OPINION: 16 hours on a train doing nothing

Or was it nothing? I have been speaking quite a bit about boredom at work, and “borout”. But, how can we see boredom in a positive light?

We've all been there: stuck in a meeting, waiting for a train, or standing in line at the supermarket, with nothing to do but stare into space. Boredom is often seen as a negative state of mind, but it can actually be a powerful tool for creativity and innovation.

When we're bored, our minds are free to wander, and we're not constrained by the demands of our work or daily routine. This mental freedom can lead to new ideas and fresh perspectives on old problems.

In fact, many great thinkers and artists have spoken about the role of boredom in their creative process. For example, Albert Einstein once said, "I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious," and it's this curiosity that can be sparked by moments of boredom.

Being bored all the time is not a recipe for success. But if we can embrace moments of boredom and use them as opportunities for creative thinking, we may find that our work and our lives become more fulfilling and interesting.

So next time you find yourself bored, resist the temptation to reach for your phone or switch on the TV. Instead, take a deep breath and allow yourself to wander. You never know where your mind might take you.