Researchers Eric Schumacher and Christine Godwin from the Georgia Institute of Technology have found that people who daydream are not slackers, but rather thinkers. They believe that these thinkers may possess greater brain capacity or efficiency than the average person. Therefore, people have to add more thoughts to the brain to keep it running correctly and improve their brainn health.
Using MRI imaging, the research group examined the brain patterns of 100 participants. They instructed the participants to focus on a single point for five minutes. Their goal was to identify which parts of the brain worked together while the individuals remained awake but at rest.
In addition to the scans, the researchers gave participants questionnaires to assess IQ, creativity, and how often their minds wandered during daily tasks. They then compared the MRI data to the questionnaire results. Their findings showed a clear link between brain activity patterns and different cognitive abilities and thought processes.
Interestingly, frequent daydreamers scored higher in raw intellect and creativity. Their brains also worked more efficiently, as seen in MRI scans.
The research team believes the brain may unlock greater thinking and creativity when it drifts during simple tasks. Therefore, daydreaming or mind-wandering could signal a more efficient brain—especially when people stay on task without missing steps. Goodwin notes that intent and motivation play a key role in staying focused and finishing tasks.
Schumacher adds that this reminds her of brilliant individuals who seem lost in their own worlds. Although unaware of their surroundings, they perform exceptionally in their fields. Likewise, many gifted children drift off in class due to boredom. Repetitive lessons, while helpful for others, often frustrate these kids and may cause disruptive behavior.
Staying focused is crucial. However, Goodwin and Schumacher believe more research is needed to understand when daydreaming helps or hinders a person’s performance.