Chapter 1: A Personal Reflection

I found myself enjoying a sunny afternoon on the balcony with my father, both of us sipping tea while one of his cats lounged on my lap and the other rested next to him. The soothing sounds of a classical rendition of "Nothing Else Matters" by Metallica played in the background, creating a moment of sheer bliss.

At 72, my father had recently married his partner of 15 years, which stirred an unexpected feeling of hopelessness within me as a 31-year-old woman. While he was embarking on this new chapter, I felt stuck in my own quest for companionship. I posed a question to him about why I struggle to find my own partner, echoing my hairdresser's recent inquiry: "What’s wrong with the world?"

His response was both troubling and specific, reflecting something I had frequently heard from others. Yet, it was delivered with care rather than criticism. He expressed that many people find me uninteresting, unable to relate to my hobbies and passions, which they deem dull.

Why would my father say such a thing? Let me clarify: What makes me appear "boring"?

If you skimmed through my biography or did a quick online search, you might discover intriguing facts such as my status as the first female flying car racing pilot, a former drone racing pilot, content creator, solo traveler, and entrepreneur. That sounds thrilling, doesn’t it?

However, beneath these exciting titles lies the reality of extensive work hours. I often find myself toiling for 12 hours a day, and while there are days I only work for 6 hours, I tend to be constantly on the move, rarely settling in one place, always capturing moments with my camera. This is my truth.

For the majority of society, I might indeed come across as unremarkable (though not for everyone!).

Why does my father label me as "boring"?

In many ways, I reflect my father’s interests, which some might also deem dull. My genuine fascination with topics that are often considered tedious is something I share with him. For instance, the classical music I enjoyed in school was often met with disdain by my peers. To me, attending concerts and relishing a string quartet is exhilarating. I’ve faced ridicule for being knowledgeable about classical pieces, both in my youth and as an adult in the workplace.

While I also enjoy rock and metal, I can easily spend hours engrossed in fantasy novels, horror tales, and non-fiction. I maintain a rigorous fitness routine, dedicating two hours a day to the gym and hiking. Writing is another passion of mine—I'm currently working on publishing my fantasy novel.

Theater and museums? Absolutely. History, self-improvement, meditation, and DIY projects? All checked off my list. I actively nurture both my physical and mental well-being, which brings me joy and fulfillment.

Yet, there are additional factors contributing to this perception of me as "boring." Most stem from societal norms regarding what constitutes fun.

I don’t indulge in drinking, avoid pubs, and steer clear of parties. Surprisingly, this alone can make someone seem tedious. If anyone can explain why abstaining from alcohol equates to being boring, I’d love to hear it.

As for Netflix? No thank you. Television? Meh. Shopping? Not really my scene. The beach? Boring. Clubs? Absolutely not.

I understand that many people partake in these activities to unwind, but they simply don’t resonate with me. In fact, I find contemporary society itself rather dull.

Individuals often seem standardized, conforming to what is deemed "normal." I fail to see the excitement in living life through screens or seeking solace in alcohol when there are countless fulfilling activities available. Ironically, those who label me as boring often fail to appreciate the richness of life outside of their screens.

I used to invite friends to join me at classical music events, only to be met with dismissive remarks labeling it as boring. What did they choose instead? You guessed it: Netflix or the pub.

I know many others who share my interests, and their stories often echo mine: "I was a nerd; no one appreciated me in school, and I feel just as lonely now."

Does that resonate with you?

What my father conveyed was that I am an individual with a lengthy list of hobbies and passions in a world where "Netflix, drinking, and gaming" have become the standard. He pointed out that those with genuine interests often face challenges in finding someone who can intellectually stimulate them. In a society glued to their devices, I feel like Don Quixote, fighting an unwinnable battle. I admit, I do become bored with people who cannot engage in meaningful conversations.

My father advised that it is preferable to be content in solitude rather than settle for less or feel frustrated with those who cannot appreciate the beauty of a string quartet.

This led me to ponder: Am I genuinely THAT BORING, or is the world evolving into a homogenized space, where cultural differences fade and uniqueness is lost? Are we sacrificing the beauty of diversity for a more standardized existence?

What are your thoughts on this, and what hobbies do others deem "boring" that you cherish?

Thank you for taking the time to read!

If you enjoy my writing, you might also appreciate:

Chapter 2: Understanding Boredom Through Therapy

In this chapter, we delve deeper into the concept of feeling boring and how it affects our relationships and self-perception.

The first video, "Therapist Reacts: 'I am too boring for other people,'" explores the emotional impact of feeling uninteresting and how it can shape our interactions.

Chapter 3: Signs of Being Perceived as Boring

This chapter will highlight various signs that might indicate you are perceived as boring by others, and how societal norms influence these perceptions.

The second video, "19 Signs You're Actually a Boring Person And Don't Even Know It," sheds light on the subtle cues that might suggest you are considered unexciting by those around you.