This picture has been reproduced by kind permission of stormthorgerson.com.
January 2, 2017 8:00 am
by Tara Lazar
Amidst the chaos and confusion of the past year, a Zen movement gathered steam, gently simmering in the background of our harried lives and minds. You may have noticed—albeit fleetingly—while shuffling through news of war, tragedy, and a deeply divided nation. You may have caught a glimpse, in the corner of your eye, as you rushed from work to home to school to conflicting calendar commitments.
Our technologically advanced, modern lives are supposed to be more efficient and productive, but instead we feel required to do MORE with the time we have—and to feel badly when we don’t, to somehow believe we are faulty, we have failed.
This picture has been reproduced by kind permission of stormthorgerson.com.
And for these reasons, “mindfulness” achieved an elevated status this past year. I witnessed it everywhere in 2016—in magazines and articles, on TV, and even in the opening of a sensory deprivation spa a few miles from my home.
I learned about mindfulness before it had a name. Newly diagnosed with MS, I became a worry-wart, imagining my future as a helpless invalid. I lamented the inevitable loss of independence, a retirement not surrounded by loving grandchildren, but by indifferent nurses. Finally, after what I refer to as “the lost year,” I learned that worrying about the future makes you miss out on the here and now. I strived to instead be present in the moment. This is mindfulness.
Mindfulness can work wonders for creativity. Being more aware of your environment, your actions, interactions and emotions gives you a better understanding of being human, which, in turn, is fuel for character development. Others’ reactions also serve as powerful material for storytelling. Being mindful can help us capture and remember pieces of daily life that lend an authenticity to our stories. Moving about with a constant, present focus, will allow you to see ideas, to be open to the inspiration that exists around you every day.
In being mindful, we should also make time just to be, just to think. The most successful entrepreneurs in the world schedule time to ponder their lives and careers. You should be similarly thoughtful about your writing path. Where do you want to go? What do you want to accomplish? Who do you want to be as an author?
This is where I often sit and just think. I call it the “brick oven” because it remains warm even on winter days…and because it bakes my ideas.
And now I am going to confuse the Dickens out of you.
While I am all for the benefits of mindfulness, I also urge you to let your mind wander, to daydream. You probably already do. And you should not stop.
Not being mindful when performing routine tasks—like folding laundry, washing dishes, taking a shower—allows the mind to escape the doldrums of daily life. You do not have to think about how to do the things you have done thousands of times. You can free up your mind to go on an adventure. Some of the best ideas come when we are not focused on the here and now.
But wait, isn’t that the opposite of mindfulness?
Actually, I believe practicing mindfulness can lead us to become better daydreamers. They are not adversaries, but partners in creative living. According to daydream researchers McMillan, Singer and Kaufman, “Creativity lies in that intersection between our outer world and our inner world.” I interpret this as meaning we must pay strong attention to both daily duties and daydreaming. In other words, let the things around you stimulate the daydream. This is called inspiration, right?
We can set aside time just to daydream, or we can be aware when we lose our focus to daydream, and allow the thoughts to flow. If we stop our minds from wandering, I fear we may lose our ability to be creative. After all, the illusive ideas we seek ultimately come from within our own minds. So maybe when you feel a daydream coming, you can pay attention to it, let it happen. Grab a notebook. Yes, be MINDFUL of when you are not MINDFUL.
And this, my friends, is how you mine—and mind—your ideas.
Tara Lazar is a picture book author and founder of Storystorm. She has two books releasing in 2017—WAY PAST BEDTIME from Aladdin/S&S and 7 ATE 9: THE UNTOLD STORY from Disney*Hyperion. Tara is a council member of the Rutgers University Council on Children’s Literature and a picture book mentor for We Need Diverse Books. She lives in New Jersey with her husband, two daughters, and far too many stuffed animals.
Tara is giving away an “Ask Me Anything” Skype session (or Facetime, or telephone). These typically last about an hour, but she will stay on the line (internet?) until you have answers to your most burning questions regarding children’s publishing. From initial idea to polished query, from deciding on an agent to marketing a book, she will cover it all. The opinions of Tara do reflect those of her employer, which, incidentally, is also Tara.
Leave ONE COMMENT below to enter. You are eligible to win if you are a registered Storystorm participant and you have commented once on this blog post. Prizes will be given away at the conclusion of the event.
Good luck!
Posted by Tara Lazar
Categories: STORYSTORM 2017
Tags: mindfulness
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Very thought-provoking! Thank you, Tara. Now for the rest of the night, I will let my mind wander.
By Tina Cho on January 2, 2017 at 8:09 am
This daydreamer thanks you for this post 😉
By Candy on January 2, 2017 at 8:17 am
Great post to start my day. Thanks, Tara.
By Sarah Skolfield on January 2, 2017 at 8:18 am
Are the mind and the imagination different entities? All I know is that characters, plots, stories, ideas, troop through my head whenever they feel like it. But you are right, that open state of mindfulness can be so receptive to whatever muse is floating around!
By Ann Martin on January 2, 2017 at 8:18 am
Love it, Tara! If I don’t get a chance to think during the day I feel very unproductive. I love getting to bed early just to give me time to think about my writing.
By meganleewrites on January 2, 2017 at 8:18 am
Mindful daydreaming. I love it! Thank you for all you do for the writing community, Tara!
By laura516 on January 2, 2017 at 8:22 am
I started practicing yoga this past year and I’m amazed at how being mindful and focused leads to intense and creative daydreaming. I hope to carry that through this year! Thanks Tara!
By junesmalls on January 2, 2017 at 8:29 am
Thank you, Tara. I will remain mindful while I daydream. 🙂
By Sue Poduska on January 2, 2017 at 8:31 am
Practicing mindfulness let’s us”notice” those daydreams that might otherwise flit past and not be acknowledged
Thank you Tara!
By Shelly Hawley-Yan on January 2, 2017 at 8:33 am
Fabulous! I like the idea of embracing both mindfulness and daydreaming.
By lindaschueler on January 2, 2017 at 8:34 am
Mindful daydreaming…perfect advice. Thank you Tara! Best of health!
By stiefelchana on January 2, 2017 at 8:34 am
Wonderful. Thanks for sharing Tara.
By Ian David Robertson on January 2, 2017 at 8:34 am
Excellent, Tara! Creating circumstances when we quiet our minds and notice what’s happening right here and now can open up all kinds of new creative channels. I love this quote from Dinty W. Moore, author of The Mindful Writer: “First, don’t grasp too hard or you will choke off any creativity. Second, be open to the moment, the surprise, the gift of grace, or enlightenment. If you are not mindful, not attentive, you will fall victim to the first and fail to recognize the second. So be alert. Be deliberate. Take care.”
By Deborah Sosin on January 2, 2017 at 8:34 am
Mindfulness is very important! We’re a mindful family (of our serenity and our daydreaming) and I teach it to my students, too (well, the peace type- not the daydreaming part!).
By Erik Ammon on January 2, 2017 at 8:35 am
Food for thought here. I especially like your “brainstorming bench.”
By Sherri Jones Rivers on January 2, 2017 at 8:35 am
I love this. I will mine my mind. I call being mindful being purposeful, Thank you for the re-minder. Isn’t this fun?
By kiwijenny on January 2, 2017 at 8:38 am
my best ideas come from the shower, the hair dryer, the vacuum
By Joanna Sabal on January 2, 2017 at 8:42 am
I always find myself daydreaming when I take walks in the woods. Good for my mind an soul!
By pathaap on January 2, 2017 at 8:49 am
Mining the mind and minding the mine.
By Deborah Bernard on January 2, 2017 at 8:51 am
I love the “brick oven”. Will let my mind wander…
By Dana Carey on January 2, 2017 at 8:52 am
I do love some good daydreaming time. Not a lot of it with a toddler around, so I have to remind myself not to feel guilty when I spend an occasional naptime just sitting and thinking.
By Connie B. Dowell on January 2, 2017 at 8:52 am
I have been working on slowing down my pace in life, eliminating unnecessary commitments and savoring more of the here and now too. I know that’s a little easier for me than it might be for some people ( I’m retired and I don’t have little ones in the house 😦 ….I miss that part.) That and allowing those “daydream” moments to let creativity flow are great suggestions. I am so excited about this year’s STORYSTORM. This is going to be my best writing year yet. Thank you for doing this Tara.
By makz5650 on January 2, 2017 at 8:53 am
Thank you for the inspiring thoughts!
By darlene koppel on January 2, 2017 at 8:54 am
The biggest impediment to mindfulness for me are those dxxx earbuds. Constant access to the news, which is hard to stay away from in these troubling times.
By Alex Borns-Weil on January 2, 2017 at 9:02 am
My brick oven is my butterfly garden. Tara, thank you for the wonderful post and for creating Storystorm.
By Beverly R. Marsh on January 2, 2017 at 9:04 am
Your linking mindfulness and creative daydreaming is food for thought! Thanks, Tara!
By PJ on January 2, 2017 at 9:05 am
No one has ever given me permission to daydream 😀 ! Or better yet, encouraged it, brilliant! Also it is very true that in this chaotic world we must find/create innocence and beauty. One of the reasons I like writing for kids is that Picture books are pure and wonderful.
By Elsa Takaoka on January 2, 2017 at 9:05 am
Great post! Sometimes when you are the busiest with close deadlines, taking a break, whether to sit and not think, or daydream or just do some rote task is the best thing you can do to refresh your brain. Thanks for the reminder.
By Anne Bielby on January 2, 2017 at 9:11 am
A quiet, calm mind helps me focus. Lately my mind has been in its own storm. I look forward to practicing mindfulness. I am a very good daydreamer. BTW, another replace I’ve heard mindfulness pooping up is in educational circles! Great post!
By kathalsey on January 2, 2017 at 9:11 am
I have found the longer I work at being a strong writer, I find myself dancing between those two paths more and more often. I like how you think, Tara, and oh how I would love to win this prize so I could pick your brain…;~)
Great post!
By Donna L Martin on January 2, 2017 at 9:11 am
I carve with a chainsaw as part of my day job. Carving a bear from a log is now second nature for me. I wear noise-cancelling headphones and listen to audio books. Sometimes I just listen to my thoughts and brainstorm story ideas. Oh yeah, I always have a notebook in my pocket.
Thanks for the post.
By Rick Starkey on January 2, 2017 at 9:14 am
I like to appreciate nature while walking my dog. That unlocks my mind. It seems I get my best ideas when I’m NOT looking for them. And I always bring my phone to write quick notes too.
By Andria Rosenbaum on January 2, 2017 at 9:14 am
Thumbs up from a daydreamer. Next time I burn the dinner, wash my son’s mobile or burn a hole in my husband’s work trousers, I can be content in the fact that it is all in the greater good of developing my imagination. Thank you, Tara.
By Beverley McWilliams on January 2, 2017 at 9:16 am
Daydreaming a day mindfulness what a beautiful way to connect things. Thank you!
By Sarita F. on January 2, 2017 at 9:16 am
I’m a daydream believer (but not a homecoming queen) and I think this is very good advice. The mindfulness is probably something I should work on. Great post! Thanks Tara.
By Jason Kirschner on January 2, 2017 at 9:16 am
Keep dreaming and writing, dear Tara. I have always admired you and your tenacity. Thanks for the inspiration! XOXO
By Lynne Marie on January 2, 2017 at 9:19 am
Thanks Tara. I will definitely be mindful of my mindless moments. 😉
By Tracey M. Cox on January 2, 2017 at 9:21 am
Thank you for permission to sit and daydream. I do this a lot and now I see it’s vital and I don’t need to feel guilty about it. I’m being mindful and “baking ideas!”
By Lori Dubbin on January 2, 2017 at 9:24 am
Great advice to keep notepads everywhere for any potential brainstorming ideas that pop into my head while mentally escaping the doldrums of laundry and dishes…and my one hour commute! Thank you Tara:>
By Polly Renner on January 2, 2017 at 9:24 am
Well said, Tara! As a teacher of meditation and mindfulness I believe in the middle way even in mindfulness. Many thanks for all you do! ❤
By Donna Rossman on January 2, 2017 at 9:26 am
Thank you, Tara! I’m so happy to be a part of Storystorm!
By Della R Ferreri on January 2, 2017 at 9:27 am
My best ideas come while I’m pulling weeds in the garden! Thank you for sharing your story — we all have those “lost years,” and it’s good to be reminded that we can move past them.
By mgkingwrites on January 2, 2017 at 9:29 am
Thanks for this, Tara–I will be mindful of this. 🙂
By Cynthia Cotten on January 2, 2017 at 9:33 am
Yes, yes, yes! I’ve been working on this a lot the past few months. Mindfulness is so important for me, both professionally and personally! This tech world and the go go go feel of our lives makes me feel very discombobulated some days. Great post, Tara!
By Ali Pfautz on January 2, 2017 at 9:38 am
I agree 100% Tara. Last year, one of my courses at the University of Washington was ECFS 311: Becoming a Resilient Educator. We discussed mindfulness in depth and it has completely changed my life. It has carried over into ALL other areas of my life. One easy thing to do to get started right away is creating a gratitude journal where you list 5 things for that day. It’s not so much about what those things are. It’s more about the act of thinking, of SEARCHING, that provides the benefits.
Happy searching! ⭐️
By Stephanie Geckle (@SPGeckle) on January 2, 2017 at 9:38 am
Loving that you have introduced MINDFULNESS and MIND-WANDERING to each other. They really *ought* to be friends, and I can see how each sort of makes things easier for the other.
By hmmmmm on January 2, 2017 at 9:39 am
Mindfulness, daydreaming, both are important. But your passion for writing and for living are more inspiring than either.
By Joyce Shor Johnson (@thewritejoyce) on January 2, 2017 at 9:40 am
Thank you so much for this annual booster shot of inspiration, Tara!
By Sandy Asher on January 2, 2017 at 9:46 am
Both reminders are so good. Too often we are immersed in mindlessness, something just enough to distract our consciousness that our subconscious can’t get off the couch, which stifles creativity.
By Kristi Romo on January 2, 2017 at 9:47 am
I began a sporadic meditation practice this past year, and developing mindfulness has grounded me in such a way that, even when I’m daydreaming, I can perceive and acknowledge the inspirational aspects of that mental state. Thanks for the reminder to get back on my cushion!
By Megan on January 2, 2017 at 9:47 am
Thank you, Tara, for sharing your personal struggles and path to becoming centered.
Most of us have had what you call your lost year in some form or another and find our way forward through art. Mindfulness is essential in that process. I recommend walking alone or with a dog who can daydream by your side to enter that rich creative space between the dreaming and awake mind. There is the muse.
By Gretchen Brandenburg McLellan on January 2, 2017 at 9:47 am
Tara, you are so spot on about mindfulness and the creative brain. Thanks for all you do!
By Diane Kress Hower on January 2, 2017 at 9:47 am
Great post and best prize ever!!
By Kim Erickson on January 2, 2017 at 9:48 am
I daydream when I walk. It has been an essential part of my journey as a writer. Thanks for your thoughts about this, Tara. And thanks for reminding us to live in the here and now! You’re an inspiration 😀
By Penny Parker Klostermann on January 2, 2017 at 9:50 am
Mindful living enhances everything we do! Even the down or sad times, always happy to see reminders of this valuable practice!
By lololaffan on January 2, 2017 at 9:53 am
Great advice! Over the past year, my writing has been in a slump–so much so, I haven’t written in the past 4 months. I needed a way to clear my mind, refocus, and stretch my creative muscles again. Recently, I found yoga and it has helped so much. I noticed someone else posted a similar comment about yoga helping them refocus and I was happy to see I’m not the only one. 🙂
By Marsha Blevins, Author on January 2, 2017 at 9:53 am
Great post. I’m sorry to hear about your diagnosis! May you have many, many good years and respond well to your meds.
I love your thoughts on mindfulness…and day dreaming. Having small kids in our house makes it challenging to shut down the “must-do” hamster wheel in my head, but is so important! And makes room for creative growth.
Happy New Year! 🙂
By The Mom Who Runs on January 2, 2017 at 9:58 am
Love this–both practices are so necessary! And yes on yoga. After some PT recently, I am back to yoga after about 18 months away from it. Even though I only do it weekly, it makes a difference over time!
By Laura Purdie Salas on January 2, 2017 at 10:00 am
Thanks, Tara. This last year, I went through test after test, doctor after doctor, as they tried to determine if I had MS. The final verdict for me was no, but there are still more questions to answer. I understand a lost year. I understand how physical concerns can take up most of the space in your mind. I also understand how paying attention, being mindful, can save you from all of those what ifs. But dreaming is good medicine too.
I love that you have a brick oven where you bake new ideas. We all need a place in the sun in which to let the dough of our deepest selves become what we are meant to become.
By catcarole on January 2, 2017 at 10:01 am
Thank you, Tara, for this wonderfully insightful blog post! I found it so helpful!
By Annie Cronin Romano on January 2, 2017 at 10:05 am
Amazing! I never thought about mindful daydreams until now. Thanks for the inspiration.
By Peter on January 2, 2017 at 10:06 am
Dear Tara, Thank you for this post on mindfulness. One of my goals for 2017 is to minimize the time I spend being unproductively anxious, and increase my creative and mindful moments. With a sick baby at home, I’m considering today day one of 2017, and this was the perfect way to kick off my morning. Thanks again!
Brittany Orrico
By Brittany Orrico on January 2, 2017 at 10:09 am
So true! One of my goals this year (for writing and for life) is to reduce digital distractions. It’s a meaningless habit that cuts into staying present and into my writing life!
By angkunkel on January 2, 2017 at 10:11 am
Great advice. Mindful living nudges one to focus outside of themselves, which is always good.
By tblease on January 2, 2017 at 10:11 am
Thank you, Tara! Storystorm is the perfect catalyst for the mindful daydreaming combo. I already have an idea (actually something re-remembered that I let go before), ready to be transcribed into the Cafe Press journal scheduled to arrive tomorrow.
By Wendy Greenley on January 2, 2017 at 10:13 am
Inspiring. Thank you for sharing, Tara!
By tabithasimswrites on January 2, 2017 at 10:14 am
Great post. Couldn’t have come at a better time for me. I will do my best to be mindlessly mindful…
By Krissy on January 2, 2017 at 10:15 am
Hi, my name is Maureen, and I’m a Mindful Daydreamer. (The sauna at my gym is used for meditation, everything is used for my daydreams.)
By hermanator33 on January 2, 2017 at 10:15 am
Thank you for sharing such a thoughtful post, Tara!
By Dionna on January 2, 2017 at 10:15 am
Love to daydream while I’m walking outside. My best ideas come then!
By Susanne on January 2, 2017 at 10:16 am
I love this post! Mindfulness has always been key in my life….
By lydialukidis on January 2, 2017 at 10:16 am
Dusting the corners of our imagination often is difficult. Thank you, Tara for reminding us to gear it onto Mindfulness for a thorough clean out.
By Maria Barbella on January 2, 2017 at 10:21 am
What a beautiful post Tara. I do believe chronic illness can sometimes be seen as a gift and you clearly have used yours to understand a level of peace and happiness lost to many. Thank you for this insight!
By lmconnors on January 2, 2017 at 10:25 am
Thank you for inspiring us to let go of life’s worries and to daydream, Tara.
By C.L. Murphy on January 2, 2017 at 10:25 am
Great reminder to balance mindfulness and daydreaming. Thanks!
By Deb McGarvey on January 2, 2017 at 10:28 am
Thank you for sharing! I, too, am a worrier and need to live in the present instead of the land of “what if”. Here’s to a year filled with mindfulness and daydreaming.
By DaNeil Olson on January 2, 2017 at 10:29 am
Tara, you addressed a question I always had when I heard others speak of the value of mindfulness. And that was: What about the seemingly disparate practice of letting your imagination wander. A pretty valuable practice for any of us in the arts. Well done!
By JoAnn DiVerdi on January 2, 2017 at 10:30 am
Thanks Tara – I love the partners in creative living!
By Mary Warth on January 2, 2017 at 10:31 am
I try to practice mindfulness but it is so hard sometimes. My mind constantly goes all over the place. Lately I have been wondering if I do have adult ADHD. 🙂
By Masnoh Wilson on January 2, 2017 at 10:32 am
Wonderful post, Tara. Inspiring and thought provoking. Scheduling time to think is a great idea.
By MD Knabb on January 2, 2017 at 10:32 am
My mind is wandering…away from the computer and looking at the sunshine. Maybe later, an afterward and glossery to finish up. Thankyou so much for the perfect blog to start this Monday! Happy Day to you!
By Linda Carpenter on January 2, 2017 at 10:34 am
Great thoughts to start the year. Thanks, Tara.
By Brianna Zamborsky on January 2, 2017 at 10:34 am
Thanks, Tara, for this inspiring post. I need to set a schedule and stick with it.
By authordebradaugherty on January 2, 2017 at 10:39 am
I just love the elegance of those words…that first paragraph is pure poetry!! I don’t know how I could not be inspired by your message Tara! I love how you just gave me permission to do what I tend to do yet discourage myself from really embracing. In the summer, I find myself doing this on my mower. I actually look forward to mowing so I can allow myself free daydreams. I love those times of mindfulness! Now, I don’t have to feel guilty! Thanks.
By anitajjones on January 2, 2017 at 10:40 am
Mindfully creative. I am a believer. Thanks for sharing~!
By Lori McElrath Eslick on January 2, 2017 at 10:40 am
Excellent advice, Tara! Thank you!
By cindyjohnson2013 on January 2, 2017 at 10:42 am
Thanks so much for the mindful inspiration, Tara! I look forward to many mindless, mindful moments in 2017!
Gabrielle Schoeffield
By Butterfly Kisses and Silly Wishes on January 2, 2017 at 10:43 am
Sooo good, Tara! I actually need to work on both (but mostly the mindfulness!). Thanks so much!
By Joanne Sher on January 2, 2017 at 10:43 am
Thank you Tara for all you do…amazing.
Mindful daydreaming, great suggestion.
By Mark Bentz on January 2, 2017 at 10:45 am
I over this idea! It goes along so wel with some of my resolutions for the year and helps with StoryStorm too. Thank you!
By taracreel on January 2, 2017 at 10:50 am
Thank you, Tara. I use walks as my no-distraction, think time. It’s sometimes my most productive time of the day.
By David McMullin on January 2, 2017 at 10:50 am
I love the idea of being mindfulness of not being mindfulness! Well said!
By Stefanie Hohl on January 2, 2017 at 10:51 am
Thank you Tara. Lots to think about here.
By Midge Ballou Smith on January 2, 2017 at 10:55 am
Thank you Tara – wonderful post! Lots of takeaways here and am especially the fact that some of our greatest challenges offer some of the most meaningful insights.
By Mary Wagley Copp on January 2, 2017 at 10:57 am
Thank you for delving into the intersection of mindfulness and daydreaming.
By Vanessa on January 2, 2017 at 10:58 am
What an insightful post, Tara! Thank you for running this challenge. I look forward to it every year.
By kirsticall on January 2, 2017 at 11:01 am
I have a spot similar to yours outside. It is where I love to do my best writing. I’d be there today if it weren’t pouring down rain.
When I’m brainstorming or daydreaming, I love to color. Coloring has become so popular now and you can find coloring supplies everywhere. I’d encourage everyone to grab their crayons or coloring pencils and give it a try in 2017, too.
By Maria Bostian on January 2, 2017 at 11:01 am
Thanks for the great thoughts, Tara.
By Melissa Koosmann on January 2, 2017 at 11:02 am
My favorite time of day is first thing in the morning when my body is still but my mind is wandering about, exploring freely.
Thanks, Tara, for the post and for creating StoryStorm.
By Jeanne on January 2, 2017 at 11:03 am
I love this! The daydreamer in me feels validated.
By A. P. Alessandri on January 2, 2017 at 11:04 am
Great post to start my morning… Perfect timing. Thank you, Tara.
By Ellen Pridmore on January 2, 2017 at 11:05 am
Mindfulness sounds like a remedy to “the hurrieder I go, the behinder I get.” Thanks, Tara. While I’ve failed at previous attempts, maybe I should try again.
By Jerrianne Hayslett on January 2, 2017 at 11:05 am
Thank you for the inspiration!
By Anna Smith on January 2, 2017 at 11:12 am
My friends who drive tell me that driving is one of their most creative times. Anything that accesses the right brain works.
By reluctantspy on January 2, 2017 at 11:12 am
Great reminder that ideas can come from being mindful and mindless!
By danielledufayet on January 2, 2017 at 11:12 am
What a wonderful and timely post for me this morning! I’m starting the new year with a new daily format which allows time for planning and for pondering. I’m so glad it’s Story Storm time! 🙂
By Beth Gallagher on January 2, 2017 at 11:12 am
Brilliant insights, Tara. Thank you for so generously sharing your life experiences and your advice.
By Paula Zeller on January 2, 2017 at 11:13 am
You are an inspiration, Tara! I love the idea of mindfulness and daydreaming both being helpful in our lives. Good luck to you in 2017.
By Karin Larson on January 2, 2017 at 11:14 am
I agree with AP Alessandri, the daydreamer in me feels validated.
By Nancy Rimar on January 2, 2017 at 11:16 am
Loving the inspiration of StoryStorm so far! Great way to start the new year.
By Andrea Mack on January 2, 2017 at 11:18 am
I love this post, Tara – so timely as we begin the new year. One of my goals for this year is to be more mindful but you’re so right about just letting the mind wander also. Thank you for this!
By Jen Bagan on January 2, 2017 at 11:18 am
I know this–heck, I’m always telling people to be open to the ideas that the universe throws out there–and yet, I’ve been a little lost lately.
Thank you for a great reminder!
By Cathy C. Hall on January 2, 2017 at 11:22 am
That’s so good, Tara. I’ve been struggling with my story, trying to make things fit, and I think what I need is some daydreaming time to let all the pieces come together.
By marcimcadam on January 2, 2017 at 11:25 am
Be mindful of the gold mine of ideas inside while mindlessly minding the daily chores. Thanks!
By Kerry Ariail on January 2, 2017 at 11:28 am
be mindful when daydreaming- love it!
By shanah salter on January 2, 2017 at 11:31 am
I appreciate the reminder to be mindful. Thank you!
By Leah on January 2, 2017 at 11:32 am
I love the way you have captured, in words, exactly how inspiration hits me. Many times I ignore the idea and then it goes away -forever! I will be working toward mining my mind at all times this year 🙂
By Michele Meleen Shields on January 2, 2017 at 11:34 am
I love how you have captured – in words – exactly how inspiration hits me…when I’m least prepared for it! I will be working this year to mine my mind, even in the most inopportune moments. Thanks!
By michelemeleen on January 2, 2017 at 11:35 am
I agree, Tara. My mind loves to escape from the mindless tasks my hands are doing. Best way to solve story problems!
By ManjuBeth on January 2, 2017 at 11:35 am
Mashing mindful meditation and daydreaming together = BRILLIANT!
By topangamaria on January 2, 2017 at 11:39 am
Great post–thank you! I have explored mindfulness, and it has helped me with anxiety. I love how you address the need to NOT be mindful of the present, to let out minds wander–and not feel guilty about it. 🙂 Lots here for me to ponder.
By Tina Barbour on January 2, 2017 at 11:39 am
What a great post! Thank you, Tara, for reminding me of the important balance between mindfulness and daydreaming. Creativity requires both.
By Rita D. Russell on January 2, 2017 at 11:42 am
Thank you Tara, for inspiring so much creativity!
By Doreen E. Lepore on January 2, 2017 at 11:42 am
Great post. I agree that it is important for writers to be both mindful and not mindful when appropriate.
By storyfairy on January 2, 2017 at 11:44 am
Great post!
By Nicole on January 2, 2017 at 11:48 am
Thank you for your wisdom. As a new teacher with three weeks off, I have let my mind wander, usually ideas just pop into my head at the least expected time. Now, to allow this daily when working long hours, that will be a challenge. I like challenges! Ready.
By Beth Casey on January 2, 2017 at 11:48 am
Mindful daydreaming? Okay! I can do that.
By Brittanny Handiboe on January 2, 2017 at 11:49 am
I enjoyed that perspective Tara! I find I get great ideas when my mind is concentrating on something else like kneading bread or taking a shower. And for me, driving is a great time to get headspace to clear up some of those ideas!
By Yvonne Klinksick on January 2, 2017 at 11:50 am
This is a wonderful post and written with such clarity about a hazy and sometimes elusive practice. I also have MS for many years and can identify with those newly diagosed feelings.
By Nina Haines on January 2, 2017 at 11:50 am
Thanks, as always, for your encouragement!
By Melissa on January 2, 2017 at 11:51 am
This is something we’re working on in our home as well. Thanks!
By Johnell DeWitt on January 2, 2017 at 11:52 am
I’m a daydreamer and I have to work at the mindful part 🙂 Thank you, Tara, for this post. I’ve got some balancing to do.
By Charlotte Dixon on January 2, 2017 at 11:52 am
Thanks, Tara. It’s a cloudy day here, a perfect day for drinking tea and letting the mind wander.
By ellenramsey on January 2, 2017 at 11:52 am
Thank you for sharing your insights with us, Tara. It’s good to be reminded that both daydreaming and mindfulness are important parts of the writer’s life.
By evelynchristensen on January 2, 2017 at 11:53 am
I started to panic past week when I found myself starting at a wall for awhile. Lots of thinking and no doing. It sounds like I should actual schedule thinking and not doing anything time. 🙂
By Leah Perlongo on January 2, 2017 at 11:56 am
Yes, Yes, Yes. Because I kept noticing that important ideas came to me when doing something else, I started wearing clothes with pockets so I could have paper and pen ready.
By Karen Henry Clark on January 2, 2017 at 11:57 am
Fascinating idea – pairing mindfulness with daydreaming. A good goal for the entire year!
By wyszguy on January 2, 2017 at 12:07 pm
Thanks, Tara. I’ve tried to be mindful in the past. This is a great reminder to be more consistent.
By notewordies on January 2, 2017 at 12:09 pm
Thanks, Tara. I’m good at daydreaming, but I need to up my mindfulness.
By kathydoherty1 on January 2, 2017 at 12:11 pm
What a wonderful post, Tara! One of my goals this year is to be present, body and mind!
By Vanessa Roeder on January 2, 2017 at 12:13 pm
Wonderful post. Mindfulness and daydreaming are important parts of the writing puzzle.
By cmwritergirl23 on January 2, 2017 at 12:13 pm
Thank you. Very well inspirational.
By August Washington on January 2, 2017 at 12:14 pm
I am mindful, unmindful, daydreamer , and all around crazy thinker at all times!!! What FUN I have writing my stories 😄
By Karen Lawler on January 2, 2017 at 12:18 pm
The ying to the yang – thanks so much Tara for a great post, but also even more so for running Storystorm!
By dbyatt on January 2, 2017 at 12:18 pm
Thank you, Tara! Your post is filled with sage advice.
By Cathy Ogren on January 2, 2017 at 12:19 pm
I love it, Tara. “Free your mind to go on an adventure.” Yes! Here’s to adventuring!
By jJane Heitman Healu on January 2, 2017 at 12:21 pm
As always, thanks for your generosity, Tara!
By CindyC on January 2, 2017 at 12:30 pm
Inspiring and encouraging. Thank you, Tara.
By Judy Bryan on January 2, 2017 at 12:30 pm
Tara, your post is on target!
By Van G. Garrett on January 2, 2017 at 12:31 pm
Great post!
By Nicole on January 2, 2017 at 12:31 pm
I will be mindful of making time and space to daydream.
By JenFW on January 2, 2017 at 12:31 pm
Tara, thanks for laying this out so beautifully!. As a woman in my sixties–and a lifelong daydeamer!–I’ve come to understand these concepts well, but I really feel that everyone needs to hear it. Not just us writers!
By Christine on January 2, 2017 at 12:32 pm
I love your “brick oven”! It looks so warm and inviting! Thank you for sharing Tara!
By Megan Cason on January 2, 2017 at 12:33 pm
Tara…with this incredible post you’ve answered a question I have had for the longest time…occasionally, I get tachycardia…my heart goes from 70 beats a minutes to 163, in the space of a split second…and stays like that, pounding away, sometimes for hours. The docs say it is nothing serious…but I’ve noticed that it’s happened several times while I am doing laundry. So odd, I thought…but now I’ve read your post and I think I understand. Doing laundry is one of those tasks where I should allow my mind to relax and wander…but instead, those times this jazzed up heartbeat occured, I was THINKING/PLANNING what I needed to do for the rest of the day…I was not letting my mind get it’s necessary dose of daydream.
My takeaway: Mindfulness and daydreaming are partners in creative living.
You are the best and I’m just so excited to be participating in STORYSTORM.
By viviankirkfield on January 2, 2017 at 12:35 pm
A lot to think about! Thanks for the great post.
By Linda Staszak on January 2, 2017 at 12:35 pm
Thanks, Tara. I love to daydream. Sometimes, I think I daydream too much.
By Janet Smart on January 2, 2017 at 12:36 pm
If you stare mindfully at a crystal ball, it may not give you any accurate answers about the future. But you can daydream about how you would want the future to be…or the present…or the past…or as yet some unknown time-dimension…
By 8catpaws on January 2, 2017 at 12:37 pm
I loved this post Tara! You are so right about the ever present reminders to be mindful all around us. I never thought about the way daydreaming fit in but every word you wrote makes perfect sense. I’m hoping for a New Year filled with both.
By Ashley on January 2, 2017 at 12:41 pm
Daydreaming always inspires my writing. Great post!
By Alice Fulgione on January 2, 2017 at 12:43 pm
Mindful is a great “One Word” for 2017. So is daydream!
By Kristi Veitenheimer on January 2, 2017 at 12:44 pm
Thank you for this great post, Tara!
By Heather Merrill on January 2, 2017 at 12:46 pm
I struggle with being intentionally mindful, so I appreciate your advice!
By Cathy Ballou Mealey on January 2, 2017 at 12:47 pm
What a great way to start the year, daydreaming of possibilities. Thank you Tara.
By Cassie Bentley on January 2, 2017 at 12:49 pm
Your post reminded me of the Beatles “Fixing a Hole” Lyrics. I admire your mindfulness approach to your MS and how you incorporated that into your life, and into this post.
By jeanjames926 on January 2, 2017 at 12:49 pm
After the busy holidays filled with to-do lists, it’s wonderful to have permission to think.
By Daryl Gottier on January 2, 2017 at 12:50 pm
A wonderful post that I really need to take to heart. I find that my mind is so cluttered that often everything becomes one big jumble of what I have to do next. Thank you!!
By ellenleventhal on January 2, 2017 at 12:51 pm
“Be mindful of when you are not mindful” = love it! Thanks for the inspiration and wisdom, Tara!
By Gabi Snyder on January 2, 2017 at 12:51 pm
Thanks Tara! We all need to find our brick ovens.
By Heather Elizabeth on January 2, 2017 at 12:53 pm
Mindfulness v. Mindlessness .. unfortunately the middle part is lost …full v. Less… as we rush through our lives with too much information and instant bombardment/notification/ gratification from digital sources.
By Dana Wu on January 2, 2017 at 12:54 pm
Thanks for a great post, Tara. Now revising my self-diagnosis of ‘attention deficit’ to ‘attention abundance’.
By Stephanie Shaw on January 2, 2017 at 12:54 pm
Thank you for helpful insight I can understand and relate to.
By Pat Gramling on January 2, 2017 at 12:56 pm
While running errands this morning I kept the radio “off” in my car so that I could use that time to think. It worked! Each time I stopped the car I jotted down notes for a story.
By Susan Nicholas on January 2, 2017 at 12:56 pm
I needed this post. And I had to share it with my critique group, too. So awesome. now to be mindful of not being mindful. 🙂
By JEN Garrett on January 2, 2017 at 1:00 pm
Good advice usually has a paradox at its core. Now, just have to figure out the best balance of mindfulness and daydreaming…
By Mary Worley on January 2, 2017 at 1:01 pm
I love the photograph of the face in the tree. It perfectly embodies your ideas on mindfullness vs. wandering. Love it all! I am practicing this balance for the New Year.
By Stephanie Oplinger on January 2, 2017 at 1:02 pm
Beautiful post, Tara. Thank you for permission to daydream!
By AJ Irving on January 2, 2017 at 1:07 pm
Allowing myself to daydream about my stories during routine chores this past year has had the added benefit of making me not dread chores so much! Now I can go forward and daydream with purpose, thank you for that Tara!
By ingridboydston on January 2, 2017 at 1:08 pm
Thanks, Tara! Daydreaming, allowing my mind to wander and wonder . . . I will definitely try to do more of this in 2017.
By ammwrite3 on January 2, 2017 at 1:08 pm
Beautiful post, Tara. Thank you for permission to daydream!
By ajschildrensbooks on January 2, 2017 at 1:08 pm
Love this, Tara.
By Rachel Hamby on January 2, 2017 at 1:10 pm
Thank you, Tara. What a wonderful post on the beauty of just “thinking.” Mindfulness might just be my 2017 word of the year.
By Susan Latta on January 2, 2017 at 1:10 pm
This is wonderful. I’m forwarding it to my writer friends!
By Darcie Durr on January 2, 2017 at 1:13 pm
Excellent article. I’m a Shin Buddhist and find mindfulness helps tremendously with clarity and creativity.
By Bonnie Ferrante on January 2, 2017 at 1:15 pm
Thanks, Tara. For all you do and for helping me find a mind full of possibilities!
By Shari Della Penna on January 2, 2017 at 1:16 pm
Wonderful post and that brick oven is awesome. I shall seek for that place this year!
By Shirley Ng-Benitez on January 2, 2017 at 1:17 pm
And to think as a child in school I’d get marked down for daydreaming.
By Gail Maki Wilson on January 2, 2017 at 1:19 pm
I love daydreaming and do find some great ideas there! How wonderful that something that kept me in trouble as a kid is so valuable to writing!
By Cindi Handley Goodeaux on January 2, 2017 at 1:23 pm
Just when I was thinking that I didn’t have time to fold clothes … I never thought about using that time to daydream. Love this post!
By Kristin Wauson on January 2, 2017 at 1:23 pm
Today is the perfect day to let my mind wander and just “be.” Thank you.
By Jennifer Raudenbush on January 2, 2017 at 1:27 pm
Hmmm. There are always new things people want us to look at, read, or focus on but sometimes we need to look within. I’m not sure what current catch phrase that subscribes to… but maybe the answers are already there and we just have to listen.
By loriannlevyholm on January 2, 2017 at 1:28 pm
Mindfulness has become quite a thing in my school board–how it affects learners and can be a great educational tool. Very cool stuff.
By Laurie Lascos on January 2, 2017 at 1:28 pm
Being in the present moment reminds me of all I am grateful for. No looking back at the “wish I would haves” from last year, but forward to 2017 and the creativity that comes to me naturally when I let my mind wander. Thank you for sharing Tara!
By Heather Kelso on January 2, 2017 at 1:30 pm
Great post, Tara! I have been “Mindful daydreaming” for years… I just didn’t know what it was called! Whenever I have a problem with one of my manuscripts I head outside to garden. There is something about working the soil with my bare hands that lets my mind wander and 9 times out of 10 the answer will soon pop into my mind.
I also have a “brick oven” bench on my porch and find that going out early in the morning before the sun comes up and the day yawns itself awake is when I get my best ideas. I close my eyes and listen to the sounds around me as I breathe deeply of all its smells. Thank you for giving us permission to sit and daydream. Now when someone asks me what I’m doing I will not reply “just gooning” but can honestly say that I’m “mindful daydreaming.”
By saputnam on January 2, 2017 at 1:32 pm
Here’s to ponderizing mindfulness! Cheers!
By Amanda on January 2, 2017 at 1:33 pm
Yes, suffering thinking about how I’ll be suffering sometime down the road. Been there, still do that occasionally. Thanks for the reminder to stop, smell the roses, and get to work!
By Jilanne Hoffmann on January 2, 2017 at 1:33 pm
Thank you, Tara. Cheers to mindfulness and daydreaming!
By katmaz2012 on January 2, 2017 at 1:35 pm
I find it difficult to be mindful, but I’m working on it. Thanks, Tara! 💖
By Holly Ruppel on January 2, 2017 at 1:35 pm
I totally agree with the value of letting your mind wander during routine tasks that need a different kind of brain power. Some of the most interesting ideas seem to emerge during these moments. Thanks for the reminder!
By Jennifer Phillips on January 2, 2017 at 1:36 pm
Love this, Tara. Multi-tasking overload can wreck creativity and the enjoyment of simple tasks. Daydreaming rules – must be why so many great ideas happen while taking a shower.
By Mary on January 2, 2017 at 1:36 pm
This is beautiful, inspiring and so true. Thank you, Tara. You are using your diagnosis in such a positive way.
By Carleen M. Tjader on January 2, 2017 at 1:36 pm
This a great post and reminder to be mindful. Thanks Tara!
P.S. I hope you are feeling better.
By Zainab on January 2, 2017 at 1:38 pm
What a wise gem. It feels like you opened your heart and palm and offered us a safe place to reclaim who we are and what we want to do with our precious lives. We need mindfulness to weather the storm. A place to float above, below, around, and through the chaos. Thanks for being our zen master!
By Deb Lund on January 2, 2017 at 1:42 pm
Thank you, Tara, for this thought provoking post. It’s so helpful to read how other writers think. Several of my stories were started or almost completely written when I took myself out to lunch. I have no responsibilities at the restaurant so my mind is free to wander and create.
By Karen Dean on January 2, 2017 at 1:45 pm
Thank you for sharing these words of wisdom to help me expand my creative brainstorming ideas and to release my mind-full busyness. I am also mindful it took a deep personal journey for you to experience your path’s unfolding, Tara, so I thank you most sincerely for sharing.
By Meli Glickman on January 2, 2017 at 1:47 pm
Thank you, Tara, for being an inspiration. I am grateful for this mindful community you’ve created. Now to find my brick oven for baking ideas!
By tiemdow on January 2, 2017 at 1:47 pm
I love to daydream, and will now try to make sure I make special time for it! Thanks for the idea spark.
By Lisa Katzenberger on January 2, 2017 at 1:49 pm
I appreciate this post so much! I feel it is very easy to lose my mindfulness, especially during the busy holiday season.
By Brenda Maier on January 2, 2017 at 1:50 pm
Thanks for this post on mindfulness and daydreaming; knowing they both work wonders for creativity. Thanks Tara for organizing (now Storystorm) this group and the valuable knowledge on writing annually.
By nabinava on January 2, 2017 at 1:57 pm
Thank you for the reminder to be mindful and the permission to daydream–both essential for writing!
By kathrynjeanhagen on January 2, 2017 at 1:59 pm
Agreed. Awww the lost art of daydreaming
By Zeena Pliska on January 2, 2017 at 1:59 pm
Wow! These first two posts have been incredible. Thank you for pointing out the importance of mindfulness. There is so much to take away from this post.
By Cathy Breisacher on January 2, 2017 at 2:00 pm
Lovely reflection Tara. Often as kids we were told to pay attention, not to daydream. In fact both are important. Excellent reminder!
By Keila Dawson on January 2, 2017 at 2:01 pm
I agree, mindfulness is something I need to be more aware of. it helps to have that idea reinforced.
By Debra Katz on January 2, 2017 at 2:02 pm
Thank you, Tara, for the reminder. I’m often guilty of packing my day so full that I forget to dream. I’m making a pact with myself to take time from day and those I care for during the day to sit in my favorite spot outside and just let my mind wander around “the good stuff”!
By dfrybarger on January 2, 2017 at 2:03 pm
Mindful…wander…mindful…wander… Yeah, I like that! Thanks, Tara.
By carolmunrojww on January 2, 2017 at 2:06 pm
Love this Tara! I love to daydream, but recently, other thoughts cut into my daydreaming time (i.e. chores, errands,etc). I will really try to keep my daydreaming time separate.
By Sam Altmann on January 2, 2017 at 2:08 pm
Setting time aside to dwell on what I want from writing (and life) is exactly what I need to be doing. This is a great post, just what I needed to hear. As to daydreaming, my mind wanders a fair bit as it is. LOL!
By KatieFrey on January 2, 2017 at 2:09 pm
Like many of us, I’m a professional future worrier too. I was fortunate to be a participant in a local medical center’s MBSR study for people with chronic back pain. We did gentle yoga and meditation. I had one completely pain free day. I felt like a rubberized seven year old again! It’s not ‘all in our heads,’ but we do have a vast untapped resource up there. Now, if I could only let it wander towards the seeds and sprouts rather than the slings and arrows. Will try, try, try with the help of my friends. Thanks, Tara.
By Wendy Wahman on January 2, 2017 at 2:09 pm
I so agree, Tara! Especially in our culture which seems to value multi-tasking–it’s totally contrary to both mindfulness & daydreaming, that’s for sure. And I love that tree photo–just stunning! Thank you!!
By mariagianferrari on January 2, 2017 at 2:16 pm
When I was a kid in school I was told to stop daydreaming. I’m so glad that I can now daydream without guilt or worry. Something I daydream about might become the idea for a book. So, no matter what, keep daydreaming. We now have permission to keep at it.
By betlw on January 2, 2017 at 2:17 pm
I like driving in a quiet car–best time for my creative mind to wander.
By Susan Cabael on January 2, 2017 at 2:18 pm
I agree 1000%. Creativity flourishes when mindfulness is balanced by daydreaming. I normally say that I work out my creative problem-solving when walking the dog, but I’m finding more recently that sitting and talking aloud (to myself or the dog) is working better.
By Vita Lane on January 2, 2017 at 2:22 pm
Thank you for this, Tara! A wonderful post! This vacation I had to drive from PA to New Haven, CT and hit hours worth of traffic. But I actually loved the time to think. No new story ideas came to me, but I did think a lot about my career. And, while reading your post today, I did have a picture book idea!!! Thank you for the inspiration!!! PS–I love your Brick Oven! I may need to try this myself as we have a similar nook : )
By Virginia Law Manning on January 2, 2017 at 2:24 pm
This post resonates with me. Thank you for the reminder to be mindful about our writing, and the importance of taking time to daydream!
By laurensoloy on January 2, 2017 at 2:24 pm
Wonderful post, Tara! Mindfulness and daydreaming do go together.
By Traci Sorell on January 2, 2017 at 2:33 pm
Mindfulness has definitely been something I’ve discovered this last year. It’s helped with all areas of my life and I’m excited for the possibilities of what can come from inspiration and daydreaming.
By Annaliese Arnold on January 2, 2017 at 2:33 pm
Thanks for giving me permission to daydream!
By Pia Garneau on January 2, 2017 at 2:33 pm
So nice to have a job where daydreaming is not only allowed… but encouraged! Searching for my own brick oven today!
By artsyandi on January 2, 2017 at 2:35 pm
Tara thank you for the post😊 My wandering mind is going to get my crayons and color🌈
By Janie Reinart on January 2, 2017 at 2:35 pm
What an honest, open, lovely post! Thank you for sharing Tara!
By Cassandra Federman (@CassFederman) on January 2, 2017 at 2:39 pm
Yes! Exercise is great for getting the ideas flowing too. Thanks for the post and StoryStorm Tara!
By Kristen Schroeder (@KLSchroed) on January 2, 2017 at 2:41 pm
So inspiring. Thank you for creating storystorm and allowing even newbys like me a chance to be part of something amazing!
By Victoria Wirkkala on January 2, 2017 at 2:43 pm
I’ve found myself getting caught up with what “could be” when I’m around my children. Mindful of my moments with them but allow myself to imagine. Thanks for sharing Tara.
By Dina Ticas on January 2, 2017 at 2:43 pm
Yup. I was cleaning the kitchen today, glanced at some mushrooms and thought of a story idea. You just never know where inspiration will grab you.
By Julie on January 2, 2017 at 2:43 pm
The brick oven, wonderful. I have a cubby hole but it gets rather cold in the winter. Thanks Tara.
By rjtraxel on January 2, 2017 at 2:44 pm
Knowing when mindfulness is necessary is a very important…as well as when it’s not…
By Patricia Alcaro on January 2, 2017 at 2:44 pm
This is spot on! I have had severe RA for 13 years now. Being mindful is essential for me to get the most out of my life, or else I will slip into a pity pain party forever. 🙂 Which sometimes I do for a few days and then pick myself up! This June I started with hives and swelling and they still haven’t figured out what is going on. All I do is see doctors and endure endless tests every week. Being mindful has been extremely challenging during this time because I don’t know how to do ‘itch’ and I am frustrated with the docs. Anyway…Tara said to take November off. I thought this was ridiculous until halfway through, I realized she was right. I couldn’t write anything good and was struggling to be happy and creative. I put that energy into time with my family and doctors. Then I continued it into December. So now, I am back and ready to handle the itch, docs and my writing! I’m still frustrated, but I know I can figure out how to make a little time to give to me. Thank goodness for cortisone. And thanks for posting this, Tara! I don’t feel so alone…
By mariaordish on January 2, 2017 at 3:01 pm
Ah, the multi facets of mindfullness…
By Poupette Smith on January 2, 2017 at 3:05 pm
Thanks for the encouragement. I have been trying to pay attention to what’s around to find ideas.
By Darcee Freier on January 2, 2017 at 3:11 pm
Loved this! Thanks.
By Debra Shumaker on January 2, 2017 at 3:17 pm
Thank you, Tara, for your thoughtful and generous post that is, no doubt, benefiting many. I find also that yoga meditation also enhances, not only calmness and focus, but creativity as well. It’s all about slowing down those racing thoughts and letting them watch a cloud turn into an elephant and then a dancer.
By Anne Bromley on January 2, 2017 at 3:17 pm
Being present, being mindful–such wonderful reminders. Thank you Tara! (Ironic how some of my best daydreaming/plotting moments come while doing the laundry!)
By yangmommy on January 2, 2017 at 3:18 pm
I struggle so much with mindfulness and the itch to quell boredom by scrolling – really hoping to turn to writing and brainstorming more through this month of mental wandering! Thanks for the opportunity!
By Courtney Hanna-McNamara on January 2, 2017 at 3:19 pm
Thank you, Tara! Great insights!
By Elizabeth Brown on January 2, 2017 at 3:20 pm
Loved the post! I’m going try being mindful of when I’m not being mindful, as suggested.
By Rebecca Colby on January 2, 2017 at 3:22 pm
Tara, I like the idea that mindfulness and daydreaming are not adversaries. The older I get, the more I realize the power and importance of living in the present and enjoying it. At the same time, I believe my writing and budding ability to relax (could retire have something to do with this?) are equally as important. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on both of these. Rita
By ritakenefic on January 2, 2017 at 3:23 pm
Thanks for the reminder not to stress out about “lost time.” Tara, you’re in inspiration!
By Robin Brett Wechsler on January 2, 2017 at 3:25 pm
Tara, today’s post is the perfect springboard for Storystorm! A year ago, I started taking yoga class and it has had a profound effect on me in many ways including mindfulness and creativity. I look forward to the daily posts and advice and am ready to dive in head first into the storm of creative writing.
By Rebecca E. Guzinski on January 2, 2017 at 3:27 pm
Great post—going off to daydream!
By Buffy Silverman on January 2, 2017 at 3:30 pm
I like the face tree photo!
By Andrea Lawson on January 2, 2017 at 3:31 pm
Be here now….and, sometimes, not so much. Let her roll! Looking for that balance. Thanks, Tara!
By harmonee2014 on January 2, 2017 at 3:33 pm
Cheers to mindfullness!
By Katie Giorgio on January 2, 2017 at 3:33 pm
Tara, thank you for sharing this post. I was told to practice mindfulness after I suffered a stroke in 2011. While it can be difficult to focus on the present and turn off the constant noise in your head, it is extremely beneficial. This post really hit a nerve with me. Thank you for all you do for the kidlit community!
By jennagrodzicki on January 2, 2017 at 3:35 pm
Today I am doing nothing but sitting in my big easy chair, pondering STORYSTORM, working on gratitude lists, starting an agent research page, and also allowing myself to stare into space and daydream. I so rarely do this sort of thing, but it may be the missing link. Thanks for your insights, Tara.
By F. G. M. Kalavritinos on January 2, 2017 at 3:42 pm
Thanks Tara, and congratulations on the move to StoryStorm. Great name!
By anitanolan on January 2, 2017 at 3:45 pm
Enjoyed the post. Life without Mindfulness and without Daydreaming would be difficult. Balance seems to be the key.
By Rachel Critchley on January 2, 2017 at 3:45 pm
Wonderful points here, Tara! Mindful when it matters. Love this. Thank you.
By kimchaffee1007 on January 2, 2017 at 3:49 pm
Thanks, Tara!
By LIsa R. on January 2, 2017 at 3:49 pm
I love the idea of StoryStorm, Tara! Bless you for not letting your diagnosis of MS pollute your mind but rather to become more mindful and a better daydreamer. You are an inspiration to us all.
By Barbara Cairns on January 2, 2017 at 3:49 pm
Thank you for discussing the opposing but very related ideas of mindfulness and daydreaming! And thank you for STORYSTORM! Now to daydream a bit…
By denarose on January 2, 2017 at 3:53 pm
Mindfulness is so important. Thank you for highlighting how it can lead to more impactful storytelling.
By Holly Samson Hall on January 2, 2017 at 3:57 pm
I love your “brick oven” spot for thinking and daydreaming. I may have to create something similar. For now, my brick ovens are walks and looking out my office window at the wonders of nature. Thanks for the inspirational post.
By Janet Halfmann on January 2, 2017 at 3:59 pm
I’m terrible at switching my brain off and always daydreaming so this works for me! I’m also terrible at dwelling in the past so living more in the present is so important to me. Love the idea of mindful daydreaming.
By Christine on January 2, 2017 at 3:59 pm
You are a strong woman to keep moving forward, even with obstacles in the way. Thank you for the reminder to take time to slow down in this busy world and just think.
By Sharon Nix Jones on January 2, 2017 at 4:02 pm
Reminder of Mindfulness- An “aha moment” as we join Tara in the daily practice of awareness. Thank you Tara for developing StoryStorm….very exciting! Happy New Year Everyone!
By Linda on January 2, 2017 at 4:02 pm
Thanks! I almost feel bad about my plans to watch a movie now… but I’ll do it mindfully. 🙂
By Stephan Stuecklin on January 2, 2017 at 4:04 pm
Yes, some of my best writing ideas come when I am not at a computer, but out for a walk in nature or gardening. Sometimes you have to let the stresses of the everyday world go. Thanks for the reminder, Tara, that everyone needs time “off” from our busy minds.
By Lisa Gerin on January 2, 2017 at 4:04 pm
Oh my goodness an hour talking to Tara. That’s incredible. Thanks again for reminding us of how to be mindful.
By Julie Grasso on January 2, 2017 at 4:04 pm
I’m about to let my mind wander as I start cleaning my bathrooms in a second here. 😀 Maybe I’ll get my day 2 idea…
By Teresa Robeson on January 2, 2017 at 4:05 pm
Super post. I love how you point out that mindfulness and daydreaming are both laudable pursuits and how both promote creativity and success. Now, I’m off to find out where my ‘brick oven’ will be for 2017 🙂
By Kidlit Tidbits (@KidlitTidbits) on January 2, 2017 at 4:10 pm
Great post!
By Robyn McGrath on January 2, 2017 at 4:10 pm
Appreciate the reminder to daydream….Thanks!
By Edward BIGGS on January 2, 2017 at 4:11 pm
I love your explanation of mindfulness and mindwandering and how they both enhance writing!
By marylouisealucurto on January 2, 2017 at 4:12 pm
Love.
By Kerrie on January 2, 2017 at 4:18 pm
Great post! Thanks, Tara!
By Sheri Dillard on January 2, 2017 at 4:19 pm
Wow! What a powerful post, Tara! We’re up to 4″ of rain thus far today with much more expected. It’s a perfect segue-way into that mind wandering-mindfulness and imagining frame of thinking. Thank you!
By Anne Iverson on January 2, 2017 at 4:26 pm
I spent years as a child in a hospital for crippled children, where I learned both skills you talked about, Tara. Valuable skills I treasure today, although learning them wasn’t always fun!
By Sherry Howard on January 2, 2017 at 4:26 pm
Someone said boredom makes you more mindful. It’s proven scientifically.
By sussuleclerc on January 2, 2017 at 4:29 pm
This was exactly what I needed to hear today. Thanks, Tara.
By rgstones on January 2, 2017 at 4:30 pm
My best ideas usually come to me in the shower. Being mindful is much more difficult than letting the mind wander, but ever so important.
By Caren L Cantrell on January 2, 2017 at 4:31 pm
Thank you for reminding me that it is okay to daydream and let my mind wander. When I take the time to reflect (less and less frequently it seems) I am so much more mentally healthy when I allow my mind some time to just be.
By R.J. Koehn on January 2, 2017 at 4:37 pm
One of my heroes was Nikola Tesla. He would sit for hours just thinking, then would write down anything he remembered because it was “important”.
I love the idea of daydreaming and being mindful. It is important to remember that the process of being mindful and daydreaming looks different for everyone. I often don’t just sit and think, but am actively engaging my mind in the mundane, concrete or stimulating (yet simple) activities while i am processing other ideas. Then I can stop anytime to write it down without worry of interrupting anything “important”.
By matthewlasley on January 2, 2017 at 4:38 pm
The daydreamer in me salutes the daydreamer in you! Thanks for this inspired post, Tara!
By Joana Pastro on January 2, 2017 at 4:39 pm
I love the challenge to spend 10 hours a week just thinking. Time to fill the journal.
By familystufftodo on January 2, 2017 at 4:40 pm
Some of my best ideas have come from daydreaming in the shower. LOL! Great post. Now to work on today’s story idea.
By Pam Zollman on January 2, 2017 at 4:44 pm
Love the idea of thinking time. Will apply it to my writing and my job. Thanks for the link too – very useful.
By katharinederrick on January 2, 2017 at 4:49 pm
I had to read this twice because I was daydreaming. Nice post!
By Craig Pines on January 2, 2017 at 4:49 pm
Mindfulness and mindlessness and mind-writing and losing my mind are all hand in hand in my mind. Yeah. We’re ready for anything over here.
By Genevieve Petrillo on January 2, 2017 at 4:49 pm
Thank you, Tara. Such good news that ideas are not only found under couch cushions or buried somewhere in the backyard but also in the nooks and crannies between mindfulness and daydreams. I love that.
By Rachel Somoano on January 2, 2017 at 4:52 pm
Love the advice and taking it willingly and mindfully to practice! 🙂
By rosiepova on January 2, 2017 at 4:53 pm
Excellent post, Tara. Perfect time of year, too, as so many thoughts and goals ramble through the brain.
By ccmalandrinos (@ccmalandrinos) on January 2, 2017 at 4:55 pm
Your post underscores how the personal (grounded with specifics) is powerful as it speaks to the universal. Thank you for grounding your lessons in meaningful details.
-jenna
By moviemommie on January 2, 2017 at 4:55 pm
Great post! Thank you!
By Ashley Bankhead on January 2, 2017 at 4:57 pm
This is SO true! In this technology driven age, we just don’t know how to “chill out” any more. I heard some expert once say that we don’t allow for time to be “bored” any more. There’s always a game or app to occupy our time and attention (and mind). This is why I try to do the same thing as you and allow for time to let my brain to wander. I try to turn off the iphone, computer, ipad or whatever to do it too. That’s where the real magic happens!
By jenabenton on January 2, 2017 at 4:59 pm
How eloquent and thought provoking! When we truly have mindful daydreaming, we re-enter the world of a child!
By Lucy Staugler on January 2, 2017 at 4:59 pm
This was a great read, Tara. Thank you for sharing! I’ve considered taking a”mindful meditation” class and your article is pushing me to sign up!!
By Jamie Nanfara on January 2, 2017 at 5:01 pm
Thank you so much Tara! Your positivity, enthusiasm, and drive are an inspiration to me! It’s a privilege to be participating in this amazing brain child of yours for the second time around now.
By Katelyn Aronson on January 2, 2017 at 5:05 pm
I was going to send you a mindful comment, but I feel a daydream coming on, so I’m going to have to refocus my attention to it. Please pass the brownies.
By Mary McClellan on January 2, 2017 at 5:09 pm
So spot-on! There are times when everything else must move aside and the mind needs quiet; there are other times when creativity craves chaos! Thanks for the post, Tara!
By Juliann Caveny on January 2, 2017 at 5:12 pm
To be a mindful daydreamer? I love the concept of perculating ideas while going about all those mindless chores that nibble at our precious time. Thank you. T
By tanjabauerle on January 2, 2017 at 5:16 pm
I agree with this article and have found peace
where I used to struggle with the intermingling of mindfulness and my loosely goosey thoughts. It is all a part of the journey to our best self.
By authorstephanievanhorn on January 2, 2017 at 5:18 pm
Great post! I think being mindful about what we want out of our writing careers will help us to avoid taking writing gigs that really won’t help us to get where we want to be.
By Ashley Franklin on January 2, 2017 at 5:19 pm
Thanks Tara, I have had some of my best ideas while taking a shower!!
By Catherine F on January 2, 2017 at 5:22 pm
Great post, Tara! sometimes when doing the dishes I am mindful; sometimes empty-mind. The trick is to find balance and not fill the mind (mind-full) so much there is no room for imagination.
By Sue Heavenrich on January 2, 2017 at 5:22 pm
My kindergarten report card said I daydreamed too much during class. I consider it one of my proudest academic moments. Great post, Tara!
By Francis S. Poesy on January 2, 2017 at 5:24 pm
Great food for thought. The balance between mindfulness and…mindlessness (ha) is an important one!
By Paul Orsino on January 2, 2017 at 5:42 pm
You clearly covered the value of being mindful, and also not being mindful, and also being mindful of not being mindful, and …. I guess that was it. Thanks Tara.
By Jim Chaize on January 2, 2017 at 5:43 pm
Thanks Tara!
By bonzerb on January 2, 2017 at 5:44 pm
Thank you for a great post! I practice meditation and mindfulness, but we do need to let our minds wander and play.
By Janine Johns on January 2, 2017 at 5:51 pm
Love the juxtaposition between mindfulness and daydreaming.
By sadeeschilling on January 2, 2017 at 5:53 pm
Excellent advice–another post I’ll be referring back to again and again. Thank you!
By Melanie Lucero on January 2, 2017 at 5:54 pm
Thank you for the inspiration and for taking on StoryStorm.
By Sandy on January 2, 2017 at 5:59 pm
I woke up this morning with a story idea- not complete, but some good possibilities. Daydreams are good- night dreams work, too! Also want to say, I love the switch to January- a time for new beginnings and fresh starts. Happy writing, everybody!
By Bethany Roberts on January 2, 2017 at 6:03 pm
Thoughtful post! Important reminder! Thanks, Tara!
By Nancy Ramsey on January 2, 2017 at 6:06 pm
Mindfulness teamed with daydreaming. Great advise Tara. Ask Me Anything prize, my fingers are crossed! 🙏🏻😍
By Ali Earle Pichardo on January 2, 2017 at 6:06 pm
Tara, Thanks so much for shepherding this month of inspiration and creativity. This post reminds me that mindfulness and daydreaming are important for us as writers (and people!) as well as for the kids for whom we write.
By amievc on January 2, 2017 at 6:13 pm
How I love these posts. Thanks, Tara.
By Kaye Baillie on January 2, 2017 at 6:17 pm
Your brick oven looks like a great place to let ideas find you. Thank you for Storystorm!
By Kathleen Wilcox on January 2, 2017 at 6:20 pm
My problem is I am too mindful when I need to be mineful. Thanks Tara.
By Sherry Alexander on January 2, 2017 at 6:24 pm
Thank you Tara for the wonderful advice and reminder to be mindful without neglecting the wandering mind!
By mnoiset on January 2, 2017 at 6:31 pm
I mindfully opened a foil-wrapped square of Dove dark chocolate as I read your post, and I just let it slowly dissolve as I savored its goodness, and yours. Thanks, Tara!
By Pat Miller on January 2, 2017 at 6:31 pm
Thank you, Tara, for your informational article and all of your efforts. Mind set, I am storm ready.
By judyrubin13 on January 2, 2017 at 6:36 pm
Thanks, Tara. I’m working hard at trying to free up my mind. It gets stuck in the mundane worries. Trying to keep my daydreaming more child-like.
By Kay Deans on January 2, 2017 at 6:36 pm
A great reminder, Tara. Thanks!
By Lori Alexander on January 2, 2017 at 6:38 pm
I see what you mean. We need to be mindful to let our minds run free. It is much like yin (negative) and yang (positive). We need equal amounts of both to lead a balanced life. We also need them both to understand them both. It is hard to grasp the positive if we have never experienced it.
Thank you for reminding me about this.
By Danielle on January 2, 2017 at 6:40 pm
Daydreaming is one of my favorites! As I have gotten older I have tried to stop myself, but sometimes you need it!
By Misschappell on January 2, 2017 at 6:40 pm
Inspiration is one of my favorite things to talk about with others. I need to make more time to be mindful and more time to daydream. Thank you, Tara!
By Nicki Jacobsmeyer on January 2, 2017 at 6:41 pm
Mindfulness rocks. Thanks for sharing your insights, Tara
By Barbara Messinger on January 2, 2017 at 6:44 pm
Thanks for continuing with Storystorm despite your difficult year. You’re an inspiration. Prayers
By Carolyn on January 2, 2017 at 6:47 pm
Thoughtful post. Yes, let’s pair them up, mindfulness and dreaming. It cut’s both ways
By Priya on January 2, 2017 at 6:49 pm
Day 2 idea on paper – a little ready for the whole Visiting/Visitor thing from the holidays to end so I can focus on this! Staying mindful of the joys of family!
By Robin Currie on January 2, 2017 at 6:52 pm
Mindfulness/Daydreaming, perhaps a delicate balance, perhaps not. Don’t worry about how, just let it flow. Thanks, Tara, for your finest post yet.
By Lucky Jo Boscarino on January 2, 2017 at 6:53 pm
Melding of mindfulness and daydreaming – I like it!
By Melanie Ellsworth on January 2, 2017 at 6:58 pm
I love the idea of daydreaming. It’s where all my best ideas have come from.
By Pamela Valentine on January 2, 2017 at 7:05 pm
Thank you Tara for this post and for putting so much into Storystorm for all of us.
By mona861 on January 2, 2017 at 7:05 pm
The part about advanced technology and being more productive and efficient really hit home! Deep sighs as I think about this great piece of advice to be more mindful. Thank you.
By Michelle Andersen on January 2, 2017 at 7:15 pm
You can count on me to to mine the mind! Love it.
By teresa m.i. schaefer (@TMISchaefer) on January 2, 2017 at 7:16 pm
Thank you for the wonderful post, Tara!!! So excited to participate in Storystorm! I used to daydream all the time, definitely need to make more time for it 🙂
By Martin Segal on January 2, 2017 at 7:21 pm
Tara, thank you so much for your thoughts and your story. Being mindful and staying in the movement is so incredible and can be hard at times. Thank you for the inspiration!
By Cortney Benvenuto on January 2, 2017 at 7:27 pm
Thank you Tara. As I find myself rushing around every day to create miracles of accomplishment, I remind myself that giving complete focus to one idea, thing, activity, observation at a time lends a quality to the mental process that is completely satisfying. This year, I will be constantly reminding myself to “give complete focus” to be mindful.
Here is my guiding quote by Junot Diaz
“The whole culture is telling you to hurry, while the art is telling you to take your time. Always listen to the art.”
By mcdonaldrae on January 2, 2017 at 7:28 pm
Funny you should talk about mindfulness, it has been a major part of my end of 2016 as I lost my beloved Chihuahua and my doctor gave me some great avenues of mindfulness to move forward without her.
I do believe that mindfulness can help you with daydreaming also as is clears the mind of things you need to let go and opens the mind to what would.
By debbrooke on January 2, 2017 at 7:33 pm
Important reminder to stop worrying about a future we have no control over, and appreciate more the here and now. Thanks!’
By Joan Waites on January 2, 2017 at 7:35 pm
Great advice, Tara! I hope 2017 is full of daydreams and mindfulness:)
By Heather Pierce Stigall on January 2, 2017 at 7:36 pm
Riding the subway today after reading your post, I decided to daydream instead of read. There were so many amazing interactions I would’ve missed if I’d had my head in a book. Thanks for encouraging my free-thinking, free-diving mind.
By Sheri Bylander on January 2, 2017 at 7:42 pm
Great post! Thank you.
By DebbieLubbert on January 2, 2017 at 7:42 pm
I just went through my own “lost year”. It is encouraging to hear how you pushed through your diagnosis and fears and were able to continue writing. Thanks for sharing what you learned.
By Janet Frenck Sheets on January 2, 2017 at 7:48 pm
Tara, this is a wonderful article that shows the importance of enjoying the moment. It’s so important! Also allowing ourselves the luxury of daydreaming helps our creativity and provides us with fun. Thanks for posting!
By Rona Shirdan on January 2, 2017 at 7:57 pm
Excellent thoughts! I will mine my mind! And mind my mind…
By Elise on January 2, 2017 at 8:02 pm
“Be Mindful”
I love it.
By Susan Schade on January 2, 2017 at 8:09 pm
Mmm…. “partners in creative living”….I like that phrase. Thanks!
By Christine Irvin on January 2, 2017 at 8:17 pm
Thanks for the inspiration! Mindfulness-less. 🙂
By Shari Schwarz on January 2, 2017 at 8:20 pm
Tara a great post- having had a year away from writing due to cancer, this is very pertinent and a great push to have the courage to continue writing again. Thanks.
By Lorraine Marwood on January 2, 2017 at 8:20 pm
“Mine- and mind”… I like what you did there! 🙂 Thanks for making me look forward to folding my laundry
By Ryan Roberts on January 2, 2017 at 8:26 pm
Having ponder time is crucial, as much as going with the thinnest thread of tale when caught in the everyday rush and crush. Balance is key. And a good stuffed animal or two. Or three…. or…
By Jan Hoffman on January 2, 2017 at 8:31 pm
nice post, something I’m working on doing.
By Claire O'Brien on January 2, 2017 at 8:32 pm
Thank you for the info. I have also heard about the benefits of mindfulness. It’s not easy to do in this techno age.
By slowsly on January 2, 2017 at 8:42 pm
Thanks, Tara for the beautiful discussion of where our ideas come from. Ironically I’ve been pondering reading less lately, for this very reason. I am lately too much in the words of others instead of in my own mind noticing the world and what I’m thinking about it. Love this thought!
By Christine Pinto on January 2, 2017 at 8:43 pm
I’m working on turning all my thinking into action and planning, being more ‘mindful’ should help.
By Sue on January 2, 2017 at 8:44 pm
As a teacher, mindfulness is also becoming a common method of getting students ready to learn. I wonder if you can be mindfully daydreaming? I guess you can create a situation (e.g. folding laundry) where your mind is free to roam, but then what happens when you try to pin down that elusive process? and how do I turn this into a story?…
Thanks, Tara!
By Peyton Leung on January 2, 2017 at 9:00 pm
Enjoyed this post.
By Shirley Johnson on January 2, 2017 at 9:08 pm
Very thought provoking! Thank you!
By Jennifer Laughlin on January 2, 2017 at 9:10 pm
Is it being mindful or mindless when you try to remember a dream before it flits away? Most of my dreams are dumb and forgettable, but once in a while there is something I want to hang on to, just in case I can use it in a story.
By Martha Seif Simpson on January 2, 2017 at 9:18 pm
As usual, thank you Tara for your openness and inspiration!
By seschipper on January 2, 2017 at 9:23 pm
Thank you so much for this amazing post Tara!
By Ali Bovis on January 2, 2017 at 9:24 pm
Yes to the Brick Oven! Everyone needs one. Now I know what to call mine. I certainly bake ideas there.
By Jennifer Ridgway on January 2, 2017 at 9:34 pm
Thanks, Tara! I’m not gonna lie. Being mindful is tough for me. Usually my brain is going in 100 different directions! But when I’m successful, I can feel the difference. Looking forward to practicing both mindfulness and daydreaming as I continue to mine for ideas.
By Becky Scharnhorst on January 2, 2017 at 9:46 pm
This is such a “spot on” blog post, Tara 🙂 We most definitely should be mindful of the world around us, and daydreaming during the mundane is key!
By writersideup on January 2, 2017 at 9:46 pm
Thanks for sharing the twin messages of mindfulness and daydreaming. 🙂
By Mavis Penney on January 2, 2017 at 9:55 pm
Thank you. I love the affirmation of daydreaming!
By Lauren Barbieri on January 2, 2017 at 9:56 pm
Your words resonate with me, Tara– lately I’ve been working to be mindful of creating opportunities to let my mind wanderings happen. And I’m envious of your ever-warm bench!
By Alexandra Hinrichs on January 2, 2017 at 9:59 pm
Thank you for the reminders in this article!
By laurelwoodkeeper on January 2, 2017 at 10:01 pm
You’re an inspiration, Tara! Love the potent combination of mindfulness and daydreaming. Now if I could just get my oven to work as well as yours 🙂
By Marty B on January 2, 2017 at 10:06 pm
Fascinating perspective on two things that seemed mutually exclusive! Thanks, Tara!
By Leslie Santamaria on January 2, 2017 at 10:08 pm
Thank you. It does seem that even though days are so busy that letting the mind just wander is hugely beneficial for creativity and self but noting what comes out of that mental meanering is important too.
By Andrew lefebvre on January 2, 2017 at 10:08 pm
I love this post! Mindfulness is so important–and also leads to better daydreaming than frantic busyness. Thanks!
By susanbruck on January 2, 2017 at 10:13 pm
I love this post about being mindful. Thanks for sharing!
By Laura Bellina on January 2, 2017 at 10:20 pm
Thanks, Tara! I often feel guilty when I take time to daydream. Yet, daydreaming can feel so wonderful as long as I am daydreaming in a kid like way, and not worrying and obsessing. For that, mindfulness has become a positive solution. I really enjoyed your perspective. My goal this year is to live a more creative and mindful life.
By LJ Laniewski on January 2, 2017 at 10:22 pm
Daydreaming and mind-wandering can be difficult with all the other tasks of the day at hand. I vow to try to wander and see where it leads me. Thanks, Tara!
By lizbedia on January 2, 2017 at 10:27 pm
Thank you Tara! I agree so wholeheartedly. I even have a mindful app – though sometimes it pops up “time for a mindful break” and I say “not right now app, I’m busy losing my mind!”
By Lauri Meyers on January 2, 2017 at 10:28 pm
Awesome! Mindfulness has been on my mind a lot lately, and I love how you weave daydreaming into the fold. Great suggestions!
By mkresk on January 2, 2017 at 10:28 pm
It’s amazing of you to host this. Thank you, Tara!
By Ginger Meurer on January 2, 2017 at 10:29 pm
Thank you for giving me permission to daydream. I do it a lot but don’t often share them with others. That’s part of why I started writing.
By Lu Fiskin-Ross on January 2, 2017 at 10:29 pm
Aren’t all writers natural daydreamers? The problem I have is the mindfulness part. Just taking time out and not feeling guilty about doing nothing. Thanks for the article.
By Stuart Carruthers on January 2, 2017 at 10:31 pm
Thank you Tara. I have to remember to daydream…just like I use to when I was in school!
By Adriane Pirro on January 2, 2017 at 10:33 pm
I love you highlighting both mindfulness and mind wandering as important. Very true!
By Cinzia on January 2, 2017 at 10:34 pm
I’m an A+ daydreamer, but I have to work at being mindful. Walks in nature, listening to music without words, and focusing on groups of chattering children often inspire me.
By Louann Brown on January 2, 2017 at 10:43 pm
TARA: I am also a HUGE fan of Mindfulness; it has truly helped me in SO MANY ways. I LOVE how you show the connection between Mindfulness and creativity! You have me thinking about both in a brand new way. THANK YOU!!!
By Natalie Lynn Tanner on January 2, 2017 at 10:44 pm
Yay for Day Dreaming! Thank you, Tara! Take Care.
By raniiyer on January 2, 2017 at 10:47 pm
Mining mindfulness. Exploring daydreams. Creating in between. I like it.
By Joan Marie Arbogast on January 2, 2017 at 10:52 pm
Thank you for this! I realized this morning how much I just want to daydream right now, which means I haven’t been doing enough of that. And I came up with three story ideas today, not even trying to. Hooray!
By Dee Wilson on January 2, 2017 at 10:52 pm
Daydreaming & Mindfulness are interesting bedfellows. The odd couple that is a match made in BP writing heaven! Thanks for the opportunity to pick your brain 🙂
By writeknit on January 2, 2017 at 10:53 pm
Great post! Funny how two opposites can be so important in the creative process. And I have to say, it is when I’m not thinking about something…daydreaming…that’s when the breakthroughs come. And hope to have a piece of paper or electronic devices with me at that moment. 🙂
By Christine F McIsaac (@ChristineFMc) on January 2, 2017 at 10:59 pm
I have lots of laundry to do, so I’ll put my notebook by the laundry basket and to catch some daydreamy ideas.
By Sandra S. Jenkins on January 2, 2017 at 11:00 pm
Thank you, Tara. I believe in the power of a wandering mind—you never know where you’ll end up!
By Tracy Molitors on January 2, 2017 at 11:03 pm
Thank you for this post.
By Matt Leitzen on January 2, 2017 at 11:04 pm
A mindful daydreamer-I love it! Thanks for letting me know those characters and plot lines that pop into mind alongside my grocery list are part of the creative process!
By Judy Sobanski on January 2, 2017 at 11:05 pm
I love the idea that mindfulness can lead to and improve daydreaming. Great post!
By Erin Pearson on January 2, 2017 at 11:09 pm
Mindfully creative? Creatively unmindful? Either way, I love it. Let the ideas blow in. Thanks, Tara.
By Cindy Williams Schrauben on January 2, 2017 at 11:10 pm
Thanks for permission to daydream and not feel guilty about it.
By annastanton on January 2, 2017 at 11:14 pm
Thanks for all the excellent information. Congratulations on releasing more books in 2017!
By bestsocialmediaguru on January 2, 2017 at 11:21 pm
I’ve had a ton of great ideas on long distance drives. Lots of time for your mind to wander and fall down plot holes.
By angie9091 on January 2, 2017 at 11:31 pm
Thank you for the inspiration, and I will look for my own “brick oven” for the rest of the surprising and delightful cold Oregon winter days.
By Sherry Weaver Smith (@sherrybay) on January 2, 2017 at 11:34 pm
I love daydreaming. So glad it’s not time wasted.
By Jeanette Koscheski on January 2, 2017 at 11:35 pm
Thank you for sharing. I totally agree! I try to schedule “do nothing days” where you can do whatever you want. They are the best and most creative days.
By mlflannigan on January 2, 2017 at 11:37 pm
Tara, I love this post. My very best “daydreaming” happens when I’m out on a “saunter stroll” with my dog around the local golf course. I get thinking about my protagonist, ask a question about a scene I’m struggling with, and let my mind figure it out as I’m moving. I’ve been known to kick myself – “pay attention to the juncos, the pink skies” etc. but inevitably my brain wants to get creative… so you’ve given me permission to do both, and just accept that sometimes I’m fully present and sometimes in my mind – and both are a-okay.
By Courtenay Schurman on January 2, 2017 at 11:39 pm
Thanks for the thought-provoking post! I hadn’t considered the connection between mindfulness and daydreaming. I need to make time for both–and to learn how to keep the endless lists of “I should be doing this or that” from interrupting both.
By Kristen Browning on January 2, 2017 at 11:40 pm
Thanks! This inspired me to write a rough first draft for a pb story about a witch’s daughter who’s initially disappointed with the gift of an unmagical Zen Garden her mother gives her.
Two days, two first drafts. So far, so good!
By Nori Underhill on January 2, 2017 at 11:42 pm
Lovely post. Thanks, Tara!
By Joanne R Fritz on January 2, 2017 at 11:45 pm
Another helpful and insightful blog post. Thank you Tara. Namaste!
By Nadine Poper on January 2, 2017 at 11:46 pm
Creative mindfulness – let’s all take part in this and see what creations emerge. 🙂 Thanks, Tara!
By Ann Kelley on January 2, 2017 at 11:48 pm
Great wordplay with mind and mine your ideas. Love the two contradicting concept of mindfulness and daydreaming. In other words, freeing the spirit within to create something good! Thanks Tara.
By Meena on January 2, 2017 at 11:57 pm
Thank you for reminding us that being mindful and letting our minds drift on the winds of creativity are both needed in order to reach our creative inner self.
By Carol Gwin Nelson on January 3, 2017 at 12:02 am
I love your acknowledgment that creativity IS powered by our wandering minds. Sometimes it feels like the “mindfulness movement” dismisses the lovely, wild energy of untamed thoughts.
By amomnextdoor on January 3, 2017 at 12:06 am
Interesting idea
By tinawissner on January 3, 2017 at 12:10 am
Another reformed worrier here. Thanks for the great post.
By Vanessa Marcus on January 3, 2017 at 12:11 am
I daydream all the time, but lose it quickly. Wow mindful of our daydreams, now that’s something alright. Thanks Tara
By Artelle Lenthall on January 3, 2017 at 12:24 am
Tara, thank you for a mindful post. I do try to be mindful in other aspects of life. Thank you for reminding us that we should be mindful and using those down times to let our minds wander. We may wander into something really special.
By carol on January 3, 2017 at 12:31 am
Some of my most creative moments occur in the shower. I always wish it would happen at other times throughout my day. After reading your post, I’m going to be more ‘mindful’ when I’m doing other everyday tasks to let my mind wander and dream the way it does in the shower. Thanks for the inspiration!
By Sharlin Craig on January 3, 2017 at 12:32 am
This is everything my mind has been thinking but hadn’t quite formed into words yet. This makes so much sense to me….I love letting my mind wander and agree wholeheartedly that we need to mindful of that. Free-writing, journaling, reflecting–without those things, creativity feels lost to me.
And the reason we get our best ideas when performing mundane, routine tasks is because that’s when our mind produces the most theta waves. Theta brainwaves are the creative ones. Great article! Thank you!
By Rebekah Lowell on January 3, 2017 at 12:32 am
First, thank you for the generous prize of a Skype session with you. Next, this was such an inspiring post. Letting go, and embracing the possibilities of our imagination can be a bit scary. I mean, what if we actually make material what we actually dream? You’ve started a movement Tara.
By Pamela Courtney on January 3, 2017 at 12:33 am
Inspiring! Thank you!
By sharonkdal on January 3, 2017 at 12:37 am
Just last week I was considering the term mindfulness. I decided I would call it being present. Because I am guilty of toooooo much multi-tasking. So being present plus allowing my mind to wander through daydreams will really let those ideas perk! Thanks, Tara! I appreciate your sharing.
By Angie on January 3, 2017 at 12:50 am
Off to mine my mind! 🙂 Thanks, Tara.
By Jill Giesbrecht on January 3, 2017 at 1:11 am
And this is how I squander meditation time. With pleasure. Thank you for giving permission!
By C. Lee Sage on January 3, 2017 at 1:24 am
Tara, thanks for a great post. Mindfulness is something I need to focus on more during 2017. What a great prize. 🙂
By Maria Marshall on January 3, 2017 at 1:35 am
Both mindfulness and daydreaming are ways to make the most of the time we have. Lovely post, Tara!
By Sandy Perlic on January 3, 2017 at 1:41 am
Thank you for your post. I must remember to give myself time for more mind-wandering.
By Brenda Huante on January 3, 2017 at 1:45 am
What a beautiful night post! And you will be happy to know that I got a waterproof notebook for my shower! A thoughtful gift from a thoughtful niece. Xoxo
By marciecolleen on January 3, 2017 at 1:50 am
A mindfulness reminder … I needed that. Thank you. 🙂
By Didi Wood on January 3, 2017 at 2:04 am
This new year has me needing quiet, quiet, quiet. Far away from social media, deep in my own thoughts. Thanks, for the perfectly timed post!
By triciacandy on January 3, 2017 at 2:05 am
Day dreaming and mindfulness. Thank you Tara Lazar. I needed to read this perfect post for today.
By Mary Jane Muir on January 3, 2017 at 2:17 am
Lovely post Tara! I’ve been trying to bring more mindfulness to my life lately. I love the idea that mindfulness and daydreaming go hand in hand. I shall make it a goal this year to cultivate both!
By Emily Wayne (@emilywayneart) on January 3, 2017 at 2:33 am
Thank you for this post- grateful for some time to wander outside and let my mind wander as well. Great reminder how important this is!
By lisabilla on January 3, 2017 at 3:24 am
❤️💚💜 (you, this post, and Thich Nhat Hanh)
By Stacy Couch on January 3, 2017 at 3:25 am
❤️💚💜 (you, your post, and Thich Nhat Hanh)
By Stacy Couch on January 3, 2017 at 3:27 am
This post really hit home. Particularly when you referred to your year of worrying as “the lost year.” My family recently had a year like that and it was a complete waste of time worrying. Now we’re moving on and it feels great. I love your outdoor sitting area! It looks like the perfect little nook to brainstorm. Lots to take away here. Thanks!
By Jamie Deenihan on January 3, 2017 at 3:30 am
Great post. I think I do my best thinking lying down, when my mind starts to wander. Or while driving. I’ve had to pull over more than once to jot something down.
By uraniasmith on January 3, 2017 at 3:53 am
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and your personal story.
By Rachelle on January 3, 2017 at 4:39 am
Thank you for your thoughtful words, inspiring positivity, and spirit.
By Kaitlin Hedberg on January 3, 2017 at 5:10 am
I love the idea of mindfulness and mind wandering coming together for good! Thanks, Tara!
By Amy Harding on January 3, 2017 at 6:18 am
Thanks Tara! Very Rod Serling-esque. I’m off to another dimension now.
By Michael Karg on January 3, 2017 at 6:22 am
I love that feeling of my mind drifting and finding ideas.
By The World Is My Cuttlefish on January 3, 2017 at 6:34 am
Great article, Tara, and a wonderful way to begin my day. 🙂 Best of health to you!
By Lisa A. Reiss on January 3, 2017 at 7:08 am
Thank you. I’m motivated to practice more mindfulness!
By Aimee Haburjak on January 3, 2017 at 7:11 am
Giving the mind room to wander – that’ll be my goal for today. Thanks, Tara.
By Meghan Burch on January 3, 2017 at 7:13 am
I love this – permission to be mindful and to daydream. One of teachers wrote on my report card, “Rebecca has a tendency to daydream.” This could have been the best comment anyone ever wrote about me. It sure has come in handy as a writer.
By Rebecca Sheraton on January 3, 2017 at 7:14 am
I love the practice of mindfulness, and also of the idea of being mindful of when you are not mindful. Thank you Tara for a great post about inspiration and creativity!
By Melissa Stoller on January 3, 2017 at 8:19 am
Great advice. With a cray-mazing (new word, worth it) prize!
By Michelle O'Hara Levin on January 3, 2017 at 8:40 am
I didn’t mind and daydreamed right past the comments on the first AND 2nd read throughs. Duh…
By sunwalker2013 on January 3, 2017 at 8:41 am
Thank you for the reminder to be mindful but also to dream!
By Jen G. on January 3, 2017 at 8:46 am
I would love to spend an hour on the phone chatting to you about writerly things Tara x
By telltalestome on January 3, 2017 at 8:54 am
just go with the flow cloud
By ritaborg on January 3, 2017 at 8:55 am
Great post Tara. Thanks for reminding us that our brain needs time to roam.
By Kathy Cornell Berman on January 3, 2017 at 9:09 am
Oh Tara…first of all. I have been noticing the mindfulness wave everywhere as well and trying to practice it with my three little ones and staying present in the their world- instead of worrying about the future all the time! What a beautiful post and honestly this prize is priceless. I would LOVE this.You responded to my email a few weeks back, and your genuine interest and support in helping aspiring authors is amazing. Inspirational. Thanks so much!!
http://www.larissajuliano.com
By Larissa Juliano on January 3, 2017 at 9:12 am
Love this and Love you Tara!! Thanks for all you do!!!
By Heather H. Rhodes Writer on January 3, 2017 at 9:36 am
Thank you for your inspirational post. Mindfulness and being present in the moment sitting catlike in the sun. Let the ideas flow.
By carol calladine on January 3, 2017 at 9:59 am
I am inspired by your story. You really embrace life, even when dealing with a difficult diagnosis like MS. I really enjoyed reading your post. Thanks for doing this, Tara!
By Kylie Burns kysblog1 on January 3, 2017 at 10:00 am
Brilliant! My mindfulness needs to put a hand over my mouth! Think more and talk less in 2017. I appreciate your thoughts on creating inspiration, thank you.
By Jill Jeffries on January 3, 2017 at 10:04 am
I understand what it feels to have “a lost year.” Blessings to you and thank you for sharing your journey with us! As I read your article, I felt some ideas starting to jump up (there goes my intersection of inner and outer world!) – Time to jot a few things down – thank you! 🙂
By wfedan on January 3, 2017 at 10:04 am
After a month of long to-do lists and obligations, I am ready to be mindful, daydream and release some crazy ideas.
By Lorraine on January 3, 2017 at 10:09 am
Great article, thank you. I certainly can identify with having what feels like a “lost year”. I practice mindfulness because of that, but now I’m very encouraged to let my mind wander away a little more often. Hopefully some great ideas will come to me because of it!
By Kelsey on January 3, 2017 at 10:20 am
Well said! i celebrate both daydreaming and mindfulness.
By Elizabeth Saba on January 3, 2017 at 10:21 am
Great post. thank you for sharing.
By Jason Perkins on January 3, 2017 at 10:22 am
Thanks, Tara. Really enjoyed reading your post.
By rowenarae on January 3, 2017 at 10:31 am
Thanks Tara! I recently took a class with Karen Boss through The Writers’ Loft and one of the things she recommended was editing while rote tasking like on long drives, folding laundry etc. Since then I have used my longer runs or drives to either edit manuscripts (in my head, no car crashes) or at night when my brain won’t shut off I put myself in my story and live through the character’s interactions. It’s very revealing. Also I day dream a lot. Thanks for this post!
By wpdrey on January 3, 2017 at 10:37 am
My mind is full.
Allow My mind to go on an adventure.
Allow.
By Shel on January 3, 2017 at 10:38 am
Thank you Tara for this inspiring post and for all you do to support the writing community!
By Marlene Rohr on January 3, 2017 at 10:40 am
Thanks for sharing, Tara.
By Dawn on January 3, 2017 at 11:00 am
Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us!
By Deb Beauchamp on January 3, 2017 at 11:16 am
Great post for opening our minds. Thanks, Tara!! 🙂
By Kenda Henthorn on January 3, 2017 at 11:24 am
It’s easy to lose sight of blending both! Thanks for the reminder. I’m off to fold laundry and daydream.
By Jennifer Larson Hunt on January 3, 2017 at 11:25 am
Thanks Tara….loved your post!
By Susan Haderlie on January 3, 2017 at 11:25 am
I tend to lean too far to the daydreaming side. I like the idea of striking the right balance between both and allowing mindfulness to stimulate the daydream.
By Jacqueline on January 3, 2017 at 11:39 am
YES! Such a great topic. I find that movement and mindfulness go together. Even slow movement…It’s Anti Butt In Chair, but it opens up creativity.
By Carrie Pearson (@carrieapearson) on January 3, 2017 at 11:40 am
Thoughtful
By Anita Banks on January 3, 2017 at 12:01 pm
What a terrific reminder to be mindful about not being mindful! Thanks, Tara!
By Katrina Moore on January 3, 2017 at 12:12 pm
Great post! I’ve been getting great ideas while walking.
By laurazarrin on January 3, 2017 at 12:13 pm
Really wonderful post. Being mindful is something I really struggle with and want to improve upon on in 2017!
By Kelly Jordan on January 3, 2017 at 12:23 pm
A great reminder that we need to both be mindful and just let loose and enjoy, Thanks Tara
By bevbaird on January 3, 2017 at 12:35 pm
Ain’t that the TRUTH! Thank you for the perspective, Tara
By Emily Lavoo Johnsen on January 3, 2017 at 12:36 pm
Thank you for sharing your inspiring story, Tara. Merging mindfulness and daydreaming makes a lot of sense.
By Sydney O'Neill on January 3, 2017 at 12:37 pm
Funny how technology rushes us. Thanks for the reminder to slow down and savor.
By Liz Garcia on January 3, 2017 at 12:46 pm
Walking with my dogs opens my mind.
By MaryALivingston on January 3, 2017 at 12:47 pm
Setting time aside to think is extremely important. I know I always need to be reminded to do so. I also like driving without any music on to let my mind wander (still paying attention to the road though!).
By bgonsar on January 3, 2017 at 1:29 pm
Tara, the best balance of both worlds. That’s it. Writers are daydreamers by heart. It’s the mindfulness part I have trouble with.I always enjoy your fresh perspective on things. Thank you.
By Sharon on January 3, 2017 at 1:33 pm
I love the concept of balancing mindfulness with daydreaming. They are related, fuel each other and have equal importance. Thank you for that important reminder so that we may mine and mind our ideas. And… thank you for your candor and important words about living today rather than focusing on our anxiety. We do miss so much when we focus on current worries rather than current moments.
By LaurenKerstein on January 3, 2017 at 1:54 pm
Oh my goodness. I had such a hard time coming up with just ONE of your thoughts that most resonated with me. I’m going with this one: “I learned that worrying about the future makes you miss out on the here and now.” Such a wonderful reminder for all of us. Thank you again, Tara, for your insight and wisdom – all delivered so thoughtfully and eloquently. It’s all about balance, isn’t it? 🙂
By Susie Sawyer on January 3, 2017 at 2:18 pm
I love the image of mindfulness and daydreaming as partners in creative living. That’s something to let float about, mindfully.
By Jenifer Heidorn on January 3, 2017 at 2:26 pm
Thanks so much for your insight, Tara! I daydream when I take long walks – and that’s when I get my best writing ideas!
By Suzanne Alexander on January 3, 2017 at 3:21 pm
Great advice, Tara. I agree. Mindfulness makes us appreciate things more but there is no reason why we can’t let our mind wander during routine things. I often get great story ideas while exercising, cooking, or when in the shower (yes, seriously…in the shower. It’s like the ideas are hidden in the shower head and they rain down into my brain. LOL)
By Linda Hofke on January 3, 2017 at 3:21 pm
Some of my best solutions come when I am pulling weeds or cleaning – doing those tasks that require physical activity, but not necessarily focus. There are lots of ways to have a full mind.
By Darlene Ivy on January 3, 2017 at 3:32 pm
I use my walks in the dark with my dogs every morning for inspiration. Usually so quiet I can just think while they sniff and …..
By Megan Whitaker on January 3, 2017 at 3:44 pm
This is all so true! Thank you for sharing this with us and reminding us how we need to take time to be calm and quiet, and to daydream. 🙂
By Amalia H. on January 3, 2017 at 4:11 pm
I definitely need to set aside more time for daydreaming. I get so anxious when I’m not doing something “productive,” but my most interesting ideas occur when I’m not thinking about anything in particular. Thanks for the reminder, Tara!
By Erika Schnatz on January 3, 2017 at 4:12 pm
Tara, I experienced the interplay between mindfulness and creativity yesterday at an acupuncture treatment, which has always been a place that I focus on mindfulness and meditation. A lawnmower buzzed by outside and I acknowledged the sound and let my mind take me back to my childhood summers. As soon as the needles were out, I had my Storystorm idea and even some poetic lines. Thank you for your candid and unabashed posts about your disease. I received two autoimmune diagnoses last year and had to work through some significant lifestyle and perception changes, so I appreciate hearing about your experience and how you have pushed through!
By Amanda Sincavage on January 3, 2017 at 4:28 pm
I love mindfulness. My best time is the half hour between the time my husband gets up to shower and I get up. I snuggle in the covers and let my mind float. I always seem to solve a problem with an illustration or story in this precious half hour before my day begins.
By Dayne Sislen, Children's Book Illustrator on January 3, 2017 at 4:30 pm
I love the idea of the mind wandering and mindfulness as being partners. I tend to try to daydream on my commute since I have an hour in and out of the city everyday. Thank you for this post!
By Anne Appert on January 3, 2017 at 4:33 pm
I am totally guilty of often looking to the next thing. This post is a great reminder to be fully present in the now and to revel in down time that encourages creative thinking.
By Sara Gentry on January 3, 2017 at 4:33 pm
What a great idea…to free your mind up to be creative while doing mundane tasks. Many of us just daydream or stare.
By bamauthor on January 3, 2017 at 4:48 pm
Wise words! We need some of each to stay sane!
By pattywaymedic on January 3, 2017 at 4:57 pm
Great suggestions to be mindful, but let the mind wander, too. I find I often come up with my favorite ideas when on vacation or out on a stroll – away from the household clutter that manages to affect both my physical & mental spaces. Thank you, Tara, for this post & your organization of StoryStorm!
By ptnozell on January 3, 2017 at 4:58 pm
Sometimes, when I allow myself that daydreaming time, story ideas come crashing down on me.
By Joyce Allan on January 3, 2017 at 5:07 pm
I have been practicing mindfulness more this past year and noticed it has increased the chances for moments of inspiration. Thank you.
By Larissa Marantz on January 3, 2017 at 5:33 pm
I’ve always joked that I don’t clean because it offends my creativity because as soon as it’s done, it needs to be done again. But, if I now use it to daydream and mine creative ideas. . . hmmmm. I just might have to dust and vacuum a bit more often. My creativity will thank you and my husband will thank you!
Susan Reith Swan
By writingcygnet on January 3, 2017 at 5:46 pm
I almost always get my best ideas while taking a shower.
By Michele Helsel on January 3, 2017 at 5:46 pm
Thank you Tara! I love the idea that both being mindful and being a daydreamer are important to the creative process.
By Heidi Yates on January 3, 2017 at 5:49 pm
Practicing mindfulness – the here and now – is so important. “Worry pretends to be necessary but serves no useful purpose” Eckhart Tolle
Thanks for sharing, Tara.
By Tracey Brown on January 3, 2017 at 6:15 pm
I love that you included a picture of your “brick oven”. I hope to set aside more quiet time in 2017 to daydream. When I need to multitask, I have post-it notes throughout the house and a running list on my phone so I can jot down the ideas as they come.
By Megan Jones on January 3, 2017 at 7:14 pm
Great post…from the mind and the heart.
By Steve Schwartz on January 3, 2017 at 7:33 pm
Excellent post, Tara. Being present is so hard to do and also so necessary.
By kpbock on January 3, 2017 at 8:03 pm
Being aware of mindfulness is invaluable. Thanks Tara!
By Nat Keller on January 3, 2017 at 8:29 pm
Hi Tara,
I read your post yesterday and really loved it. I think I am going to try set a few minutes away each day to let my mind wander. Thanks!
By Julie Beturne on January 3, 2017 at 8:39 pm
Thank you for sharing your journey, Tara. Mindfulness is something that I will be incorporating in my life this year. I just wish I had a “brick oven”, too!
By Patricia Toht on January 3, 2017 at 8:49 pm
Sometimes ideas come from the most unexpected places! I’m a huge fan of mindfulness and practice yoga…so helpful to me in feeling grounded and centered and to tamper any stress I might feel. Love it. But I also love letting my mind wander. Thanks!
By mentortexts on January 3, 2017 at 9:13 pm
Thank you, Tara. Your thoughts warm my heart. I appreciate the reminders to be mindful AND to daydream. Hugs.
~Suzy Leopold
By Prairie Garden Girl on January 3, 2017 at 9:24 pm
This is wonderful, Tara. I plan to read this over and over. It could not have come at a better time for me as I struggle for ideas and time in my day to cultivate creativity. Thank you, dear Tara.
By Stella Jane Stauffer (Lopez) on January 3, 2017 at 9:34 pm
Tara, I love this so much! Especially this: “Actually, I believe practicing mindfulness can lead us to become better daydreamers. They are not adversaries, but partners in creative living.” YES. We need the time to let our minds do what they were created to do, and part of that is being *creative.*
By Caroline Flory on January 3, 2017 at 9:36 pm
I’m very good at daydreaming,, but not so good at slating time to sit and just be. Or to spend in, for example, a brick oven. I always feel calmer when I do, so after reading your post I’m going to make it my mission to do so on a regular basis. Thank you Tara.
By wendymyersart on January 3, 2017 at 9:36 pm
I hope to be more mindful in 2017. You’re awesome Tara!
By barbd43 on January 3, 2017 at 10:00 pm
Mind-fulness. Mine-fulness. Got it!
By Stephanie Farrow on January 3, 2017 at 10:14 pm
PS Love the tree illustration!
By Stephanie Farrow on January 3, 2017 at 10:19 pm
As a daydreamer I really appreciate this post. Thank you, Tara, for another year of story possibilities in thirty days.
By Lynn A. Davidson on January 3, 2017 at 10:43 pm
I loved this post, Tara! If you mind your mind you will discover a gold mine! 🙂 Thanks!
By Carrie Charley Brown on January 3, 2017 at 10:52 pm
I surely hope this comment posts this time around- but 3rd times a charm, right. 🙂 I just wanted to thank you so much for reminding me to mind my mind and my not-so-mindful mind, as well.
By Carrie Charley Brown on January 3, 2017 at 10:55 pm
I think I’ve been missing out on both the daydreaming and being mindful. Not feeling very creative as a result. Going to give both a try in the new year. Thanks, Tara!
By Debbie Austin on January 3, 2017 at 11:13 pm
I liked the concept that successful entrepreneurs schedule time for themselves. Thank you, Tara.
By DB Cote on January 3, 2017 at 11:29 pm
Mindfulness and daydreaming – fabulous post. Thanks Tara!
By Jessie Burnam on January 3, 2017 at 11:33 pm
Thank you for the permission to daydream 🙂
By Guyla Greenly on January 3, 2017 at 11:52 pm
Thanks for your deeply moving thoughts on being mindful of our daydreams, how lovely. I’ve been reading it over a few times since you posted it, waiting till I had some quiet moments to thank you. I have a close friend who also has had MS for quite a long time, my thoughts are with you. Thanks too for the labor of love you’ve poured into preparing this writing feast for all of us this month!
By Michelle Kogan Illustration, Painting & Writing on January 4, 2017 at 12:28 am
awesome post…. I don’t remember getting such thoughts to ponder on in some time.. Thanks for this.
By Hemangini on January 4, 2017 at 1:26 am
If you have time to clean, you have time to dream!
Thank you for your post.
By harveydickson on January 4, 2017 at 2:45 am
Love this post, Tara!
By anniebailey7 on January 4, 2017 at 3:34 am
Thanks Tara. I appreciate your perspective on combining mindfulness with daydreaming.
By Teresa Daffern on January 4, 2017 at 3:51 am
Very nice. It made me Think. Thank you!
By Maria J Cuesta on January 4, 2017 at 4:52 am
Thank you Tara!
By Anna Levin on January 4, 2017 at 5:02 am
I appreciate the reminder to slow down and think. I teach my students this, and yet, I find myself getting caught up in the rush of things. Thank you!
By Lisa Morgan on January 4, 2017 at 7:20 am
Thank you!
By Alli Harper on January 4, 2017 at 7:48 am
Permission to daydream is just what I needed. I always feel guilty taking time out to think and dream.
By Elaine on January 4, 2017 at 8:01 am
Thanks, Tara. Off to be mindful. Whilst the dishwasher was recently out of action for about seven weeks and I had to wash up in the bath -the kitchen was out of action, too, I found that washing up was great for working on manuscripts. I got into the mindful habit of realising when I was needing to think and then choosing to wash up. It worked a treat. x
By julietclarebell on January 4, 2017 at 8:23 am
Thank you for making this happen!
By Hélène Sabourin on January 4, 2017 at 9:35 am
I’ve done a lot of reading/research about mindfulness over the last couple of years and it is amazing how our subconscious mind literally drives us in our daily thoughts and actions. It’s intent on drudging up the past and worrying about the future. It has the savvy ability to get you from point A to point B leaving you to wonder why you don’t remember how you got there. Mindfulness is so important in today’s world, but I agree that we need to lose ourselves every now and then in order to let creativity inside and flourish.
By Susan Howard on January 4, 2017 at 10:14 am
I like your idea of balance between mindfulness and daydream. Thank you!
By Carolyn Leiloglou on January 4, 2017 at 11:11 am
Daydreaming Rules!
By Stephen S. Martin on January 4, 2017 at 11:22 am
So true, Tara. I think being aware of what we are doing at the moment can help with the details of a story:, the smell of gingerbread, the sound of leaves crunching underfoot, the, the touch of a snowflake. But as you say, it’s also important to let our minds wander so creativity can surprise and delight us. Thanks for sharing your insight and providing this opportunity for all of us.
By Laurie Swinler on January 4, 2017 at 12:06 pm
Thanks, Tara. I’m sorry to hear about your diagnosis. Life comes at us when we least expect it. My youngest son was dx with type 1 diabetes. The first year was my “lost year.” I quit my job and painted my nails a lot. Then, I started drawing again. And drawing. And drawing. Here I am with a new path. Glad you too were re-energized after being dealt a junk hand. Thanks. Wonderful post, lady!
By karammitchell on January 4, 2017 at 12:14 pm
I try to be mindful of all my ideas, even the scraps. I think of myself as a collage artist who uses words. So, I save my scraps of ideas and at the right time, they’ll come together to make the picture complete
By Sharon Langley on January 4, 2017 at 1:49 pm
That’s right, mindfulness should be a part of our everyday lives and in times of mindfulness, I hope thanking God for whatever comes our way should be included too. I wish you healing and the best of 2017!
By aliciaminor on January 4, 2017 at 2:07 pm
Excellent post, Tara. Loved it. I wish you a year of happy “mindful daydreaming”!
By Carleen Shreeve on January 4, 2017 at 2:47 pm
Thank you Tara!
By Alison Goldberg on January 4, 2017 at 2:56 pm
Fantastic point about mindfulness and daydreaming NOT being adversaries. Maybe this only true with my kiddos. Thanks!
By Kate (@KateGiard) on January 4, 2017 at 3:02 pm
Thanks much Tara! 🙂
By Lotus Ivak on January 4, 2017 at 3:08 pm
The shower is my favorite place to not be mindful. (Except when shaving, of course!)
By Carrie Finison on January 4, 2017 at 4:14 pm
My kids are reading your posts with me. They said their favorite place to daydream is their bedroom. My favorite place is our craft/school room.
By tara8910 on January 4, 2017 at 4:25 pm
Love this post! thank you Tara
By Dawn Young on January 4, 2017 at 4:38 pm
And THIS is why I loved my 20-minute walking commute, almost always sans-headphones. Best thinking time, twice a day. Perfect.
By Elizabeth Metz on January 4, 2017 at 6:11 pm
This past year I began doodling. This has been a great way to clear my mind.
By Natalie Rompella on January 4, 2017 at 7:01 pm
Thanks…I haven’t yet found a special spot to practice mindfulness and I like that idea.
By Angel on January 4, 2017 at 7:07 pm
Thank you for reminding me to practice mindfulness as part of my writing life!
By Denise on January 4, 2017 at 8:09 pm
I’m working on that…to be mindful and aware when I’m out and not stuck in my own thoughts. Good ideas can come from the most innocuous, ordinary or mundane tasks, like going to the grocery store.
By Laura Hancock on January 4, 2017 at 8:23 pm
I love your “brick oven”
It looks like a lovely place to daydream.
By claireannette1 on January 4, 2017 at 8:48 pm
You are an inspiration, Tara!
By Carol Gordon Ekster on January 4, 2017 at 9:03 pm
Thank you Tara for your inspirational post. I hope the doctors will help you keep your ms manageable for many, many years. I’ll have to try to be more mindful instead of thinking about my to-do lists.
By Viviane LB on January 4, 2017 at 10:10 pm
Thanks Tara my goal for 2017 to be mindful not mind full
By Sharon Giltrow on January 4, 2017 at 10:29 pm
Thank you Tara! I am always so moved by how your humor shows through in all you do. It makes me want to try and mind or mine more of my own humor from time to time. I gave far too much to the outside world in 2016. As I attempt to nurture my inner world, I look forward to more balance and restored creativity!
By Erin Nowak on January 4, 2017 at 10:55 pm
Inside or outside, everyone needs a brick oven. Living in Minnesota with double digits below wind chills, this week, my brick oven is indoors.
By tdegezelle on January 4, 2017 at 10:57 pm
Wow! I love this. Being mindful is something I’ve been working on, and daydreaming will certainly help me through the mountains of laundry I’ve yet to fold.
By Maria Oka on January 5, 2017 at 12:10 am
Tara Lazar 👏🏻 Again awesome life advise, as humans we are on a constant research of ideas for everything, and this is an answer that could solve many problems 👌🏻💕thanks!
By sheistheteacher on January 5, 2017 at 12:52 am
Great post, Tara! As a cancer survivor (ten years), I have become more mindful about taking the time to daydream. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
By kmajor2013 on January 5, 2017 at 1:47 am
Thank you, Tara, for this reminder that making the space for ourselves, our minds, is as essential to the craft as putting pen to paper.
By Katherine Goff Thole on January 5, 2017 at 2:01 am
Loved your post! I think I need to talk to my teenagers about mindfulness. I’m enjoying the added flexibility that came with the change to Storystorm. Thanks for all you do!
By Myrna Foster on January 5, 2017 at 3:10 am
OK, I’m going to make time to be mindfully mindless! I realized last month that I was leaving Public Radio on 24./7 and it was blocking my ability to daydream. Sorry, NPR, but you are banned this month!
By Paula Cohen-Martin on January 5, 2017 at 9:55 am
Thank you Tara for the great article and the link to the Inc article on Thinking Mondays. Interesting how we assume all successful people are nose to the grindstone 100% of the time! It only makes sense that you need to step out of the race to observe feel see the inspiration around you. New goal for 2017!
By Cathy Stenquist on January 5, 2017 at 10:46 am
Great tips/reminders about the importance of both mindfulness and daydreaming in what we do. Love the quote too.
By christinerodenbour on January 5, 2017 at 12:13 pm
I am constantly daydreaming-maybe too much, lol.
By colleenrkosinski on January 5, 2017 at 12:25 pm
I think mindfulness and daydreaming is the perfect example of a paradox, and I believe some of life’s greatest lessons are paradoxes.
By Sharalyn Edgeberg on January 5, 2017 at 1:13 pm
Oh Tara, I’m so glad I got to meet you at NESCBWI 2016! Thank you for everything!
By saritarich on January 5, 2017 at 2:49 pm
I daydream all the time and increasingly switch off the radio for maximum dreamtime.
By Fran Price on January 5, 2017 at 7:20 pm
Many thanks, Tara. Listening to my muse at times without much buzz, I’ve dreamed on, re-read those rejections. I think instead of NO, they wrote not right now, write on. So glad I registered for StoryStorm.
By Pam Miller on January 5, 2017 at 7:32 pm
You’re so right! We writers need to be on the lookout for ideas, but we need to let our mind roam free like cattle, or fishes or birds! Balance is the key!
By Zoraida Rivera on January 5, 2017 at 10:40 pm
I like the line that mindfulness and daydreaming are partners in creativity. Thank you for your post Tara!
By Carolina Pedraza on January 6, 2017 at 12:59 am
What a great prize! I’ll daydream about what I’d ask if I was to win it.
By Reena Balding on January 6, 2017 at 6:03 am
Mindfulness and daydreaming, I like it! Thanks for all that you do, Tara.
By lahewson on January 6, 2017 at 6:51 am
Tara, thank you! I always thought my daydreaming was a handicap. You’ve helped me realized that it is in fact, a gift. Thank you for Storystorm!
By doriskstone on January 6, 2017 at 8:51 am
Thank you, Tara! Allowing your mind to wander is essential, along with daydreaming, which is why I am intentionally unplugged for long periods each day.
By Betsy Devany on January 6, 2017 at 9:52 am
So sorry to learn you have MS – though you are right, it’s not a sentence to a different life. Thanks for what I will call mindfulness and mind’less’ness notes ; )
By cantsing1 on January 6, 2017 at 11:40 am
Madame Tara, you are the Wonder Woman of children’s literature! Thank you for creating this space and experience for all of us.
By cravevsworld on January 6, 2017 at 11:53 am
Wow…great post Tara. I agree. Your view of the benefits of a relaxed mindfulness, an intense but flexible awareness, are right on for writers. Thanks for the post.
By Damon Dean, SevenAcreSky on January 6, 2017 at 12:05 pm
Mindful daydreaming is an awesome concept. I am a chronic daydreamer; I’m happy to see that I’m not alone in seeing it as a gift, not a flaw. This post is a reminder to pay attention and put those daydreams to creative use!
Thanks!
By billiesgirl on January 6, 2017 at 12:39 pm
Best ideas come to me in the pool!
By Nadine Gamble on January 6, 2017 at 1:21 pm
Thank you Tara! I’m always amazed by the difference my creative life takes when I stay present, meditate, and daydream.
By blanchebaxter on January 6, 2017 at 4:41 pm
Great advice, Tara! We all need to be more mindful and to take more time to daydream and let our creativity flow freely. Thank you for the post and for StoryStorm!
By donnacangelosi on January 6, 2017 at 5:25 pm
Taking a walk or riding my bike always seems to free up my gears for thinking. Muscle movement…story cadence…a good pair.
By mcdonaldrae on January 6, 2017 at 7:32 pm
Thank you Tara!
By Emily Robinson Goldstein on January 6, 2017 at 10:08 pm
This year I began practicing meditation each morning to help me become more mindful, but it’s amazing how distracted one can become throughout the day. At least it’s a start!
By Michelle Heidenrich Barnes on January 7, 2017 at 10:22 am
Tara,
I met a Giant Pyrenee this morning. I’ll file that away and daydream what life looks like from his perspective.
By setwiggs on January 7, 2017 at 2:41 pm
Always nice to see someone’s perspective!
By Dawn on January 7, 2017 at 3:50 pm
Always nice to hear personal perspectives.
By desertattitude on January 7, 2017 at 3:51 pm
Tara, thank you for your perspective.
By K.A.Steed on January 7, 2017 at 6:10 pm
Thanks, Tara! Some of my best ideas have come from just taking the dog outside or washing the dishes. Great advice!
By Loni Edwards (@LoniEdwards) on January 7, 2017 at 7:08 pm
Thank you. This is something I have to work on, really taking advantage of those quiet times to help develop my stories.
By Helen Latos on January 7, 2017 at 7:44 pm
I love that place between sleep and dreaming, between day and daydream. Ideas float and fuse, plays and novels evolve or whimsy simply dominates…I’ll try to capture more of it or at least write some of it down before it floats away…thank you!
By lorisherritt on January 7, 2017 at 11:43 pm
Thanks, Tara! I just spent an hour with a gal helping us to meditate mindfully. I’m now a big fan. Of course, I daydream also–sometimes about mindfulness!
By Marcia Berneger on January 8, 2017 at 2:46 am
Ugh, my comment got lost. So I’ll just say “thanks” this time. 🙂
By Bethanny Parker on January 8, 2017 at 4:36 am
In 2nd grade my teacher wrote on my report card “daydreams too much” Ha.
By Lisa Freund on January 8, 2017 at 11:53 am
Great post! I think you’ve shown me why I’m so conflicted about “wasting time daydreaming.” I’m dedicating this whole month to mindfully thinking about ideas and pursuing them, instead of mindlessly holding my breath waiting for them to arrive.
By Kim Ball on January 8, 2017 at 12:50 pm
You are positively correct regarding mindfulness and daydreaming. They truly do work hand in hand. Great post, Tara.
By angiecal76 on January 8, 2017 at 12:59 pm
Love this. It always amazes me how sitting down to write with a few free hours ahead can produce nothing… but a walk with the dog, a long shower or tedious drive are where I must whip out pen and paper.
By aidantalkin on January 8, 2017 at 1:09 pm
Thank you for the reminder. This is something most of us know we should do, but seem to forget!
By Lynn Alpert on January 8, 2017 at 5:34 pm
Thanks, Tara. For too long daydreaming and mindfulness were considered opposites, rather than partners. I love the idea of mindfully mindless.
By hdening on January 8, 2017 at 5:52 pm
I relate so much with this post, always balancing my thoughts between being present and daydreaming. I feel it’s important to stay present, but my most creative ideas come when I allow my mid to wander!
By Dana Atnip on January 8, 2017 at 5:59 pm
I think this is important for me. I’m always trying to be mindful of everything, but I find letting go hard. When I do let go it’s hard to be mindful at the same time. Thanks so much for reminding me to think even when I’m not thinking.
By Dani Duck on January 8, 2017 at 6:38 pm
I need to read more about mindfulness. It keeps popping up in my life.
By msmariana on January 8, 2017 at 11:27 pm
Wow–this post really made me think, Tara. I learned a lot about mindfulness while my daughter was hospitalized for her eating disorder. It can be very helpful…but you’re right, we also need to let our minds wander. I started taking a half our or so and sitting in a chair in a dark room before going up to bed. I think about the day and let my mind wander from there. Maybe that’s why I tend to come up with so many story ideas right before bed! Good thing I keep a notebook in my nightstand.
By Mindy Alyse Weiss on January 9, 2017 at 4:00 am
I have always thought creative play makes adults more tolerant of kids and their games. I think some times we have to learn to play again. I look forward to mining my mind! Thank you for this post.
By Deborah Allmand on January 9, 2017 at 9:14 am
This post couldnt have come at a better time for me. I need to learn to stop and just be apart of whats around me, something I have been trying very hard to do, and to allow myself to daydream. Thank you so much for your post!
By Jabeen on January 9, 2017 at 12:44 pm
Thank you
By Kassy Keppol on January 9, 2017 at 1:46 pm
In being mindful, we should also make time just to be, just to think.
I need to do this to help me with ideas. Thank you Tara.
By Kara Cargill on January 9, 2017 at 3:07 pm
Hi Zen Tara…(no exclamation point)
You are a Dreamer.
You are a Doer.
And you bake these together in inspiring ways.
Brava… (no exclamation point)
By bookseedstudio/Jan Annino on January 9, 2017 at 7:14 pm
Great advice! Not only can you be creative while you’re doing the chores, but it makes you feel good that you’re multitasking.
By Brenna Friesner on January 9, 2017 at 7:15 pm
Hi Zen Tara…
You are a Dreamer
You are a Doer.
And you bake these up in the best ways.
Appreciations & Brava…
By bookseedstudio on January 9, 2017 at 7:17 pm
Mindfulness is so hard for me! My mind constantly races. But . . . I’ve had a late night picture book breakthroughs. Thanks for this post.
By Amy M. Miller on January 9, 2017 at 7:52 pm
Thanks, Tara. Both seem extra important these days.
By Michelle Cusolito on January 10, 2017 at 5:29 am
I think I started doing this just to survive the truckloads of laundry my three boys manufacture every week. It is the bane of my existence!
By Holly Abston on January 10, 2017 at 10:52 am
I enjoyed your session at nj scbwi and would love a chance to chat with you for more insight!
By Nicole Sharkey on January 10, 2017 at 12:24 pm
“be present in the moment.” This. And “daydream.” Thank you.
By Lane M Arnold on January 10, 2017 at 4:40 pm
Thank you, Tara. Good to know there might be some benefits to my mental fog and persistent daydreams of late…
By Lucretia on January 10, 2017 at 10:45 pm
Such a good reminder to slow down. Thanks for all your hard work, Tara!!!
By Susanne Whitehouse on January 10, 2017 at 10:46 pm
I can relate to the ‘lost year’, my dad died suddenly just over a year ago and this year my mom had brain surgery, so I’ve spent the last two years lost in worry about my future. Thanks for your example of being present. Thanks also for this Storystorm that has encouraged me to daydream again and get my focus back on creating.
By Jud Ward on January 11, 2017 at 12:20 pm
Yes, be MINDFUL of when you are not MINDFUL. I like that and that is when ideas come, but are ignored by me. I will be more mindful and have a piece of paper in each room in case I’m inspired. Thanks for the encouragement to daydream.
By Marge Gower on January 11, 2017 at 10:18 pm
I’m very good at this advice! The trick is to feel productive while doing “it!” Thanks for this, Tara!
By Kim MacPherson on January 12, 2017 at 12:13 pm
The kids often hear my husband or I telling them to refocus…to give themselves permission to think differently about a difficulty. Best take my own advice.
By sandiejaarsma on January 14, 2017 at 1:21 am
Thanks for this – permission to make space for ourselves, being in our minds amidst all the doing doing doing.
By @luvthatword / Angela Dale on January 15, 2017 at 6:43 pm
Sounds like I need to find a brick oven of my own. Thank you.
By gingermeurer on January 17, 2017 at 1:36 am
Mindful daydreaming whilst doing chores! I love it as it means I can still write when I don’t have time to.
By Bruna De Luca on January 17, 2017 at 1:15 pm
Thanks so much, Tara – enjoying StoryStorm17!!
By Kate Harold on January 18, 2017 at 10:16 pm
Thank you, Tara! I love the concept of mindful daydreaming 🙂
By Jennifer on January 20, 2017 at 1:03 pm
My school report said, ‘Laura would do better if she spent less time staring out of the window daydreaming’ – little did they know my adventures ‘out there’ were far more inspiring than what was going on in the classroom and I had plans to be a ballerina, tap dancer and artist. Life took over and only many years later did I find that Einstein, according to the urban myth, had his greatest ideas whilst out on his boat and daydreaming was a good thing. It took a while to oil the cogs of daydreaming again and reignite a passion for story and illustration, so it’s good to hear that those that we aspire to validate the daydreamer.
By Laura on January 21, 2017 at 5:57 am
Sometimes I mind, other times I don’t mind… 😉 Finding the balance is the the tricky part! 🙂
By rosiepova on January 23, 2017 at 11:26 am
I’ve often been accused of being a daydreamer. I relish it!
By Jill Tadros on January 24, 2017 at 2:37 pm
What a great insight to see the connection between mindfulness and mind wandering! Now the task of finding that magic place between the two and letting the ideas flow. Thank you.
By Cindy Jolley on January 25, 2017 at 8:01 pm
Thanks for this wonderful article. It reminded me that I need to daydream more – instead of letting my mind stay in a rut, constantly thinking about real life and the struggles that go with it.
By Cindy E. Owens on January 27, 2017 at 6:33 am
It’s nice to be reminded that day dreaming is ok. I get so caught up sometimes in what I have to do and what needs to be done that I forget to just let go sometimes!
By Kelly Parker on January 27, 2017 at 11:46 am
Re-reading this one today as well as the Day 1 post – they are both re-encouraging me to stay positive and hopeful and in my writing in the midst of chaos and doubt. Thank you!
By Amelia Shearer on January 28, 2017 at 4:21 pm
Tara I really enjoyed this post. As some who suffers with anxiety and negative self-talk, I have been working on meditation and being mindful, instead of the never ending worries and concerns that seem to be constantly streaming in my head. That said, there are times when I think I NEED or WANT to ponder, to daydream, to get lost in thought. I think I need to divert my worrying mind to my creative mind and use those times to come up with story ideas. Thank you!
By Tasha Hilderman on January 30, 2017 at 2:57 pm
“Be mindful of when you are not mindful” POWERFUL!! I love it Tara! Beautifully written post and so inspirational! I love to daydream but also realize I have to pay attention.,.its a fine line we trace, this writing life! Phew!! Thank you for this wonderful post! Good luck to you in all of your endeavors!
By Kelly Vavala on January 31, 2017 at 7:56 pm
Very inspiring post,Tara.*** Powereful, helpful words. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.<3
By Dina on February 12, 2017 at 10:29 am