A study by Psychological Science suggests that people who have something to do, even if the task itself is meaningless, are happier than those who remain idle.
Boredom is an an unpleasant feeling which most people try to avoid. It can make you feel tired, restless, and downright depressed. Staying busy not only saves you from the agony of boredom, it can also make you feel happier.
Most people who work claim to do so to make money, gain notoriety, or further scientific research, but there is perhaps a deeper reason for people’s desire to stay active: it makes them feel good.
People constantly seek out activities and entertainment simply for the sake of keeping themselves busy. We go to see movies and visit friends, we work on proposals and go clothes shopping, and we bake cookies. We feel our best when we are using our excess energy to get something done, even if it is something as simple as reading a book or making a cup of coffee.
People who sit around, staring at the wall in their free time experience lower levels of happiness and overall satisfaction with their lives than those who engage in mental and physical activities, such as work or exercise.
Studies have shown that a task doesn’t even need to have any significant purpose for the person engaging in it to feel happier. Research shows that people are happier when performing tasks, even if the tasks prove to be completely pointless.
However, people like to be able to justify spending their time and energy on something. Therefore, most people need to have a reason to do something, no matter how small or insignificant.
So read a book, go for a jog, or clean your closet, you will be happier you did!
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