I don’t know anyone who likes boredom. I know I don’t.
My grandchildren say, “Let’s do something; let’s go somewhere,” when they get a case of the blahs.
But there’s never a lack of things to do. And they don’t have to go anywhere else to do something. The options are endless at home: vacuum the floors, wash a load of clothes, or take Peanut out for a walk.
What about reading a book or playing Scrabble?
Of course, doing these things are boring too. But doing something boring is better than doing nothing. Time neither walks nor flies when you’re doing nothing. Doing nothing when there are boring things that have to be done will bite you later.
I hate when that happens; don’t you? The work pileup. And oh, the pain! Now there’s two or three times the work to do.
Taking an interest to complete humdrum tasks gets them done. Plus, what’s boring can sometimes become enjoyable.
But sometimes it’s not easy to start those tasks that are of interest: exercising, reading, writing, shopping—you name it.
Could the lack of enthusiasm be a case of laziness?
Most things of interest have their challenges. This includes external challenges of space, time, and resources. But many times, it’s the internal challenges of willpower, discipline, and focus we must overcome and manage.
I spent several hours freeing up mental real estate when I started preparing for this blog post. I had to put things like what to cook for dinner and whether to answer social media posts on the shelf for later.
Unfortunately, I can only focus on one task or idea at a time. But whether it’s what to cook or post, every idea isn’t a good one.
I tossed several posting topics before settling on this one.
That’s why everyone needs a wastebasket. Don’t forget yours. Brainstorm and write what you want to do or achieve. Do this and improve your jump shot at the same time. Make some ‘3’ pointers with those lousy ones. Move the wastebasket closer if needed.
Be optimistic and determine if your basket is half empty or half full. And call it a good day.
How we engage our interest is important and can determine results. Don’t glue or weigh yourself down with restrictions. To avoid procrastination, find ways to make the task easier to start.
Here are a few get in the mood suggestions:
Listen to music to help make a smooth start.
Get a cup of coffee to help rev up your engine.
Take a deep breath, exhale, and ‘just do it.’
Chew a piece of gum to get the creative juices flowing.
Avoid distractions.
Recognize the pros of completing the task now. And go for it!
Look at the ceiling (this may or may not be a good idea in the workplace). Help comes from above, not from below.
Creativity and problem solving require time, space, and imagination.
Whether the task is boring or of interest, you can do it. And you can start now.
Be safe.