Entrepreneurs and Boredom

Hi Creators!

I read this quote below over at Tim Ferriss’s Blog:

3) Boredom is failure. In a first-world economy where we have the physical necessities covered with even low-class income, Maslow’s hierarchy of needs drives us to need more for any measure of comparative “success.” Lack of intellectual stimulation, not superlative material wealth, is what drives us to depression and emotional bankruptcy. Generalizing and experimenting prevents this, while over-specialization guarantees it.

I loved Tim’s point because he totally pinpoints why true entrepreneurs always have that itch under their skin to “create” something more–something new all the time. I remember having a conversation with a co-worker back in 1999 when I worked as a Systems Analyst at Verizon Wireless and I had a copy of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs posted on the cubicle wall in my office and he blurted out–”that is why I am not happy–my need for self-actualization isn’t being met at this job!” Many people feel that way because most JOBS aren’t there to meet our needs are they.

I know I love being an entrepreneur because I am in charge of meeting my own needs. I make sure I focus on those self-actualization needs–creativity, spontaneity, problem solving and so on. I teach this at the AWE (http://www.aweconnect.com) to entrepreneurs often when I tell them “I believe everyone needs to create or a part of them will die”. I know it is dramatic but I know it is true.

One of my favorite authors, Sarah Ban Breathnach, also approaches the consequences of boredom from another angle in her book, Something More. She recommends you dig deep and excavate your authentic self to meet your unmet needs.

I agree, boredom is failure and sometimes it leads to the death of dreams and even souls.

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