The urban dictionary defines doodles as “random, thoughtless drawings on whatever topics happen to be flowing through the artists’ heads.” People doodle all the time, especially students in school. But why do they draw when they should pay attention to the presented material? There are several reasons, but the two main reasons for these silly little drawings are boredom and to relieve stress/express one’s emotions.

Boredom is one of, if not the most significant, reasons people doodle. Whether they’re bored at work, school, or just in general, doodling is a great way to eliminate that boredom by working one’s mind and hands. This impulsive drawing can come from being bored due to being ahead or simply not worrying about the work. When someone is bored, so is their mind; when one’s mind is bored, it seeks stimulation in any way it can. The mind’s search for tasks is most easily gained by things that are quick and easily accessible, such as doodling. 

Now even though doodles are random, simple drawings they are a great way to eliminate boredom through their simplicity. Since all doodling requires is something to draw with and something to draw on, they can be done virtually anywhere, making them incredible solutions to boredom. The minimal amount of required materials and infinitely creative possibilities allow one to provide their body and brain with the dopamine and work needed to kick into gear and unbore themselves.

While doodles are great for solving boredom, they aren’t exclusive. They’re also a great way to relieve stress and convert your emotions to something physical. According to the Life Enrichment Center, “the repetition and rhythm of sketching activates a relaxation response, reducing the stress hormone cortisol.” Things that flow and mend together smoothly, such as doodling, are attractive to our brains because they can release dopamine, thus reducing stress. 

There are several ways to show your emotions, whether verbal, physical, or mental. If you have something on your mind, it’s not as easy to express it through movement or talking. You can describe and act out what’s on your mind, but getting your whole emotion out through those methods is harder. That’s where doodling comes into play. Through doodling, you can express ANYTHING you want. Doodling lets you write words, draw pictures, or even create a story. This simple art is perfect when it comes to expressing oneself because the only limitation is your imagination and emotions. While your doodles may not turn out perfect, every stroke and spot you doodle reflects your emotions, thus effectively mirroring your intentions and feelings outside of your body and mind.

Due to the minimal amount of materials, low restrictions, simplicity, and the small amount of space it takes up, doodling is the perfect thing for everyone when they’re bored or can’t find the right way to express themselves. Everyone should incorporate Doodling into their lives, even if it’s once a week or ten times a day; it doesn’t matter as long as you’re doodling.