Default Mode Network and Its Importance for Problem Solving and Creativity. đź§
In this article, we’ll explore an intriguing perspective on the brain’s natural process and how it influences the lives of programmers.
This “mini-article” is based on serious and proven scientific studies. Several articles on the subject can be found on the internet, and one of them will be referenced at the end.
What is the Default Mode Network in our brain?
The Default Mode Network refers to the state in which multiple regions of the brain work in synchrony, collecting information from different parts and combining them to generate new knowledge, deductions, and problem-solving. This state is associated with overall brain activity and creativity.
How to allow our brain to enter this state?
The Default Mode Network is activated when we rest from cognitive activities. This means it becomes more active when we disconnect from tasks that require our attention, such as when we sleep, wash dishes, take a bath, or engage in light physical activities like walking.
Why is it important to know this?
For programmers, who spend most of their time in front of computers or smartphones, it is crucial to understand the difference between true rest and engaging in low cognitive-demand tasks. Watching a movie, playing games, or checking social media may seem like a break, but these activities keep our attention engaged, preventing our brain from entering this active rest state. Therefore, it is essential to reserve moments of genuine rest, involving relaxing activities that do not demand much from us.
Why is this process important for programmers?
First Point: Resting between Problem-Solving Tasks It is extremely important for programmers to allow their brains to truly rest after periods of intense focus on problem-solving. We know that programming constantly involves finding logical and creative solutions to real-world problems using technology. Additionally, we need to deal with other challenges like bugs and logical errors that we create ourselves.
Second Point: While working on the code, we can solve most problems during typing and code development. However, there are those bugs that you don’t know where they come from or how to solve them. They burn your neurons for hours, and you can’t seem to find a solution until you give up or decide to rest. Suddenly, during a shower or before falling asleep, “BANG”, the solution to the bug appears! But how??!! I wasn’t even thinking about the code! Well, thank your brain for entering the default mode network because it was in that moment that it connected the pieces of everything you had been working on, stored the frustration of not being able to solve the problem, and tested new possibilities. When it found a probable solution to the logic problem in your algorithm, it alerted you consciously and presented you with the solution on a silver platter! Amazing, isn’t it? Many people underestimate this process, but this is how the creativity process works. It serves to solve many of our problems, and our brain is always active, even during rest, albeit in the background!
That’s why you can come up with a better argument for a discussion you recently lost while taking a shower. That’s why new and brilliant ideas emerge during this process to solve your own problems.
Conclusion
Whether you are a programmer, designer, or any other professional who needs to solve problems or create new things, study extensively and expand your repertoire of ideas spread across the world. Fill yourself with knowledge, but when it’s time to rest and creative blockage arises, stop what you’re doing and allow your brain to rest. Work with the information you already have. Go for a walk, have an acai bowl, or do something that doesn’t require cognitive effort, allowing your brain to create new connections. If ideas don’t come immediately, repeat the process as many times as necessary. Respect yourself! Take care!
If you enjoyed this mini-article, check out my article on combating chronic procrastination while preserving your mental health: https://medium.com/@saulogscatunda/procrastination-how-to-fight-it-according-to-neuroscience-mental-health-899ad8f02641
If you’d like to connect with me on social media:
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https://www.linkedin.com/in/saulo-catunda/
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https://www.instagram.com/saulocatunda.dev/
Reference: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41380-021-01403-8
