“How’s it going?” “Busy!” “How was your day?” “Great, super productive.” Sound familiar?
Our culture has not only normalized busyness, it’s encouraged! If you’re not busy, you must be lazy. And so, our schedules are packed, not just with physical tasks, but with digital distractions—endless scrolling on our phones, streaming TV shows, and responding to notifications. We have been conditioned to fill every moment with something, often leaving little room for just “being”.
When was the last time you simply spent time with yourself, doing “nothing”? Intentional time to be fully present, without distractions, is becoming a rare experience. Yet, in this stillness, there is profound power.
The Constant Noise of Modern Life
We’ve become so accustomed to constant engagement that the idea of doing nothing feels almost uncomfortable. We pull out our phones without even thinking about it—it’s become a reflexive response to any moment of stillness. In elevators, waiting rooms, or even during brief pauses in conversation, we often reach for a screen. This habit speaks volumes about our relationship with time and ourselves. We’ve come to associate busyness with productivity and worth, but what are we losing in the process?
The relentless pace of modern life can prevent us from engaging with our inner selves. Our minds, constantly bombarded with information and stimulation, rarely have the chance to rest, reflect, or simply “be”. Yet, magical things happen in stillness. It is in these quiet moments that ideas are born, traumas can begin to heal, bodies find rest, and we reconnect with our true nature as human “beings”, not just human “doings”.
The Power of Doing Nothing
It may sound counterintuitive, but there is incredible value in boredom and stillness. When we allow ourselves to be bored—when we create space to do nothing—we open up the possibility for deeper connection with ourselves and the world around us. Embracing stillness and boredom can be transformative:
1. Creativity Flourishes: In moments of stillness, without external input, our minds begin to wander and explore new ideas. Many great innovations and creative breakthroughs have been born from moments of boredom. When the mind is not occupied with endless stimulation, it can play, dream, and generate fresh ideas.
2. Inner Healing and Reflection: Stillness provides a space for introspection. It allows us to sit with our thoughts, emotions, and experiences without distraction. This can be especially important for processing past traumas or difficult emotions that we’ve pushed aside in the busyness of everyday life. In these quiet moments, we can begin to heal and find peace.
3. Rest and Rejuvenation: Our bodies and minds need rest to function optimally. Constant activity, whether physical or mental, can lead to burnout and stress. Intentional stillness allows for deep rest and rejuvenation, restoring our energy levels and helping us feel more balanced.
4. Being Fully Present: Stillness teaches us the art of presence—being fully in the moment, without rushing to the next task or distraction. It helps us appreciate the beauty in the simple things, like a quiet walk in nature, the warmth of sunlight on our skin, or the sound of our own breath.
Creating Intentional Time for Stillness
To harness the power of stillness and boredom, we must be intentional about carving out time for it in our lives. How can we create more space for ourselves?
1. Schedule “Nothing” Time: Just as you would schedule meetings or workouts, set aside time in your day for doing nothing. This could be as simple as a 10-minute break where you sit quietly with no agenda. I’ve found that the first thing in the morning is the best time for me. I get up half an hour earlier than the family and have this time all to myself.
2. Practice Mindfulness or Meditation: Engage in practices that cultivate stillness, such as mindfulness or meditation. These practices help quiet the mind and bring attention to the present moment. Even a few minutes a day can make a significant difference. Don’t know where to start? Apps like Insight Timer have great (and free) versions with many short tracks on offer.
3. Disconnect from Devices: Challenge yourself to spend some time each day away from screens. Consider a digital detox for a few hours, or even a full day, to reconnect with yourself without digital distractions.
4. Embrace Nature: Spend time outdoors, allowing yourself to be present with the natural world. Whether it’s a walk in the park, sitting by a river, or just enjoying your backyard, nature can be a powerful source of stillness and reflection.
5. Allow for Boredom: Let yourself be bored. Resist the urge to immediately fill any idle moment with activity or distraction. Notice how it feels and what comes up for you. Use this as an opportunity to explore your inner landscape.
6. Cultivate a Practice of Gratitude: Practicing gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to what we already possess, fostering a sense of contentment and abundance. When we regularly cultivate gratitude, we become more aware of the small joys in our everyday lives, helping us to feel more grounded and fulfilled.
Becoming Human Beings, Not Just Human Doings
By embracing the power of stillness and the impact of boredom, we can transform our relationship with ourselves and the world around us. We can learn to be comfortable in our own company, find peace in the present moment, and allow our true selves to emerge. In these moments of stillness, we reconnect with the essence of being human. We remember that life is not just about doing and achieving but also about “being”—fully alive, fully present, and fully ourselves. Let’s create more space for stillness in our lives and discover the magic that lies within.
