For us to have those powerful insights or “aha” moments, we need to have a moment of brain pause. From a neuroscience perspective, that means that the Default Mode Network needs to be active.
“The default mode network is the collection of the areas of the brain that increase in activity when we are not focused on a task”
— “Neuroscience for Coaches”, 3rd Edition by Amy Brann
In today’s world, we’ve conditioned ourselves to always be busy. The moment I’m finished one task, I pick up my phone and check my messages. When I see that I have no more messages, I find something else to distract me. We keep seeking to have something to keep our brains active so that we’re never bored.
The problem is that those moment of idleness are exactly what we need to generate real insights. Have you noticed that you often get your best thoughts in the shower, or when you’re out for a walk? Those are the moments that your Default Mode Network is active, and the insights come from there.
The Default Mode Network is needed for more than just insights though.
“This network is crucial for self-referential thinking, memory consolidation, and envisioning the future. Without adequate downtime, we risk burnout, decreased cognitive function, and impaired decision-making.”
— Neuroscientist Ramon David in the Brain First Institute newsletter
The next time you find yourself reaching for your phone to get that quick fix, consider just letting your brain pause for a moment. You’ll thank yourself for it later.