PRIVILEGE OF A FREE MIND

 

In the modern era, we feel a constant compulsion to fill every gap of our free time with productive and purposeful activities. What we fail to understand is the importance of the thinking time boredom provides us with, and how meaningful and insightful that is. Unfortunately, we tend to utilize this time ineffectively by clinging to our smartphones whenever we get the chance, the usage of which claims to be a privilege and a means to connect with the world around you, when in reality, it is time to think and ponder what we are deprived of.

Boredom teaches us to value and truly understand the essence of time, it is crucial to utilize this time to think, alone and in peace. Especially in the modern world, with our day-to-day lives bustling with strenuous activities and a rollercoaster of emotions, a time to simply ponder and observe is a luxury. It is thus an ideal antidote to boredom. It is an opportunity to discover the world around you as well as your own views, aspirations and judgements.

As teenagers the idea of thinking about does not exactly seem appealing, but it is a state of mind our brain secretly craves. Adolescence is packed with new realities that we are forced to endorse, but the lack of time to embrace and truly understand them. A growing mind evidently finds the little pleasures of life, mostly from smartphone usage, distracting. In such circumstances, quietly observing the world around you and looking beyond trends, forced friendships and popularity is a necessity. It helps us look at the bigger picture and develop a clarity of purpose. As a student, this personally serves as an escape from the consistent stress, exhaustion and procrastination that comes with academic challenges. As part of a different age group or occupation, you may relate to this differently, but throughout life there is a constant need to learn, adapt and accept changing the world.

The privilege of a free mind is an opportunity to engage in meaningful thoughts and ideas. Thinking about nothing teaches you about the world better than anyone else could. It is the use of time we should choose to indulge in, strengthen our personality and modify our mindset.

Fatima Shafique Malik X OG1