As introverts, perhaps we have our “thinking caps” turned on to high a little more than the rest of the world. But sometimes, especially when we have a problem or project we need to think through, we need to turn off our thinking. Stop coercing our brains to come up with an answer for a moment. Instead of actively thinking, we need to go into passive mode to give our brains a break.
As I was trying to think of a concept for today’s post, I realized that instead of forcing my thoughts, I needed to stop and take a break from active thinking in order to have a fresh perspective and generate some new ideas. Passive thinking is accomplished in different ways for different people, but it entails changing your focus from the problem. Passive thinking may take place during a workout, a nature hike, a mystery novel, or your favorite TV show. One of my favorite ways to clear my mind is just close my eyes and let my mind focus on something else for just a bit. Sometimes when I’m passively thinking, it may look like I’m doing nothing, if I am leaned back in my chair and have my feet up for a few moments. Or it might look like I am asleep. But I’m thinking and working. This short brain break enables me to clear my mind and get back to the task at hand. But sometimes I need to explain what I am doing, as people often don’t understand.
If your brain is not coming up with the solution – you know it’s there but you just can’t get to it – give yourself a brain break and do a little passive thinking. You’ll come back fresh and ready to solve that problem.
David Hall, M.Ed. is a speaker, author, and host of the Quiet and Strong Podcast, where he interviews thought leaders, creatives, and professionals who help introverts thrive. With over 25 years in higher education, David has led workshops, trainings, and presentations on productivity, personality, and introversion. His mission is to help introverts honor their needs, understand their strengths, and succeed on their own terms. He is the author of Minding Your Time: Time Management, Productivity, and Success, Especially for Introverts and a passionate advocate for creating work environments where introverts can do their best work.
