Orthopedagogist Karim El Amrani explains what boredom is and offers tips to reduce boredom.

What is boredom?

‘Boredom means that you do not feel motivated and do not know what to do,’ explains Karim. ‘You have a need for distraction and fun, but do not know where to start.’ Boredom often occurs when you have no obligations, such as in your free time, or during boring tasks, such as homework.

Although boredom sometimes feels frustrating, it is a natural reaction of your brain. ‘It can even help you discover new interests or structure your life differently,’ says Karim. ‘But it can also lead to unhealthy behavior, such as constantly scrolling on your phone or snacking.’

Is boredom good or bad?

According to Karim, boredom is not necessarily good or bad. ‘It has two sides. On the one hand, it can give you peace and space to think for a moment. You might discover that you have actually always been too busy and enjoy doing nothing for a while.’

But on the other hand, boredom can make you feel gloomy or lonely. ‘It can feel as if nothing has meaning, and as a result, you might move less, eat poorly, or worry out of boredom.’ It is important to find a balance between rest and activity.

What can you do to combat boredom?

• Try something new: discover a new hobby, such as drawing, making music, or writing a book. Or look for creative ideas online, such as a dance routine or a DIY project.
• Move more: go for a walk, rollerblade, or exercise. It helps not only your body but also your mood.
• Make time for friends: meet up with friends, play a board game, or call each other via FaceTime.
• Tidy up your surroundings: organize your room, make a bucket list, or sort through old photos. You often feel better in a tidy environment.
• Turn off your phone for a while: give yourself a break from social media and try to do something without screens.

Source of this article: https://cjgrijnmond.nl/opvoedinformatie/jongeren-verveling

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