We all drift off into our own private world every now and again - but there's more to daydreams than just wishing for a lottery win. So just what DO they mean and what can they tell us...What are your daydreams telling you?
Psychologists say we spend up to half our mental activity on daydreaming and they help us to realise our goals as well as revealing our hopes and fears. Professor Eric Klinger, from the University of Minnesota, says: "One of the functions of daydreaming is to keep your life's agenda in front of you."
What are your daydreams telling you?
The average daydreaming thought lasts just 14 seconds. But that's no reason to disregard them. In fact, Professor Klinger advises: "You need to pay attention to them; daydreaming is a valuable self-to-self channel of communication."
What are your daydreams telling you?
There are two common themes amongst daydreams. The first of these is the "conquering hero" – the daydreamer often achieves success or becomes powerful within a certain profession, such as in music or science. In a similar scenario, the dreamer overcomes a personal fear and is the subject of glowing praise.
What are your daydreams telling you?
Research suggests that men tend towards this type of daydream more than women. The "conquering hero" daydream is believed to reflect a need for control and the desire to rise above life's little irritations.
What are your daydreams telling you?
The second common type is the "suffering martyr", in which the dreamer imagines scenarios where others realise how wonderful the daydreamer really is. For example, if you've ever imagined an old flame begging for a reconciliation, you're likely a daydreaming "martyr".
What are your daydreams telling you?
The "suffering martyr" indicates that the daydreamer feels unappreciated and misunderstood. And it's usually the ladies that experience this type of daydream thanks to their tendency to ponder the emotional side of life.
What are your daydreams telling you?
Ever been to your very own 'happy place'? Well psychologist Cliff Arnall believes that daydreams can be therapeutic in exactly the same way. Being able to revisit a daydream that makes us feel safe or happy can help us to endure the tough times and "escapist ones, can mean you need to change something in your life".
What are your daydreams telling you?
Our daydreams change as we age. In our youth, they enable us to try out new identities and explore future possibilities. As we get older, there are fewer romantic, heroic daydreams (and a good deal less sex), but we still consider the achievable future - a new house, a new job or retirement plans.
What are your daydreams telling you?
But if is possible that daydreaming too much causes us to lose our grip on reality? Far from it – researchers Steven Lynn and Judith Rhue found that daydreaming heavyweights are no less well-adjusted than their lightweight counterparts. In fact, they may experience a creative edge over others. So there!
What are your daydreams telling you?
Your teachers, parents and employers may say you've got your head in the clouds, but Professor Klinger insists: "Daydreams help us to get the most our of our brain power, and are an essential personal resource for coping with life." So enjoy your time in the clouds – it might just inspire a whole new future.
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