#42: Daydreams are Born Here: The Surprising Science of Boredom

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When was the last time you let yourself be bored? Really bored?

Growing up, boredom was a normal part of life — long car rides staring out the window, endless summer days of “go outside and play” with no plan, and doodles on scrap paper that turned into wild ideas. Out of those empty spaces came creativity, play, and daydreams.

But somewhere along the way, we started treating stillness like failure. Daydreaming got labeled as “slacking off,” and boredom became something to fill with scrolling, swiping, or busywork. The truth? Neuroscience shows us that boredom and daydreaming are not wasted time — they’re where creativity is born.

In this episode, I’m inviting you to rediscover the beauty of boredom. 

We’ll explore the science behind daydreaming, why your brain is more active when it wanders, and how recovery and rest create the perfect conditions for imagination. 

You’ll also hear what European cultures can teach us about building slowness into daily life — from siestas in Spain to August sabbaticals in Italy.

This isn’t a productivity hack or a rigid 3-step plan. It’s an invitation to give yourself permission to pause — to let boredom breathe again, so your best ideas have a chance to find you.

3 KEY TAKE AWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE:

1️⃣ You’ll feel permission to embrace boredom without guilt and when you do those beautiful daydreams will find you. 

2️⃣ You’ll realize that by not daydreaming you're leaving an important part of your brain untapped. 

3️⃣ You’ll be inspired by European rhythms of rest — and leave with ideas for weaving more ease into your own life.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Ep #41: Embracing Self-Care and Recovery: Fuel Your Dreams and Prevent Burnout

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