Early in the morning, I usually figure out what I’m going to blog about for the day. Sometimes, like today, I have a hard time deciding. So, when I have a hard time, I’ll do something boring and brainless, like knit or brush the dog, to help me think.
Not many people can give themselves permission to be bored, but zoning out can actually be good for you. Studies have shown that when your body is involved with menial tasks, it frees up your mind to focus on whatever creatively complex problem you’re trying to work on.
So what are some mindless tasks you can undertake to boost your creativity? Here are some suggestions:
- Do the Dishes: Always the number one go-to for ‘zoning out tasks’, doing the dishes is the perfect thing to get your mind on autopilot. It’s a simple, straightforward, sometimes even soothing task that can give you a sense of accomplishment while helping you solve your creative problems.
- Folding Laundry: Folding clothes is another one of those mindless tasks that can be so soothing. The warm laundry, the smell of the fabric softener – mmm, so good!
- Vacuuming: This one may not be as soothing as dishes or laundry, but it’s still as mindless. Basically, any cleaning chore is perfect for tuning out and letting your creativity do its work. Vacuuming is good because you get to move around a bit more than just wiping off counters or dusting.
- Take a Shower: If you don’t feel like cleaning the house, clean yourself. The ultimate in soothing, the relaxation of the hot water combined with the routine of washing lets you totally zone out and let the creativity flow.
- Walk the Dog: You get outside, there’s fresh air, you get a little exercise, change of scenery, it’s perfect. If you don’t have a dog you can always go for a jog or run, anything to get the body moving and away from your desk.
All these things can help you to check out for awhile and let your little ‘mental sweatshop’ do its job. But be forewarned – these things are also great excuses to procrastinate. Make sure to set a time limit on your mental ‘spa day’ so you remember to get back to work!
Skinny Grey Dog 