Perennial Wisdom Ep. 254: How to Be Bored - An Ancient Guide to Being Where You Are | Perennial Wisdom
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Nov 22, 2025 Dive into the fascinating world of boredom and its powerful insights. Explore ancient philosophies and modern thinkers, revealing how stillness can reveal our true selves. Discover the transformative potential of boredom to spark creativity and highlight what we genuinely desire. From desert traditions to neuroscience, learn how distractions rob us of self-reflection. With practical tips on embracing quiet moments, this discussion uncovers the art of being present and attentive in our fast-paced lives.
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Boredom Reveals Meaning
- Boredom is framed as the moment meaning can begin to reveal itself rather than mere emptiness.
- J.W. Bertolotti argues the desert of boredom strips distractions so the self can appear.
The Desert As A Spiritual Example
- Ancient spiritual traditions used deserts or solitude as places to confront the self and find truth.
- J.W. Bertolotti links Pascal and David Foster Wallace to the desert metaphor for modern boredom.
Stillness Enables Self-Examination
- Stopping and sitting still is essential for self-examination according to Socrates and the Stoics.
- J.W. Bertolotti highlights that tolerating rest is tied to freedom and attention control.
