If you’re someone who gets bored easily, you know just how frustrating the experience can be.
That being said, you also probably know that it’s no one else’s job to entertain you 24/7, and it’s up to you to make sure you stay engaged, occupied, and interested in whatever you’re doing. While it can be hard to know what to do with yourself when you’re at a loose end, having some strategies in place to stave off the boredom will serve you well in life. In fact, doing these things might just ensure you never end up bored again.
1. Try a completely new hobby.
If you get bored often, chances are you need fresh challenges. Sticking to the same old activities can feel repetitive, so trying something completely new can bring a sense of excitement. Whether it’s painting, coding, learning an instrument, or baking, picking up a hobby that you’ve never attempted before can keep your mind engaged. The trick is to go for something that genuinely sparks your interest, rather than something you feel you ‘should’ do. You don’t have to be good at it straight away; it’s about the fun of learning. The best hobbies are the ones that make time fly by without you even realising it.
2. Get into podcasts or audiobooks.
If you struggle with boredom, listening to something engaging can be a game-changer. Podcasts cover everything from true crime to history, comedy to self-improvement, so there’s something for every mood. Audiobooks are also a great option if you find it hard to sit and read but still want to dive into a good story. The best part is that you can listen while doing something else — cooking, exercising, or even tidying up. It turns those dull moments into something entertaining, and you might even learn something new without much effort. Finding a few favourite podcasts or books can make downtime feel much more enjoyable.
3. Set yourself a creative challenge.
Source: Unsplash Sometimes boredom comes from not having a purpose, so setting yourself a small creative challenge can make things more exciting. It could be as simple as writing a short story, sketching something every day for a week, or even taking on a DIY project. Creativity doesn’t require perfection; it’s all about having fun with ideas. If you’re not sure where to start, look up creative prompts online or set a random goal, like making a playlist for a specific mood. Giving yourself a challenge makes things more interesting and gives you something to work towards.
4. Try movement-based activities.
Sitting around doing nothing often makes boredom worse, so getting up and moving can help shift your mindset. Whether it’s going for a walk, stretching, dancing, or trying a quick home workout, movement can boost your energy and stop you feeling stuck. Even a short burst of exercise can improve your mood and make you feel more motivated to do something productive. If traditional workouts bore you, try something different like roller-skating, rock climbing, or even trampolining. Physical movement makes a huge difference when boredom hits.
5. Learn something random online.
The internet is packed with interesting things to learn, so why not dive into a topic you know nothing about? From watching short documentaries to taking online courses, there’s always something new to explore. Even just reading about a weird historical event or a scientific discovery can be fascinating. Sites like YouTube, TED Talks, or educational apps offer endless ways to expand your knowledge. The best part is that you don’t have to commit to anything long-term; just spending 10 minutes learning something new can be enough to shake off boredom.
6. Experiment in the kitchen.
Cooking might not be your first thought when you’re bored, but trying out a new recipe can be surprisingly fun. Whether it’s baking something sweet, attempting a dish from another culture, or making your own version of a takeaway favourite, experimenting with food can turn boredom into an enjoyable experience. Even if you’re not a confident cook, there are plenty of simple recipes online that don’t require fancy ingredients. Plus, there’s the bonus of getting to eat something delicious at the end. Turning cooking into a mini project makes it feel more engaging rather than just another task.
7. Have a social reset.
Source: Unsplash Sometimes boredom doesn’t mean you lack things to do; it’s often that you just feel disconnected. Reaching out to a friend, planning a catch-up, or even just sending a quick message can help shake off that feeling of restlessness. Social interaction, even in small doses, can be an instant mood booster. If you’re not in the mood for a long conversation, consider joining an online community or group based on your interests. Engaging with like-minded people can give you fresh ideas, new perspectives, and a sense of connection that stops boredom in its tracks.
8. Plan something to look forward to.
Source: Unsplash Having something to get excited about can instantly make life feel more interesting. It doesn’t have to be a big event — just planning a weekend outing, a day trip, or even a small personal project can break the cycle of boredom. Anticipation itself can be a great source of entertainment. If you find yourself getting bored easily, having a list of things you’d like to do can help. Whether it’s visiting a new café, exploring a different area, or booking an experience you’ve never tried, planning ahead gives you a reason to stay engaged.
9. Organise or redecorate your space.
Source: Unsplash Sometimes boredom comes from feeling uninspired by your surroundings. Switching things up by reorganising your room, rearranging furniture, or adding a few new decorations can make a big difference. It doesn’t have to be a major makeover; just changing small details can freshen up your space. Decluttering can also be weirdly satisfying. Sorting through old clothes, clearing out junk drawers, or making a small space more functional can feel like a productive way to pass the time. Plus, a refreshed environment can make you feel more motivated overall.
10. Play games that challenge your brain.
If you get bored quickly, you probably enjoy a challenge. Brain games like Sudoku, crosswords, or puzzle apps can keep your mind engaged and stop you from feeling restless. There are endless options online, from escape room-style games to trivia quizzes. Even multiplayer games can be a great way to stay entertained, whether it’s board games with friends or online gaming communities. Finding something that keeps your brain working means you’re less likely to get stuck in a cycle of boredom.
11. Create something for fun.
Source: Unsplash Creativity isn’t just about art — it can be anything from making a scrapbook to customising your clothes. If you get bored easily, having a hands-on project can be a great way to keep yourself entertained. Even something as simple as designing a phone wallpaper or trying digital art can be enjoyable. Making things without pressure is key. You don’t need to create a masterpiece; you should just be experimenting and having fun. Letting go of perfectionism can make the process much more enjoyable.
12. Watch something outside your usual genre.
Source: Unsplash It’s easy to fall into a routine of watching the same types of shows or films, but switching things up can make entertainment feel fresh again. If you usually watch comedy, try a thriller. If you always go for reality TV, check out a documentary. A change in genre can make things more exciting. Streaming services have endless choices, but sometimes too many options can lead to decision fatigue. If you’re feeling stuck, pick something at random or ask for recommendations. Exploring new content can open up interests you didn’t even know you had.
13. Try mindfulness or relaxation techniques.
Sometimes boredom is just a sign that you need to slow down and recharge. Practising mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can help you feel more present and less restless. Even something as simple as sitting outside and paying attention to your surroundings can help shift your mindset. Journaling or gratitude lists can also be a great way to reflect and refocus. If you’re feeling unsettled, taking a break from screens and allowing yourself a few moments of quiet can be surprisingly refreshing.
14. Make a list of things you’ve always wanted to do.
Source: Unsplash If you often find yourself bored, having a go-to list of interesting activities can help. Jot down things you’d love to try, whether it’s visiting a new place, learning a skill, or taking on a fun challenge. Having ideas ready means you’ll never be stuck for inspiration. Next time boredom hits, pick something from your list and just go for it. The more spontaneous and varied your activities are, the less likely you are to feel stuck in a rut.
