The Happiness of Not Thinking

One of the most well-known phrases in philosophy is, "I think, therefore I am," from the 17th-century French philosopher René Descartes. The statement is usually taken to mean that the act of thinking generates our sense of identity, and that without thought we would cease to exist. But strictly speaking, Descartes was arguing that the only thing in the world we can be sure of is that we exist, because we have the ability to think. We can doubt everything else—even that the sun will rise tomorrow morning—but so long as we are thinking, we can’t doubt our existence.

Two Types of Thinking

It’s important to note that there are, broadly speaking, two different types of thinking. On the one hand, there is rational, conscious thought, when we think deliberately and logically to make decisions and plans, organise our lives, and solve problems. These are the powers of reason that we use in philosophy and mathematics. This type of thinking is a great tool, and we are right to value it highly.

Associational thinking can sometimes be pleasurable—daydreams and pleasant memories, for example. However, in general, "thought chatter" has a very negative effect. It creates a sense of disturbance inside us, as if our minds are out of control. It also reinforces our sense of separateness, rooting us inside our mental space, in duality to a world which seems to be out there, on the other side. Thought chatter also gravitates towards negativity. It’s easy to become trapped in negative thought patterns, which can give rise to self-dislike and depression.

The Happiness of Not Thinking

Most of the greatest experiences of our lives occur in the absence of thinking. For example, one of our most pleasurable experiences is the state of "flow," when our attention is absorbed in challenging and stimulating activities, such as playing music, dancing, writing, or reading. Ideally, we might have a stimulating job that provides us with regular experiences of flow. One of the reasons why flow equates to well-being is that we stop thinking. As our attention merges with an activity, our minds become quiet and empty. We may even completely lose self-awareness.

Thought as a Tool

I certainly don’t believe we should stop thinking altogether. As highlighted above, conscious thought is necessary and useful. The most ideal human state would be for us to think whenever we need or want to. Thought should be a tool that we pick up when we need it, and then put down again. Then we can return to the harmony of a state of mental quietness.

Source: https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/out-the-darkness/202210/the-happiness-not-thinking

How do you think thinking or emptying the mind can contribute to our well-being?

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