Mind Games

HAVE YOU EVER wondered why some people have their best ideas in the shower? According to every internet article on this subject, it’s a mixture of three factors: dopamine, distraction, and a relaxed state of mind.

My best ideas come while I lie in bed in the “hypnagogic state.” I’m finally getting the sleep I’ve been craving since I woke up (dopamine), my phone is put away (no distraction), and the busy day is behind me (relaxed state of mind).

Science Focus says, “during this state, our mind is free to wander, and this could make us more likely to have spontaneous, creative thoughts.” But here’s the kicker: “If you fall asleep immediately after this state, you will likely forget your inspirational ideas.”

Which is exactly what happened to me last night. As I was drifting off, I wrote my editor’s note in my head, line by line, until I fell asleep, peacefully knowing all I would have to do is put pen to paper – er, fingers to keypad – in the morning. But when I woke up, it was gone. I could not (and still can’t) remember a single word, not even the basic theme, to save my life.

Was what I crafted the Pulitzer Prize-winning, world peace-giving, game-changing letter I thought it was or was whatever I concocted in my head simply nonsense as my brain finally shut off and sleep set in? I guess we’ll never know because you’re stuck with this editor’s note instead, which is probably closer to nonsense than game changing.

I’m curious where you get your best ideas. Do you keep a journal or your phone nearby for that million-dollar plan? Or have you found those free-flowing thoughts are just that – thoughts. Sound off in the July Brain Squad survey (bigpicturemag.com/brainsquad).