Is Mind-Wandering a Chronic Stressor?

Future-oriented thinking and mind-wandering both serve as complex evolutionary achievements that allow humans to reason, learn, and plan life. Killingsworth and Gilbert (2010) describe how these cognitive processes come with an emotional cost. There are connections, similarities, and distinctions between both. I think an important distinction between mind-wandering and future-oriented thinking is the recognition of attachment to positive or negative thought cycles. Identifying thoughts that foster positive realistic outcomes support personal growth and future planning while unproductive, negative thoughts can lead to a stress response. The difference seems to be intention, self-awareness, and the ability to be self-compassionate. Noticing cognitive patterns through mindfulness cultivates awareness and choice over of the thoughts we attach to whether we are wandering or planning. Without this awareness we can perpetuate an unconscious cycle that feeds an overactive mind, making mind-wandering a chronic stressor.

Aspinwall (2006) suggests that future oriented thinking may be protective of mental and physical health. Research shows planning improves socioeconomic factors that lead to better health outcomes and quality of life. To develop the ability to think with purpose and intention makes planning and brainstorming a beneficial tool for health and wellbeing. This means being vigilant and recognizing the power of choice over our thoughts. Discerning between what I give my attention to means having more anatomy and control over future outcomes.

Killingsworth and Gilbert (2010) describe analysis that found people’s minds wander frequently and can lead to unhappiness. Is there such thing as productive mind wandering? I notice some benefits related to growth and overcoming adversity. For example, I think mind wandering into the past allows us to reflect on personal growth and overlooked accomplishments. Through this reflection new stories and perspectives can emerge that rewrite past wrongs and foster forgiveness. Sometimes we have to reveal deep hidden suppressed memories to let go, heal, and release.

Be well.

Brittany

Aspinwall, L.G. The Psychology of Future-Oriented Thinking: From Achievement to Proactive Coping, Adaptation, and Aging. Motiv Emot 29, 203–235 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11031-006-9013-1

Killingsworth, M. A., & Gilbert, D. T. (2010). A wandering mind is an unhappy mind. Science (New York, N.Y.), 330(6006), 932. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1192439