Although there are many anecdotal stories of breakthroughs resulting from daydreams – Einstein, for instance, was notorious for his wandering mind – daydreaming itself is usually cast in a negative light. Children in school are encouraged to stop daydreaming and “focus,” and wandering minds are often cited as a leading cause of traffic accidents. In a culture obsessed with efficiency, daydreaming is derided as a lazy habit or a lack of discipline, the kind of thinking we rely on when we don’t really want to think. It’s a sign of procrastination, not productivity, something to be put away with your flip-flops and hammock as summer draws to a close.
In recent years, however, scientists have begun to see the act of daydreaming very differently. They’ve demonstrated that daydreaming is a fundamental feature of the human mind – so fundamental, in fact, that it’s often referred to as our “default” mode of thought. Many scientists argue that daydreaming is a crucial tool for creativity, a thought process that allows the brain to make new associations and connections.
“Important Work can be Done while Daydreaming in The Boston Globe.
Bravo! Daydreaming is indeed essential. I firmly believe a big mistake many parents make nowadays is that they feel their kids need to be entertained all the time. They need the time and place to think. Some of my most peaceful memories of childhood is time spent alone beside the neighborhood pond, listening to the birds; or reading and relaxing with a good book in an apple tree.
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And I just thought everyone knew daydreaming was an essential part of life!! Thanks for confirming it though. I wish everyone would take time to daydream and the world would be a better place!! Love you blog…
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I knew I was doing something importnat when I was staring off into space. Thanks, Diana
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i i wanna hav a look @ this. I was thinking this is one thing we have not explored beside other natural patterns we learn to ignore
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