To Become More Creative, Let Your Mind Wander

Mind wandering, the tendency to try accomplishing one thing but lapsing into thoughts unrelated to the task, has always been seen in a negative light; as a weakness, possessed by people who are lazy and not focused enough.

But new research suggests that mind wandering is a very common phenomenon and people’s minds seem to wander as much as 30 percent of their waking hours. Psychologists also say that mind wandering fosters creativity and keeps us on-course towards our long term goals.

Eric Klinger, a psychologist at the University of Minnesota writes in the Handbook of Imagination and Mental Simulation:

While a person is occupied with one task, this [brain’s system of mind wandering] system keeps the individual’s larger agenda fresher in mind. It thus serves as a kind of reminder mechanism, thereby increasing the likelihood that the other goal pursuits will remain intact and not get lost in the shuffle of pursuing many goals.

To encourage this creative process, scientists suggest indulging in relatively undemanding tasks such as jogging, taking a walk or simply doodling to free the mind to wander productively.

Handbook of Imagination and Mental Simulation

NY Times: “Discovering the Virtues of a Wandering Mind”

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