D is for Daydreaming.
Nothing fights boredom like a good daydream.
Daydreaming. We all do it. Happens in a nanosecond, probably happened when you clicked on the link opening this blog.
So many functions to it too: rehearsing, storing in long term memory, coming up with new ideas. Staving off boredom, escaping difficult situations, anticipating worst-case scenarios.
He even looks like he's paying attention! The beauty of it!
The thing that seems to make daydreaming more ‘effective’ or potentially useful, is meta-cognition- the ability to observe oneself daydreaming and reflect upon the content and application of the daydream. Those who can “think about their thinking” are more likely to harvest the creativity inherent in such a universal pleasure.
Haven't you dreamed of flying with a magic umbrella while chasing butterflies? Apparently others have too.
Too much negative daydreaming can lead to depression/anxiety disorders according to several major studies (which I am too lazy to include.) Suffice to say, if you can, re-direct your catastrophic daydream to one of saving the world to improve your mood (and even come up with good new blog topics for the A to Z Blog Challenge.)
This kind can feed on itself and contribute to depression and anxiety.
In my much longer blog Idea Mining I talk about a technique to harness daydreaming to solve problems. Check it out.
Try not to let this kind get too big. Unless you write horror.
How has daydreaming helped or hindered you?
Even a cliche can take me on a journey when daydreaming.
I never understood why daydreaming was something anyone wanted to do–since mine was often of the negative kind, otherwise known as very vivid worrying.
Like the illustration, that’s not good. but, unlike sleeping dreams you can steer daydreams.
I will actually say (out loud) STOP IT if I find my mind playing negative things. There’s enough negativity without me adding to it by making some up or worrying about things that haven’t happened yet.
But yes! I find daydreaming very empowering!
Coping or consuming time, either way it’s harnessing it that’s the trick.
Even my negative daydreams can fuel my stories, so I particularly liked your little pic of the ghoul and the caption “…Unless you write horror.” LOL.
yeah, I had to have that caveat!
Great post, and thanks for the link to your longer post. I give my mind questions all the time, and sometimes it does come up with answers.
It’s interesting what you wrote about carbs in there. I’ve found the same thing: they slow down my thinking.
thanks so much for taking the time to read the other post! I am excited to see what you’ve come up with today.
Aloha
Toby
Those pictures are AWESOME!! I love them!
Hee hee, it was so fun finding them. THere are not too many pictures of actual daydreams…