What bores you?
The Struggle of Staying Engaged
I don’t get bored easily, but there’s one thing that never fails to make my mind drift: a monotone voice.
It doesn’t matter what the subject is—if someone speaks in a dull, flat tone with no emotion or energy, I mentally check out. It’s like taking Benadryl. I physically cannot stay awake.
I first noticed this in college, sitting in a lecture hall while my professor droned on about mathematical concepts I already struggled to grasp. His voice was so monotone, so unengaging that it felt impossible to focus. It wasn’t just boring—it was like my brain refused to process the information.
The same thing happened in history class. I’ve never been a fan of history, especially when it’s reduced to just dates, places, and events. When the professor simply recited facts in a lifeless tone, my mind wandered, and I found myself daydreaming or fighting sleep.
But then, I had a completely different experience—one that made me realize that maybe history isn’t boring after all.
What Makes Something Engaging?
One day, I was sitting in a history lecture about Native American history. Normally, history wasn’t my thing, but something about this lecture captivated me.
The difference?
• The professor was Native American. He wasn’t just presenting facts—he was sharing a lived experience.
• It was more than just history. It was about real people, real struggles, and real consequences that still exist today.
• It made me feel something. Instead of tuning out, I felt connected to the story. It wasn’t just a lecture; it was a window into someone’s reality.
I realized that I don’t actually hate history. What I hate is lifeless presentations of history. When someone tells a story with passion, personal connection, or relevance, I am completely engaged.
Energy Is Contagious
Another thing that keeps me engaged? Energy.
I have a coworker who is naturally high-energy. She talks like she’s had five cups of coffee, and everything she says is exciting. I don’t think I could ever be like that—I tend to take things in quietly and process them internally. But when I’m around people like her, I feed off their energy.
That’s why I love when speakers, lecturers, or even casual storytellers bring a sense of enthusiasm. It doesn’t have to be over-the-top, but if they are excited about what they’re saying, I feel more excited to listen.
On the flip side, if a speaker seems like they’re just going through the motions, the audience picks up on it. If they don’t care, why should I?
That’s why humor, storytelling, and passion completely transform an experience for me.
How This Shapes the Way I Learn
Knowing this about myself has completely changed how I seek out information and experiences.
1. I actively avoid monotone, unengaging speakers whenever possible.
2. I gravitate toward people who bring energy, humor, or storytelling into their presentations.
3. If something doesn’t immediately interest me, I look for a way to make it engaging.
Because ultimately, it’s not just about what’s being taught. It’s about how it’s being taught.
Final Thoughts: The Power of Engagement
I’ve learned that I’m not just drawn to knowledge—I’m drawn to enthusiasm.
If someone is passionate about what they’re talking about, I’m way more likely to be engaged. If they inject humor, real-life stories, or energy, I actually retain what they say.
But if they’re just reciting facts in a monotone voice?
Let’s just say, I hope they don’t take it personally if I start dozing off.
© 2025 Amelie Chambord
Soul Path Insights 
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