The Power of Boredom: Unleashing Our Creativity
By Sydney Kurtz, LPC | Clinician at Head First Health
When was the last time you experienced boredom? How long did it last before you grabbed a distraction—a snack, your phone, or turned on the TV? Even on the go, many of us instinctively check our phones in an elevator or waiting room instead of engaging with the moment. The average American checks their phone 144 times per day. This shows how much we avoid boredom in favor of constant stimulation. But why does this matter? Boredom is the antithesis of creativity.
Why Creativity Matters for Everyone
Even if you don’t consider yourself “creative,” we all crave creativity in some form. Creativity doesn’t have to mean painting or writing—it could be cooking, dancing, standup comedy, styling hair or makeup, sewing, or other outlets. Creative expression is key for emotional well-being. Regular creative activity is associated with:
Lower anxiety
Improved mood
Immune system benefits
The Science of Creativity and Stress Relief
Studies show that just 45 minutes of creative activity can reduce cortisol, the primary stress hormone. During creative work, the amygdala, which processes fear and stress, becomes less active. This downregulation can lead to a flow state—a meditative-like immersion where time seems to disappear and your mind is fully engaged. Flow helps your brain shift out of fight-or-flight mode, allowing stress hormones to decrease.
Creativity as Emotional Expression
Creativity is also a tool for processing emotions that may be difficult to articulate verbally. It can help with:
Trauma
Anxiety
Depression
Creating something new often leads to a sense of accomplishment, boosting self-esteem. Even small creative acts can give the brain a reset, helping with emotional regulation and overall mental health.
Boredom as a Gateway to Fun and Creativity
Our society often prioritizes productivity and goal-setting, but what do you do purely for fun? True fun, without goals or performance metrics, can be deeply restorative. For example, playing basketball with friends for laughs and connection is very different from exercising solely for steps or calories.
The next time boredom creeps in, instead of reaching for a distraction, pause and ask yourself: How could I use this moment to create? Boredom can actually point to what’s missing in your life—a nudge toward curiosity, play, and creativity.
Disclaimer: I am not a medical doctor, and this article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment of any kind. The views and opinions expressed here are entirely my own and are shared for informational and personal reflection purposes only. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns.
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At Head First Health, our therapists specialize in holistic, evidence-based support for stress, anxiety, burnout, and more. We work with millennial and Gen-Z women across Illinois through virtual therapy.