Do you ever find yourself staring into space, feeling that all-too-familiar wave of boredom washing over you? Boredom can strike at any time, leaving you feeling listless and uninspired. But before you succumb to the ennui, consider this simple yet effective therapy hack: the boredom check-in.

Therapist Catharine Swain, LMFT, suggests that when boredom rears its head, it’s an opportunity to gain clarity about what might be triggering those “meh” feelings. By doing a boredom check-in, you can unearth the root causes and, in turn, discover how to combat it.

Understanding the Boredom Check-In

So, what exactly is a boredom check-in, and how can it help you overcome this all-too-common feeling of restlessness? According to Swain, it’s all about asking yourself why you’re feeling bored. This simple act of self-reflection can provide valuable insights into the sources of your boredom.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Notice the Boredom: The first step is to become aware of when boredom starts to creep in. It could be during a monotonous workday, while spending time with your partner, or even when you’re alone at home with nothing to do.
2. Question Your Feelings: Once you’ve identified that you’re feeling bored, take a moment to ask yourself why you think that is. Is it the repetitive tasks at work that are causing your boredom? Is it a lack of excitement in your relationship? Or do you simply feel uninspired when you’re alone?
3. Document Your Thoughts: To gain better clarity, consider recording your thoughts in a voice memo or jotting them down in a journal when the feelings of boredom arise. This simple act can help you process your emotions and thoughts in the moment.
4. Identify Patterns: After practicing this boredom check-in for a few weeks, take some time to review your notes or listen to your voice memos. Look for patterns and recurring themes in your feelings of boredom. Are there specific situations or circumstances that trigger it more often than others?

The Power of Self-Discovery

The real magic of the boredom check-in lies in the self-discovery that follows. By analyzing the patterns you’ve identified, you can gain a deeper understanding of the root causes of your boredom. This self-awareness is the first step toward finding solutions and making positive changes in your life.

For example, if you discover that you frequently experience boredom at work, it may be time to explore new projects, seek additional responsibilities, or consider a career change. If your boredom seems linked to your relationship, open and honest communication with your partner could be the key to reigniting the spark. And if you often find yourself bored when alone, you can use this awareness to proactively plan activities or hobbies that excite you.

Conclusion

Boredom is a universal human experience, but it doesn’t have to be a perpetual state of mind. By incorporating the boredom check-in into your daily routine, you can transform those moments of restlessness into opportunities for self-reflection and growth. Understanding the underlying causes of your boredom empowers you to take meaningful action to address and overcome it.

So, the next time you feel that all-too-familiar sense of boredom creeping in, take a pause and ask yourself why. It’s a small yet powerful step that can lead to a more fulfilling and engaging life. Embrace the therapy hack of the boredom check-in, and you may just find yourself on a journey of self-discovery and revitalization.