Boredom
Friend Or Foe?
Join Rick on the Up and Running Morning Show (98.1 KZE) for a thoughtful Thanksgiving-week conversation with monthly guest Caroline Phipps. In this episode, Caroline explores the surprising rise of boredom despite the constant access to information and entertainment, and offers practical insight into how solitude, reflection, and choice can become powerful tools for creativity and well‑being.
Topics covered include the paradox of being more connected but less inspired, the social psychologist Timothy Wilson’s study showing people would rather electrocute themselves than sit quietly, the differences between childhood and adult responses to boredom, and the dangers of always reacting to external stimulation. Caroline and Rick discuss how overscheduling and instant gratification can create restlessness, and why making time to sit quietly — even briefly — helps people reconnect, spark ideas, and make better choices.
The episode also highlights parenting challenges around “I’m bored,” practical strategies for turning boredom into productive time (from picking up a pen to using drive time for reflection), and the bigger theme that we are our greatest resource — every thought, word, and choice matters. Caroline emphasizes the value of connection, collaboration, and creativity as antidotes to boredom and encourages using quiet moments for inward work and inspired action.
Caroline Phipps appears monthly on the show; listeners can explore archived chats and resources at CarolinePhipps.com. For a chance at a complimentary consultation, Caroline sometimes offers one to a listener; email caroline@carolinephipps.com. Tune in for compassionate guidance on living with inner elegance, practical tips to reduce restlessness, and ideas to make everyday moments more meaningful.
Key Insights and Conclusions
Boredom is paradoxically rising despite unprecedented access to information and entertainment.
Meaningful human connection and creativity are crucial antidotes to boredom, more so than instant digital gratification.
Avoidance of introspection contributes to restlessness and poor decision-making during boredom.
Quiet, unstructured time fosters creativity, self-awareness, and constructive choices.
Recognizing one’s own inner resources and the power of choice is vital for overcoming boredom and enhancing life quality.
Communication and interaction carry significant power in shaping personal and collective well-being.
Study AspectDetailsResearcherTimothy WilsonPublished InScience magazine, July 2014
Recommendations from the Discussion
Embrace moments of boredom and quiet to connect with oneself.
Use boredom as a tool to generate creativity and solve problems.
Resist the urge for constant digital distractions and instant gratification.
Recognize the power of choice in shaping experiences and relationships.
Foster meaningful human connections to enrich life and combat restlessness.
Explore holistic health resources, such as those offered by Caroline Phipps, for guidance on Living With Inner Elegance.
Caroline Phipps
www.carolinephipps.com