Written Thought Record
In this practice, we identify the number of thoughts we have in three minutes.
This allows us to become more mindful of just how quickly our mind can be running.
This allows us to become more mindful of just how quickly our mind can be running.
To begin, you’ll need a something to write in (notebook/loose paper/even a digital note file is fine) and a writing utensil if you’ll be writing by hand. Pick a place you’ll be comfortable sitting for a few minutes that’s free of interruptions. Silence any potential distractions. Sit comfortably, and begin breathing mindfully. Inhale 1-2-3-4 and then exhale 1-2-3-4-5. After a few slow breaths, set your timer for three minutes and begin writing down every thought you have. Don’t try to capture your thoughts word-for-word, instead try to write something that represents each one. For example, if you think about a project for work or school that’s due by the end of the week, write “work project” or “school deadline.” Then record your next thought. Repeat this process for the entirety of the three minutes.
See how many of your thoughts you can record in the three minute time period, regardless of how small or insignificant they may seem. If you think about the practice itself, write “writing" or "thought exercise,” or if you think about the texture of the desk under your paper, write “paper-feel” or “desk.” This list is private, so don’t worry about your handwriting and try to be honest with your record.
Once your timer goes off, count the number of thoughts you recorded over the three minutes. Are you surprised by the amount of thoughts you experienced? Multiply your result by twenty to get an estimate of how many thoughts you might have in an hour.
See how many of your thoughts you can record in the three minute time period, regardless of how small or insignificant they may seem. If you think about the practice itself, write “writing" or "thought exercise,” or if you think about the texture of the desk under your paper, write “paper-feel” or “desk.” This list is private, so don’t worry about your handwriting and try to be honest with your record.
Once your timer goes off, count the number of thoughts you recorded over the three minutes. Are you surprised by the amount of thoughts you experienced? Multiply your result by twenty to get an estimate of how many thoughts you might have in an hour.