The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos How I Stopped Fearing Boredom
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Jun 10, 2024 Jonathan Schooler, a neuroscientist from UC Santa Barbara, joins to tackle the uncomfortable truth about boredom. He reveals how mind-wandering can actually enhance creativity and happiness. Dr. Laurie shares her personal struggles with boredom, but learns to embrace it as a powerful tool for innovation. They discuss how moments of inactivity can lead to profound insights and personal growth, challenging the modern mindset that constantly seeks stimulation. The conversation underscores the transformative potential of accepting boredom in our lives.
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Shared Boredom Aversion
- Dr. Laurie Santos and her mom both strongly dislike boredom.
- As a child, Santos created a song about boredom to cope with it on a train ride.
Boredom's Power
- People will go to great lengths to avoid boredom.
- In a study, participants chose to self-administer electric shocks rather than endure boredom.
Origin of Boredom Research
- Sandy Mann's boredom journey started with a monotonous job at a clothing store.
- The job involved mindlessly unfolding and refolding sweaters.