Boredom is so common these days that 3 out of 5 people I’ve spoken to experienced it. Of course, there are plenty of reasons for this, including the countless hours most of us pend watching viral trends on TikTok for nothing but our own amusement, but that’s another story. A few days ago, during a casual chat with a friend who shares similar values, we talked about handwriting as a hobby, or keeping a journal, and how much joy and satisfaction it brings us, helping us escape that bubble of boredom. But then I asked myself, can handwriting actually cure boredom? Here is what I found out!
It may sound funny to the unfamiliar, but the simple act of putting pen to paper can do more than just improve your penmanship—it can be an effective way to overcome boredom.
Boredom May Trigger Creativity
Boredom is often misunderstood as a lack of activity, but researchers say quite the contrary, arguing it serves an important psychological function. I tend to agree—boredom isn’t just an empty pause; it’s a space where the mind starts searching for meaning or stimulation. For example, a study published in the Creativity Research Journal (2014) found that individuals who engaged in boring tasks—such as copying numbers or reading dull text—subsequently showed higher levels of creativity in problem-solving exercises. The study concluded that boredom can act as a motivational state that encourages exploration and the generation of new ideas.
Handwriting, especially when used for expressive tasks like journaling or brainstorming, offers a way to leverage that creative energy. It allows thoughts to flow more freely and helps the brain organize ideas in a meaningful way, which is difficult to replicate through typing.
Handwriting Boosts Mindfulness
I often say that handwriting, unlike typing, requires a slower, more intentional pace—one that naturally boost mindfulness. Numerous studies have shown that mindfulness helps reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance overall well-being. So when boredom hits, I highly recommend picking up a pen and writing a few lines. It offers a quiet space for reflection and internal exploration—one you might not even realize you need.
This concept is supported by a study published in Mindfulness (2017), which found that writing by hand increased participants’ focus and helped regulate their emotional state. In this way, writing allows the mind to settle into a calm state, rather than spiraling into anxiety or inertia.
The Cognitive Benefits of Handwriting
Neurological research has shown that handwriting activates multiple areas of the brain associated with thinking, language, and memory. This evidence is supported by a study conducted in 2020 by the University of Tokyo. Apparently, handwriting activates more complex brain activity than typing, especially in children and young adults. And it’s not just for the younger crowd—adults can stay sharp and focused thanks to these benefits as well.
Moreover, handwriting can help people retain information more effectively. A study from Psychological Science (2014) found that students who took handwritten notes during lectures retained more conceptual information than those who typed. Writing your thoughts down helps you process them more deeply—great for clearing the mental fog that boredom can bring.
How To Use Handwriting To Avoid Boredom
You don’t need fancy tools or a writer’s background to fight boredom with handwriting. Here are a few simple (and surprisingly effective) activities anyone can try:
- Journaling – Reflect on your day, your goals, or how you’re feeling. Even writing “I feel bored” can lead to unexpected insights or spark new ideas.
- Creative writing prompts – Write a short story, a poem, or just let your imagination wander freely on the page.
- Gratitude lists – Jot down a few things you’re thankful for. It’s a small habit that can shift your mindset in a big way.
- Doodling and lettering – Sketch out words, play with calligraphy, or just let your pen move freely. It’s fun and it keeps your brain engaged.
- Writing letters – Send a thoughtful note to a friend—or write one just for yourself. You don’t even have to mail it; it’s the act that matters.
In the end, I have to admit that even I find myself dealing with boredom from time to time. It’s hard to avoid. But whenever that feeling creeps in, I know I can always turn to pen and paper. So don’t underestimate the power of these two simple tools—they might just be the key to improving your well-being.
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