People are juggling a lot these days: work, school, spouses, kids, chores, socializing and more. With all of these commitments, it can seem impossible to find the time to just sit down and think. However, time to think is important for maintaining optimal mental health. It also allows you figure out any problems in your life and do some soul-searching, if necessary. If you’re finding yourself short on time, try these 10 ways to fit thinking into your life:
1. Make the decision to make time.
If you’re going to make time to do more thinking, you need to commit to that decision. That means actively making time to do it. If you just say that you’ll make time, it’s likely that it won’t happen. Step up and make the decision that this is something that you want to do.
2. Schedule it in.
Step two is scheduling that time. Try finding gaps in your calendar that are pretty consistent from week to week. That way, you’ll be able to schedule it in regular increments of time.
3. Write it down.
It might sound silly, but if there’s a problem that you want to think about for a while, write down what that problem is. Once you get to the point where you can sit down and think about it, remind yourself of what that issue is. This will keep the problem fresh in your mind, which will enable you to have a more informed thought process about it.
4. Seek silence.
Even the most focused of people cannot think well around noise. It’s distracting and eats into thinking time. Try to find a time and place that is quiet and peaceful. Think of this as a time to meditate on whatever you want. This allows you to really focus all of your energy on the task at hand.
5. Be comfortable, mentally.
Many people are uncomfortable with too much time to think because they are afraid of facing their own thoughts. Don’t shy away from thinking. It’s important to be able to open up to yourself and think through things. This time is a gift, not a burden. Use it as a way to relax.
6. Be comfortable, physically.
Laying down, sitting on a pillow, reclining on the lawn — find a space where you feel physically comfortable. This will enable you to have a pleasant experience and really get to thinking. Try to find someplace that will be comfortable for a long period of time to avoid distraction.
7. Talk to yourself.
Thinking out loud is very helpful to some people. Even if the only person listening is you, it can be great to hear ideas. It makes your thought process more concrete, and will help you reach a solution or answer more quickly than if you keep everything in your head.
8. Take a break.
Midday breaks — such as lunchtime — are great times to think. Rather than working through lunch, take the time to gather your thoughts. Breakfast time provides another opportunity; in the morning, you can reflect about the tasks ahead and organize your day.
9. Exercise.
I find that workouts give me a great opportunity to think. This is especially true if you’re doing repetitive cardio, such as running. This involves little thought, which will give you more time to think about whatever is on your mind. The bonus is that thinking will take your mind off of the workout, which can make the activity seem easier.
10. Go on a drive.
Aimlessly driving around your neighborhood can be a great time to think. The car is quiet, and it’s a safe place to air your thoughts. Just make sure you’re not too distracted by your ideas, and pay attention to the road!
Featured photo credit: Kate Ter Haar via flickr.com
