Overcoming boredom is something that needs a solution that looks at the actual cause of emotion. Simple solutions can be applied in a lot of situations. Take for example the unhappy bored check out girl, the solution is simple, she should look for a different job that challenges her more. Boredom can also occur in leisure time. In cases like this an individual should look at new hobbies or interests that can enrich and change their environment.

A more philosophical approach to alleviating boredom is to examine and understand oneself rather than looking towards external activities and stimuli to change how we feel. Many eastern religions base a lot of their time on meditation and when questioning these individuals boredom does not seem to be an issue despite lack of movement or stimulus for many hours at a time. In mindfulness training subjects are taught to slow down, focus on their breathing and bodily feelings, and let thoughts pass freely without judgment.

Finding ways to alleviate boredom can also cure more illnesses. Studies have shown many people turn to drugs and alcohol as a way to escape the boredom in their lives. By rechanneling that energy that is going towards destructive behavior into a more positive stimulus then addictions can be overcome. It is clear that boredom is a symptom of modern day society and the future in its rapid development of technologies to make our lives easier and more comfortable will most likely increase boredom levels in a population. However boredom can also be a catalyst for change in an individual’s life and as long as it is recognised for what it is and the negative effects are overpowered then it has the potential to become a positive force in motivating us all.