Bored and Brilliant: How Spacing Out Can Unlock Your Most Productive and Creative Self by Manoush Zomorodi

Written by Leigh Martinuzzi

I am not sure after reading this book I am more brilliant or not. Perhaps that isn’t the purpose. It may be to open our eyes to how cluttered, busy and unnecessary our lives have become. In this book by Manoush Zomorodi, she takes the reader on a journey to unplug and disconnect from our digital lives. How to find greater productivity, creativity and original thought in boredom. It makes perfect sense although I am not sure I was entirely captivated.

Manoush Zomorodi is the host and managing editor of the podcast Note to Self. Produced by WNYC studios, in the show, Manoush encourages the listener to question everything in an attempt to preserve anything. Not a podcast I have listened to yet, but certainly sounds of interest. I dare say that the book is an extension of her work, wondering how we can uphold humanity in a digital age.

Backed by cognitive psychology and neuroscience Manoush highlights how by switching off we can allow our brain to rest, wonder and explore the real richness of life. In doing so, we can escape the culturally accepted “hustle” in favour of improved clarity, purpose and meaning. Showing us methods as to how Manoush hopes it will help others enhance their personal and professional lives.

While reading this book, I struggled to stay focused. To be honest, I didn’t read it front to back with great enthusiasm or detail. I got bored! In fairness to Manoush and the research she shares, it was more likely my fault, the reader, then the content itself. A friendly reminder that there as too much going on in my life to enjoy the simple pleasures of reading and learning. My review is therefore tarnished slightly by my own busyness and unwanted chaos.

The opening chapters got my attention. Most books do this well. To hold the reader in the body of the text is the ultimate challenge. The first few chapters intrigued me. She starts in section one by explaining what the idea of boredom is about. Then in the next chapter presents the crux of the book – Digital Overwhelm. From there it meanders through studies back up why and how we need to find time for boredom by disallowing digital control of our lives.

It is true, we are all so obsessed with tech it’s rare to have a moment of silence. In the history of humanity, digital overwhelm is entirely a recent phenomenon however the subject is not one we are unfamiliar with. Most of us are hooked and aware of this, and we are surrounded by research, idea, thought leaders, and other spiritual folks who are trying to help us escape this addiction. For example, look at the take up of meditation globally, everyone knows someone who actively practices some form of it. And the purpose is to find peace in silence.

In my experience, I don’t suggest mindfulness and meditation is the same as boredom. I think there is great joy in watching thoughts and trying to see them pass. Boredom is a lacking interest or becoming impatient in one’s activities. How many of us can relate to that? I say if it’s not of interest, entertaining or more importantly, purposeful we should stop doing it.

However, I think what the author is trying to say is that rather than seeing boredom as an annoyance, try to find the beauty in the experience. Statistics suggest that 85% of the workforce is disengaged with their work. It means either they need to get another job, pursue their passions, or suck it up! Instead of disengaging and engaging with the digital solace, we could best find comfort in boredom. Pleasure at being alone in thought, space and time.

Whatever the case the facts appear to indicate that we are digital slaves. Recent figures suggesting that we are spending up to five hours on our phones every day. Now, I am no guru or scholar, but I know by avoiding that device I have found myself entering into higher states of flow, mindfulness and peace. I believe if we want to uphold the fundamental human needs such as growth, health and relationships we must disconnect.

If you feel you struggle with digital sabotage, the notion that tech controls you and not the other way around then you may just benefit from reading this work by Manoush Zomorodi. If you’ve already learnt the art of switching off, then good for you! We need more people like you, like Manoush, leading the way.

If this book sounds of interest you can purchase Bored and Brilliant: How Spacing Out Can Unlock Your Most Productive and Creative Self here.

Please leave your thoughts, comments & questions below.

Peace, passion and purpose…

Other books that you may enjoy.

. .

Further Reading and Resources 

TED Talks: Ideas worth spreading

Psychology Today: Psychology Today is devoted exclusively to everybody’s favourite subject – Ourselves

Life Hack: Tips for Life

Elite Daily: The Voice of Generation Y

Four Hour Work Week: How to escape the 9-5, live anywhere and join the new rich.

The Minimalists: How to pursue a minimalist lifestyle and be happier.

Mind Hacks: Tips and Tricks for Using Your Brain

Rich Roll: Plantpowered Wellness Advocate

The Art of Charm: Build confidence, feel comfortable and networking differently.

American Psychological Association: The largest scientific and professional organization of psychologists in the United State

The Art of Manliness: Encouraging men to be better husbands, fathers, brothers, citizens.

Tiny Buddha: Simple wisdom for complex lives.

Brain Pickings: An inventory of cross-disciplinary interestingness, spanning art, science, design, history, philosophy, and more.

Mind Body Green: Lifestyle media brand dedicated to inspiring you to live your best life.

Zen Habits: Find simplicity and mindfulness in life.

Creative NonFiction: “true stories well told.” 

Addicted 2 Success: Motivation & Inspiration Website full of quotes and inspiring articles for entrepreneurs.

Barking Up the Wrong Tree: science-based answers and expert insight on how to be awesome at life.

The Positivity Blog: Practical articles on happiness, self-esteem, productivity and social skills.