When was the last time you were bored? I mean bored to your core. If you’re like me with a packed schedule and a never ending to do list, you may have to think about this question for a long time. Alas, I struggle to even remember the sensation of boredom.
When our kids were young and restless with energy, these were the times we would turn off television and technology and send them outside. It was during these times we would hear the whine “I’m bored…” Yet, we were persistent in having them breathe in the fresh crisp air and explore the surrounding nature.
The scenario seemed to always start the same way; three kids walking aimlessly around the driveway, swinging a stick through the air, or gathering leaves. It was only when they reached the depth of boredom, something brilliant would spark.
It was because of this boredom; they began to think differently. They transformed from bored individuals into a creative team: build a secret fort, invent a new game, or search for an adventure. They forgot about the boredom and played with unbridled abandon.
What would happen if we allowed ourselves to become bored? This would mean we would have to stop filling each moment of our day. We would have to shut down every screen screaming for our continual attention. We would have to resist checking off the next item on our list. We would have to take pause, in our actions and our thoughts, and get to a mental state of boredom. Would we then spark something brilliant?
Perhaps if we allow ourselves the opportunity to remove distractions, we too can begin to think differently, transform our creativity. We could build a secret fort, create a new game, or search for an adventure… we could play with unbridled abandon.
Brilliance can spark from boredom. I have seen it with my own eyes. Yet, as I alluded to earlier, rarely do I give myself the opportunity to be bored. I think it’s time for me to walk aimlessly outside while swinging a stick in the air or gathering leaves. I could use a spark of brilliance…
KerryOn Questions
- When was the last time you experienced the depth of boredom?
- How can you reduce everyday distractions to think differently?
- What are ways you spark brilliance?
The Kerry behind KerryOn
My name is Kerry K. Fierke, Ed.D. (pron. Fear-Key) I have a unique combination of skills and experience – decades of fast-paced corporate experience in Fortune 100 companies and large health care organizations, combined with the academic rigor of a highly ranked research university. My focus is supporting others to create their own path to leadership development, lifelong learning, and a unique leadership legacy. Take a moment to focus on leadership, then KerryOn!
To see all KerryOn's and other leadership stuff, visit www.kerrykfierke.com.
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