded with notifications that, realistically, mean absolutely nothing. All this raises your baseline stimulation levels: there’s something new all the time!
So, what’s the problem?
Sounds pretty great, right? Constantly having fun? The thing is, if you’re constantly excited, then you’re never excited. Things that are normally really interesting become, in comparison, pretty dull. Basically, you lose motivation to do things that are important but less stimulating. That’s why you need to be bored!
How does it work?
Essentially, try to prevent yourself from constantly seeking out stimulation. Your baseline stimulation level will be lower, making mundane tasks seem interesting! This is also a form of mindfulness, which can help to improve your focus!
How can I be more bored?
Whenever you’re doing a “transitional” activity, let yourself feel bored. You don’t always need to be listening to music while walking or cleaning. Similarly, if you’re waiting for something, don’t reach for your phone – be bored for a second and allow yourself that moment of stillness.
Isn’t that just a dopamine fast?
Sort of – it’s based on the same principles, but the execution is different. In a dopamine fast, you completely cut off sources of dopamine (e.g. social media, emotional eating, and in some cases, talking to people). With this method, you “cut off” dopamine during interim moments.
