Before You Think: The Secrets of Unconscious Brain Activity
Neuropsychological studies and brain imaging research indicate that thoughts don't always arise from a conscious decision, but rather emerge spontaneously from deeper levels of the unconscious mind.
Experiments have shown that brain activity associated with a thought begins moments before a person becomes consciously aware of it.
This suggests that a thought precedes our awareness; we receive it first, then pay attention to it and assign it meaning or judgment later.
Contrary to popular belief, most thoughts are not created the moment they appear, but rather observed after they have already taken shape.
Understanding this mechanism changes our perspective on the mind, helps reduce anxiety, and alleviates self-criticism over fleeting thoughts that don't necessarily reflect a person's true values or intentions.
It also helps us adopt a calm, observant attitude instead of constantly fighting against our thoughts.
Clarity of mind is not achieved by trying to control or suppress thoughts, but by being aware of them and allowing them to pass without resistance or clinging to them. The mind, in its essence, is more like a receiver that captures thoughts than a writer who creates them with full volition.