Boredom feels unpleasant, but that may be the point. Psychologist Dr. Erin Westgate joins us to explain why boredom is a signal rather than a flaw, how meaning and attention shape it, and what it can teach us about work, burnout, and living a psychologically rich life.
Topics
[0:00] Intro and Speed Round with Erin Westgate
[8:05] Do we think for pleasure?
[13:11] Why men would rather shock themselves than be bored
[15:50] The MAC model
[25:23] Is boredom useful?
[29:07] Enjoyable vs. interesting experiences
[31:51] Can a boring life still be a good life?
[39:58] Boredom and burnout at work
[49:39] Is boredom good or bad?
[52:38] Designing better environments for bored people
[58:31] Desert island music
[1:02:17] Grooving Session: Boredom and meaning in life
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Links
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A Psychologically Rich Life: Beyond Happiness and Meaning
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Musical Links
Patty Scialfa - Rumble Doll
Beethoven - Symphony No.7 in A major op.92 - II, Allegretto