The Art Of Doing Nothing: A Psychologist's Perspective On The Value Of 'Non-Thinking'

Psychological research teaches us to embrace a slower pace in our accelerated world.

By Mark Travers, Ph.D. | June 27, 2023

According to a classic study published in Perspectives on Psychological Science, it is likely that the more we use our brains, the less age-related cognitive decline we experience. But what does this really mean? Does it mean that we all need to become around-the-clock thinkers and information-processing machines? Probably not.

Humans are expected to keep up with the blazing speed of technological advancement today. This inevitably leads to the fast-paced life we are all familiar with. Given the relentless pace of modern life, it is unsurprising that the prevalence of mental illness is increasing.

That's why slowing things down and taking a step back to appreciate your life and journey is extremely beneficial to your mental health. Here are three ways taking some time out to just laze and saunter, rather than hustle and run ahead, will help you live a more fulfilling and joyful life.

#1. Slowing down helps you make better decisions

By slowing down, we are potentially able to stave off decision fatigue, which is when our ability to make decisions is depleted due to the large number of decisions we have already made.

The pressures of our fast-paced world may call for a number of decisions to be made, but by consciously slowing down and making time to, say, enjoy an evening stroll in the park, we offer ourselves the opportunity to recharge and make wiser decisions.

Research backs this up. A 2011 study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that parole judges, who are expected to make rational decisions based on the facts presented to them, were more lenient earlier in the day compared to later in the day, indicating that decision making is often influenced by extraneous factors. The study concluded that it was decision fatigue that caused the parole judges to be less lenient as the day progressed.

We all make several decisions throughout the day. These decisions use up brain power, which is a finite resource. Dedicating time to doing nothing means that, temporarily, you won't be in charge of making high-stakes decisions. These 'decision savings' can then be used to make better, higher-quality decisions when the situation calls for it.

#2. Giving your brain time to relax helps it perform better

A 2020 study shows that digital technology is causing us to display more ADHD-like symptoms and is negatively impacting our ability to understand each other emotionally and socially.

A 2012 study published in Frontiers of Human Neuroscience found that people who have been long-time practitioners of meditation performed better than those who have never meditated on a test of spatial attention, which is an information-processing task. Similarly, a separate study published in Cognitive Therapy and Research investigated the effects of a 10-day intensive mindfulness training course on attentional control, cognitive style, and emotional well-being. The results revealed that participants with no prior meditation experience exhibited significant improvements in attention, reduced rumination and dysfunctional attitudes, and increased positive affect and self-compassion.

These findings emphasize the significance of embracing a slower pace of life and integrating mindfulness practices — especially in the context of a digital lifestyle — highlighting the positive impacts they can have on attention, self-reflection, and overall mental well-being.

Conclusion

In a world that demands constant speed and connectedness, it is essential to recognize the value of slowing down and giving ourselves permission to take breaks. By intentionally slowing our pace, we can combat decision fatigue, make better choices, and optimize our cognitive abilities. Moreover, incorporating mindfulness practices into our daily lives can contribute to improved attention, emotional well-being, and self-compassion.