Definitions of Mindlessness

What exactly is mindlessness? There are many definitions, such as ones from dictionaries, intellectuals (i.e. psychologists, researchers), the media and bloggers. In some ways, these definitions agree, but often they are contradictory.

Miriam-Webster dictionary defines mindlessness in many ways.

• marked by a lack of mind or consciousness

• marked by or displaying no use of the powers of the intellect

• requiring little attention or thought

• not intellectually challenging or stimulating

The Berkeley Well-Being Institute uses the following phrases in defining mindlessness.

• a state of unawareness

• going through the motions without being consciously aware of your surroundings or your inner states

• being on autopilot or responding robotically

• without conscious awareness of what you are doing, thinking, or feeling

The Cambridge Dictionary’s definition is

• the quality of being stupid and meaning nothing (Ouch!)

• the quality of not needing much thought or mental effort

Ellen J. Langer, Department of Psychology, Harvard University. An avid researcher into the positive effects of mindfulness, Ms. Langer defines mindlessness as (Langer, 1992)

• a state of mind characterized by an overreliance on categories and distinctions

• oblivious to novel aspects of the situation, functioning by rules and routines

• habit, functional fixedness, overlearning and automatic processing

• when we believe we know something well

• relying on distinctions drawn in the past

Amongst all the negative definitions, there are references to mindlessness that can be found in the concept of MindlessnessX. First, a brief description of MindlessnessX:

• Simple

• Enjoyable

• Interruptible

• Allows wandering thoughts

• No self-judgement or punishment

• Reduced cognitive focus (i.e. less brain power)

• Has a goal and sense of accomplishment

• Most importantly, gives our mind a break

Looking at mindless definitions above, many sound good considering we’d like a break from concerted effort in dealing with the world and the crazy thoughts running through our heads.

• Requiring little attention, thought or mental effort

• Going through the motions without being aware of your surroundings or inner states

• Minimal information processing

• When we believe we know something well

• Relying on distinctions drawn in the past via rules and routines

We are running in a world of endless cognitive focus. Giving your mind a break with a "mindless" activity is a good thing. Enjoy your MindlessnessX!