I read somewhere once that “A bored dog is a destructive dog.” This was in the context of dog training, but the phrase has stuck with me.
I talk about the concept of stimulation a lot with my clients, especially if they have ADHD. This is an aspect of well-being that doesn’t get discussed very often in the neurotypical world.
We all need different levels of stimulation throughout our days. When we are over-stimulated, we get frazzled and overwhelmed. If we’re under-stimulated, we might feel restless or lethargic. Either way, it’s hard to think clearly. Being appropriately stimulated help us stay motivated, engaged, and present.
(There’s also the matter of getting the right types of sensory, emotional, or mental inputs. But maybe a topic for another newsletter.)
While under-stimulation goes beyond mere boredom, I think the analogy holds. Bored dogs find ways to entertain themselves, whether it’s by digging holes in the backyard or chewing up the furniture. Under-stimulated humans do the same, except we doomscroll, turn to substances, or cause trouble in other ways. We might start to ruminate, our minds starting to chew on itself.
So the next time you find yourself feeling antsy or turning to bad habits, check in with yourself - are you bored? If so, is there a better chew toy you can gnaw on? Whether it’s going for a workout or planning your next vacation, it can be helpful to funnel that excess energy elsewhere. Making friends with that bored dog in your brain is a lot more effective than ignoring it.
Take care,
Naomi
Announcements/Resources:
My caseload is currently full and I am not accepting new clients.
Some recent delights:
I was staying with friends in Portland and got to hang out with their adorable pup Toby (pictured above).
I took myself out on a nice little date to Canard, which ended up being one of my favorite meals of the trip. The duck frites were phenomenal!
My mom and I road tripped our way down the Oregon/California coast. Highlights included trail-running in Jedediah Smith Redwoods and stargazing in Humboldt. What a life.