If boredom comes from a lack of perceived purpose in life, no amount of screen time will cure this, and by avoiding the realisation that this is the problem, we will continue to use these devices in an attempt to fill the void. How do we move away from this and start to embrace boredom? We’ve got some tips.

Reframe boredom

Mann suggests the solution to the ‘boredom’ problem is to harness it rather than avoid it. When Johann Hari, author of Stolen Focus, decided to live screen-free he’d observe the “strange things that started to bubble up into his consciousness”. Often these strange things can be the catalyst for much-needed change in our lives. Eastwood and Danckert urge us to approach this state with optimism and focus on the possible rewards of the different things we could be doing.

Be curious

“The first step is to notice that we are making a choice,” says Sturmer. “A choice to be busy because we are frightened about what will happen if we stop,” Ask yourself what you are feeling: annoyed, fearful, frustrated? What is causing this? We need to tune into our feelings with curiosity rather than judgment. And once we do, we’ll come to understand one fundamental aspect of emotions – that they are constantly in flux.

Make room for boredom

Just as Sturmer recommends some screen-free time each day, Mann reiterates that we should avoid “passive entertainment”, where we simply become consumers, in moments of stillness. Instead, to tap into true boredom, we need to incorporate activities that require little or no concentration but allow us to engage in mind wandering. This might involve sitting with your eyes closed or watching the clouds. Seek opportunities such as waiting rooms and queues – once breeding grounds for boredom – and avoid bringing your phone with you.

How to embrace boredom in a world filled with distractions