Mental Space

“Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.”
–Albert Einstein*

Is there anything that we creative types prize more than imagination? I expect not.

One way that we can support our imaginativeness is to preserve the mental space necessary for our ideas to germinate and grow.

Problem is, in our hyperconnected world, information bombards us, and processing all of that information consumes our mental resources.

Here are 5 habits I adopt to protect and replenish the mental space I need to do creative work.

Keeping my long-term aims in mind, I set smaller goals for each day, week, and month.

I then affirm the importance of these goals throughout the day so that they stay in my thoughts.

I determine when and where I’ll practice or write, and then I abide by my schedule.

Before I begin working, I center myself and disconnect from everything else.

Because I know that information will grab my attention, especially when I find it interesting, I set limits on how much I take in.

I enjoy the time I spend online and watching movies, and I participate in social media, but I don’t overindulge.

“In our hyperconnected world, information bombards us, and processing all of that information consumes our mental resources.”

It’s hard to imagine anything more attention-devouring than personal or professional dramas.

I foster inner peace by dealing with conflicts when they arise as opposed to letting them fester.

I reboot daily with physical activity. I also know that my brain needs fuel and rest, so I manage my diet and sleep, although it can be a challenge.

On top of that, I take time off to enjoy life and explore new places, people, and ideas.

It’s not easy to balance everything out, but if I wanted ease, I wouldn’t have chosen a life in the arts.

See pages 76-82 of The Musician’s Way for information about six restorative poses and movements.

*Viereck, George S., “What Life Means to Einstein,” The Saturday Evening Post, (October 26, 1929), p. 117.