How to Cope With Boredom

Let's face it. You're stuck at home, not able to go anywhere or see your friends. You're going to get bored. Sure, with games, social media and various streaming services, you should have something to do all the time. Yet somehow, you still feel bored.

1. Work out why you're feeling bored.
   The obvious answer to this might be that you've not got anything to do. However, boredom can also be caused by listlessness and apathy, common side effects of things like stress, anxiety, lack of sleep, depression or just generally feeling overwhelmed. Take some time to look within and unpack why you're feeling bored. Identifying the root of your boredom will be the key to success in overcoming it!

2. Make a list
   The antidote to boredom is a hit of positive endorphins to the brain. A great way to kickstart this reaction is to make a list with lots of short, easy to complete tasks. Make it a combination of things you actually need to do (like homework and chores) and things you really want to do (like message your friends, workout or watch tv). Once you've made your list, pick the quickest thing on that list and do it straight away. Each time you complete something off your list you'll get a sense of achievement, which will help you feel more positive and uplifted.

3. Do something different
   Often, we can feel bored even when we're doing the things we love, just because we're spending all our time doing it. If you think this might be the case, try and find something to do around the house that you haven't done in ages. Spend an hour or two doing that before allowing yourself to go back to your regular activities. This will help break up your day and let you look forward to your favourite hobbies.

4. Embrace the boredom
   This might sound a bit ridiculous, but being bored can often lead to a spark of creativity, and it's a great exercise for your brain. Try and spend 15 minutes in mindful meditation before you go and do something else. You can try self-led meditation or, if you're not so confident, try looking up some guides on youtube to help you get started.

5. Don't be so hard on yourself
   Often, we struggle to get out of our bored state because we keep procrastinating. This can be due to a sub-conscious fear; fear of starting, fear of finishing or not finishing, even a fear of not being as good as our peers. Remind yourself that everyone does things at their own pace, and your pace is as valid as everyone else's.

Ultimately, it's important to remember that this feeling of boredom will pass. It won't last forever, and you'll be back to normal before you know it. Don't try to fight it, but instead work with it.