In Defense of Boredom

On the Media | Sep 15, 2017

To Brooke, boredom is “a deeply disgusting feeling.” To fill her idle time, she plays Words With Friends religiously. Yet, according to Manoush Zomorodi, host of WNYC's Note to Self, we should actually strive to feel and endure boredom rather than squash it with the endless stimulation of our smartphones.

This counter-intuitive thesis is the subject of her new book, "Bored and Brilliant: How Spacing Out Can Unlock Your Most Productive and Creative Self." In this extended interview, Manoush and Brooke discuss the neuroscience behind daydreaming and why the culture of the internet maybe be holding many of us back.

Be alert for scams. WNYC never asks for nor accepts money for coverage or interviews. Anyone making such a request does not represent WNYC.

Top Stories

Hannah-Jones, NYC schools chancellor set to speak at high-stakes integration town hall

Advice for Navigating Fertility and Growing Your Family

Watch: Test your news knowledge with Brian Lehrer

Previewing the Public Song Project Radio Special; Sarah Blakely-Cartwright's New Novel 'Heavy Cream'

YOU ARE ONLINE