World | Other World Stories

Daydreaming not a bad thing after all

Daydreaming might not be such a bad thing after all. It helps the brain tackle life's more complex problems, a new study has found.

  • IANS
  • Published: 22:52 May 12, 2009
  • Gulf News

Toronto: Daydreaming might not be such a bad thing after all. It helps the brain tackle life's more complex problems, a new study has found.

"Mind wandering is typically associated with negative things like laziness or inattentiveness," said study co-author, Kalina Christoff, psychologist at the University of British Columbia, who led the research.

"But this study shows our brains are very active when we daydream - much more active than when we focus on routine tasks," she added.

"When you daydream, you may not be achieving your immediate goal - say reading a book or paying attention in class - but your mind may be taking that time to address more important questions in your life, such as advancing your career or personal relationships," said Christoff.

The quantity and quality of brain activity suggests that people struggling to solve complicated problems might be better off switching to a simpler task and letting their mind wander.

Your comments


Oh, thank God! Now I have a solid excuse to give my Arabic teacher when he catches me day dreaming. "Oh, I'm sorry sir, but I was busy tackling some very tiring life problems rather than studying Arabic." Lovely.
Neiha Lasharie
Dubai,UAE
Posted: May 13, 2009, 16:52

I agree! I love daydreaming, it takes me off to another calmer world, especially if I'm struggling with reality, or bored of it.
From A Reader
Dubai,UAE
Posted: May 13, 2009, 13:39

More from Other World Stories

  1. Putin leaves a bitter taste for many Russians

  2. Experts thrilled to find ancient homes

  3. Monk fights invisible demon in nuke town

  4. Maldives former president demands election

All articles in Other World

More from World

Gulf News
Popular in World

More from world

News Editor's choice