Not every programming task needs to be a research project. There are plenty of boring business problems that needs the application of computing to automate. And it’s been a decent way to make a living for a while.
It’s great getting a good problem to chew on.
I try to keep a small percentage of my time occupied by one or two good ones. If I’m always bored it’s a sign I could be doing better. And I like being at my best.