I’ve spent a lot of time studying the concept of thinking clearly. After reading numerous research articles, studies, books, and varying opinions I noticed this recurring theme – It’s not so much about how, but where.
Most of us are born with the ability to process thought. It’s called a brain. However, after reviewing current news releases and social media posts, it makes me wonder if society is losing its ability to think things through.
Basically, my findings show that thinking clearly is hindered if we don’t let our minds pause and reflect.
A few findings that limit our ability of thinking clearly
- Inability to Relax – Want Clear Thinking? Relax
- High Levels of Stress – High Levels of Stress Prevent You Thinking Clearly
- Emotional issues – Thinking clearly requires feeling deeply
- Mental Laziness and Information overload – Mental Laziness Is More Common Than Ever: How to Overcome It?
- Excessive use of technology – Brain health consequences of digital technology use
The stress of constant awareness
According to current thought, it’s vital that we stay – socially connected, mentally entertained, environmentally involved, physically fit, emotionally empathetic, and conform to societies changing expectations. With this on our minds, it’s no wonder all of our brains haven’t gone on strike.
In a nutshell, the culprit revolves mostly when we become fixated on constant action and awareness. In our fast-moving culture, it seems response supersedes reflection.
If you doubt this, just watch the evening news, or follow a few Twitter accounts.
Thinking less not more
Here’s probably the best summary of this issue found from a quote from Dr. Moshe Bar from Think Less, Think Better – “In a study published in this month’s Psychological Science, the graduate student Shira Baror and I demonstrate that the capacity for original and creative thinking is markedly stymied by stray thoughts, obsessive ruminations and other forms of “mental load.” Many psychologists assume that the mind, left to its own devices, is inclined to follow a well-worn path of familiar associations. But our findings suggest that innovative thinking, not routine ideation, is our default cognitive mode when our minds are clear.”
Finding a place to think is vital for clear thinking
Being able to think clearly helps us limit risk and make better choices. And one of the easiest ways is to set aside a time and place to release the pressure from our brains.
Obviously, the place is determined by the individual. For me, it depends on the reason.
- To release emotional pressures, I prefer a quiet place outdoors to walk around (like my garden or local park).
- As a way to calm my thoughts, I go to my distraction free stretching area in my house. Lying down and slowly stretching my body provides the time to release both mental and physical stress.
- To foster creativity, I like a highly interactive location like a coffee shop with paper to write my thoughts. For some reason the mix of hustle and bustle stimulates my creative juices.
In our fast-moving culture, it seems response supersedes reflection.
Finding our ‘clear-thinking place’
If you want to think clearly you must start somewhere. Basically, find and set aside an area which limits distractions and lets our mind find its peaceful place. Our minds occupy a physical location (our brain) and our body needs a physical location (our clear thinking place) conducive to letting our minds rest for a time.
Wherever that may be, find it and start today.