ISitting around doing nothing feels almost defiant in today’s hustle-obsessed society. Emails, scrolling, side hustles, and podcasts fill every void. Our “breaks” are also planned in advance. Idleness isn’t sloth; it’s fuel, and your brain has recognized this the whole time.
The prefrontal cortex of your brain stays lit up like a dashboard at midnight while you’re continually switching tasks. Mental energy is wasted on that. Over time, it weakens your concentration, impedes your memory, and makes even the simplest of decisions seem burdensome.
However, your brain goes into default mode when you consciously do nothing—no screen, no objective, just sit, look, or wander. There is no “off” here. Your subconscious is the master organizer, link builder, and problem solver of your mind. So, it’s no surprise that some of the best ideas strike while you’re out for a stroll, in the shower, or completely sedated on a train.
Creativity, decision-making, and emotional regulation are all improved with regular “mental white space,” according to studies. Scheduled, unstructured time to contemplate is even encouraged by certain employers.
The art of doing nothing has been lost. It has latent potential, as do other forgotten arts.
I am thus requesting your approval:
End it. Take a seat. Glance towards the outside. Keep your mind from wandering.
In the middle of nowhere, you might find the start of something you didn’t even realize you needed.
Need some fresh concepts? Attempt to think less. A simple shower will do.