A recent commentary on NPR pointed out that, today, there is little chance for anyone to be bored. Our time is constantly filled with electronic games, texts, even movies and TV shows which can be downloaded onto devices small enough to carry in our hand or pocket. Back before cell phones, iPads, or computers, there were times when people actually had nothing to do. Now, if you're standing in line waiting for a table, waiting for the store to open, or even on hold on the phone, there is always a distraction waiting to be accessed. We no longer have to be bored.The commentator's point was that we are missing out on the times when our imaginations were allowed to soar, or when we could dream of what might be, or even develop a plan for the future. According to her, this is where our minds went when we were bored. Now, there is a lack of daydreaming, perhaps of creativity. She believes we need these times of boredom to dream, and dream big.
If that is the case, then I have always wasted my time. Since about the age of 6, I have never gone anywhere without a book. If I had to wait for an appointment, my book was there. If someone ran an errand and left me in the car, I had a book to read. Even when I was put on hold, or during TV commercials, I had a book in front of me. Now I have to wonder just how imaginative I could have been if I had put the book down and filled the empty time with daydreaming. Would I already have had that novel published?
Do I still have time to learn this art of daydreaming?
Knowledge is the seed of "Dreams." The richer your knowledge the fuller your dreams. I find 10 minute breaks of self meditation...a walk, exercise very helpful to the creative juices.
ReplyDeleteYou are right, and I am trying to take more walks, sit quietly and watch the sun set, and even just think. As long as my book is nearby, I'm good.
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