Learning Challenge: Alone with My Thoughts

Quote by Tine Seeliig. Image by Melissa W Edwards Source: flickr

For this H.E.A.R.T challenge, I read the article Think Less, Think Better by Moshe Bar. I wasn't sure what to expect from the H.E.A.R.T challenges, but I am already enjoying it!
In this article, Dr. Bar shared his results from research he performed exploring the conditions under which we are most creative. He said that while  people believe creativity comes about when we are focused and have lots of time to think, Bar's research theorizes that creativity is a result of a cleared mind and thinking quickly. Bar's conclusion is that the brain wants to naturally follow, new, creative pathways. But we actively pursue familiar territory because it is safe and we believe correct. I thought what was most interesting was how people under shorter time limits came up with more diverse words, such as associating clouds with the word white instead of black.
When reading this article, I thought to my own recent creative block. Next semester, I will take honors research. Because I'm doing my research in the French department, I need to decide on what I want my thesis to cover so that I can then find a professor whose specialization would cover my topic.  I've been frustrated that I can't really think of anything specific I truly want to study, and none of my ideas have been in any way "creative". It seems like a waste to spend a semester researching something that has been beaten to death. Reading this article, I realized I haven't cleared my mind to actively find a topic. I think of it in passing, a few minutes here and there. When I don't think of something quickly, I move on or go back to whatever lead me to thinking about this.
What's interesting about this article is that it doesn't feel groundbreaking. However, the more I think about it, the more I realize I hardly ever focus on one task, clearing my mind of all others. My roommate has recently begun dedicating more time to meditation, and I am interested in joining her. It is cool to think that not only would meditation improve my mental health, but also my creativity!