The Idle Mind 

I spent a lot of time in my early 20’s focusing on the day to day activities. I had check lists and task lists and when everything fell apart because I didn’t get to Costco on Saturday or I didn’t mop the floors on Tuesday – I started to fall apart. While I filled my days with “busy” work I wasn’t filling myself with rewarding work. It wasn’t until I realized that I needed to challenge myself with rewarding activities that my life began to change – and my Costco membership got cancelled. 

Ever heard the phrase “the idle mind is the devil’s playground”? Our minds love to wander and our uncontrolled thoughts can quickly turn into a snowball of anxiety and chaos.  Unfortunately as evolved as we like to think we are – our brains are constantly looking for threats which can enter us into a constant state survival which can quickly lead to a snowball effect of anxiety – if we let it.

Now obviously some mental health conditions can be managed differently than others, so I’m going to speak specifically based on my own experience. Evidently, everyone needs varying levels of support, care, and strategies to maintain their mental well-being, and what works for one person might not work for another. For me, engaging in hobbies and adventures has been a crucial way to stay mentally and physically balanced, but I understand that other people may benefit from therapy, medication, or other forms of support, which are equally valid and important paths to well-being.

Anyways – Let’s strip away the religious connotations of that statement for a second. What does this really mean in the context of our daily lives? It’s simple: when we’re bored or stagnant, our minds can easily wander into unhealthy places.

Staying busy isn’t just about passing the time—it’s about staying mentally and physically healthy. In fact, filling our lives with hobbies, adventures, and the occasional heart-pounding challenge is the key to keeping the “devil” of anxiety and overthinking at bay.

Boredom and Mental Health

Boredom sounds harmless, right? Just sitting around with nothing to do. But studies show that idle time is more dangerous than we think. When our minds aren’t engaged, they tend to drift toward negative thoughts, anxieties, and even depression. Ever notice how, when you’re bored, you suddenly start overthinking? Yeah, that’s your idle mind playing tricks on you.

In fact, research reveals that chronic boredom can increase feelings of dissatisfaction, and in some cases, lead to destructive habits. When we’re not mentally engaged, we crave stimulation, and if we don’t get it from something healthy, like hobbies, we might turn to unproductive or harmful habits.

Why Hobbies Are Essential for Mental and Physical Health

Hobbies aren’t just a way to kill time—they’re a lifeline for our mental health. Whether it’s knitting, mountain biking, or painting, engaging in something you love offers a break from the stressors of everyday life. It allows your brain to focus on something positive, boosting creativity and reducing anxiety.

And let’s not forget physical activities. If you’ve ever tried a new adventure sport—hiking, surfing, or even a simple yoga class—you know the thrill of pushing your body and mind in ways that feel rewarding. These activities don’t just make you physically stronger; they enhance mental resilience too.

Here’s the magic: when you’re fully immersed in an activity you enjoy, your brain enters a flow state. This is where creativity thrives, stress vanishes, and you’re completely in the moment. That’s why people often say hobbies “save” them from overthinking.

Leaning Into Fear: The Secret to Growth

Fear gets a bad rap. We often see it as something to avoid, but in reality, leaning into fear is where the magic happens. Trying something new—whether it’s an adventure sport or a hobby you’ve always wanted to pick up—can be intimidating. But here’s the thing: fear is a sign of growth.

The very act of pushing through that fear, even just a little, gives you a massive sense of accomplishment and confidence. You don’t have to dive into skydiving right away, but taking up a new hobby or adventure, like learning to mountain bike or trying rock climbing, can have huge benefits for your mental health.

For me, stepping outside my comfort zone has been the best way to beat boredom. It’s helped me discover new strengths, face my fears, and stay mentally sharp. Plus, there’s no better way to show the idle mind who’s boss.

How to Get Started: Find Your Next Adventure

If you’re ready to break the cycle of an idle mind, here’s how you can get started:

1. Identify Your Interests: What are you curious about? Hobbies don’t have to be grand—anything from photography to hiking can get the ball rolling.
2. Try Something New: Lean into a little bit of fear. Sign up for that dance class or get on a mountain bike for the first time. The rewards will outweigh the nerves.
3. Stay Consistent: Keep showing up for yourself. The more you engage with your hobbies, the better your mental and physical health will be.

Conclusion:
An idle mind really is the devil’s playground—but only if you let it be. By filling your time with meaningful hobbies and pushing yourself to explore new adventures, you’ll keep your mind sharp, your body active, and your mental health in check. So, what’s stopping you from stepping outside your comfort zone?