Do you need to solve a problem, be more creative or think of a new idea? Forget playing with toys or brainstorming with a group. Go zone out. That’s right. Just stare off into space…

Daydream.

While daydreaming may be frowned upon in class and at work, it could be one of the best ways to discover new solutions and ideas. Ever noticed how you’ll remember that person’s name after walking away and letting your mind wander.

In a June 19, 2009 Wall Street Journal article, researchers believe that our brain may be most actively engaged when our mind is off somewhere else. That’s when a fresh way of looking at things, a new idea or the solution to a problem pops into our head.

So, please don’t bother me the rest of the day. I will be sitting at my desk with my eyes closed solving complex problems.