You Need to Be Bored. Heres Why. @harvardbusinessreview
You Need to Be Bored. Heres Why.  @harvardbusinessreview
Uploaded August 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago
Boredom isn’t a bug—it’s a feature. Harvard professor Arthur C. Brooks explains why boredom unlocks creativity, activates a powerful brain network, and might even protect you from depression. Learn how the mind wanders—and why that’s a very good thing.

For more insights on leadership, success, and workplace well-being, explore Arthur's new book, "The Happiness Files", a curated selection of essays from his popular column in The Atlantic: amazon.com/dp/B0F4MFQ6VN

You can also sign up to receive Arthur’s new six-week newsletter, “The Leader’s Happiness Reset.” It includes excerpts from his new book along with insights and guidance on how to find happiness at work, for yourself and for your team: hbr.org/email-newsletters.

More by Arthur Brooks: arthurbrooks.com

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You Need to Be Bored. Here's Why.

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