Science. No really, it's a scientific principle. Studies (like this and this . . . see? I'm not making this stuff up.) show that when you're bored or relaxed, new ideas are more easily generated. Here's how it works:
- taking a break or being bored signals to your brain that you need fresh ideas
- new ideas are generated because your brain is looking for stimulation via solutions
Turns out our grey matter has a few different modes. There's a Focused Mode when you learn new things and a Diffused Mode when you relax. It's in the diffused mode that you're most creative.
But I know, I hear you. "Michelle! I can't go nodding off mid-afternoon just to come up with the fix for my plot problem. Sheesh. Some of us have to actually work, not nap." Good news little cowboys! It turns out that this creativity boost works if you simply take a break, which totally backs up my go-take-a-walk theory. Just getting outside for a short jaunt around the block can get the old creative juices flowing again. Proof is here.
So next time your writing hits the wall, don't panic. Just grab your satin-edged blankie and close your eyes or tie on your hiking boots and hoof it outside. A new idea is bound to pop up when you're not straining so hard to create one.
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5 comments:
When will they decide parking your butt in a chair and exercising your fingers is good for you?
There's got to be a study somewhere proving that. I'll go on a Google hunt!
:-) You two are funny. I'm sure it's good for you....I know it's good for me when I read what you write.
The ideas that come to me as I'm dropping off to sleep are almost always totally whacked. The ideas that come to me as I'm sleeping? ALWAYS totally whacked. I think my creativity reacts to sleep like it was LSD. However, I'm in complete agreement with you about getting up and moving around and/or doing something different. That works every time.
:-) You two are funny. I'm sure it's good for you....I know it's good for me when I read what you write.
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