Whatever you do, don’t think.

In his book, “Don’t Believe Everything You Think” Joseph Nguyen makes the distinction between thoughts and thinking. The concept is intriguing. The idea is that thoughts are what pop into your mind. Thinking is when you spend effort to actively ponder a topic. Interesting, right?

Most-probably, your first issue with this statement is whether or not it’s true. Most people believe that they, themselves, are actively thinking every thought. They can’t distinguish between something that came into their mind from somewhere else and something that they are creating in their mind. If this is where you are, this is good because testing this theory out will be an enlightening experience for you. You can do this by simply watching your thoughts for a while. If you do this, you will see that much of what is on your mind was introduced by something other than you.

Another way to examine the workings of your mind is to try to anticipate what your next thought will be. Try it. You can’t do it. You can’t create your own surprise. This is because “thoughts” come from somewhere else, but where?

The answer to this next question varies based on vocabulary. Some use the word “subconscious mind” to describe the entity that injects new thoughts and inspiration into one’s life. Others might say that it’s “infinite intelligence” that has all of the wisdom in the world. And another group will have the spiritual background to say that the outer source of new thoughts is “god.”

I am not writing about our personal definitions of the higher power in our world. The point is that it is a higher power. Whether you believe that it’s the subconscious mind, infinite intelligence or god, the fact is the same. The source is not what you would normally consider to be “you.”

On the other hand, we also can and do produce thoughts ourselves. These thoughts are the ones we are calling “thinking.” This is when you actively ponder, consider and calculate. Earlier, I asked you if you could predict your next thought. This was in regards to “thoughts.” The “thinking” version of that question could be, “list the three best thoughts you could have.” With this, we are not waiting for divine inspiration. Here, we are using our own conscious mind to decide on an answer based on information we have on hand. Do you see the difference?

In his book, Joseph Nguyen urges us not to think but to stay open to receiving thoughts. This is for two reasons. This is because, when you rely on thoughts instead of thinking, you are getting an upgrade. Sorry to say it but, your subconscious mind, infinite intelligence and god are all smarter than you. It makes sense to say that it’s best to get your information from the best source possible. Also, eliminating thinking should reduce all of the anxiety we cause ourselves by constantly trying to control the world with our limited understanding.

For the purpose of my point, it was important that I explain this concept but the concept is not the point of this piece. You could read Joseph’s book for that. Instead, I am writing about how applying the concept effected my life and whether or not you should use it too.

I should start by saying that I have been a voracious consumer of all things meditation, mindfulness, Buddhism, Taoism, Law of Attraction and, most recently, meta-physics for over ten years. I credit my practices for the beautiful life I currently enjoy. What’s telling about this book is that it was one of the most profound and enlightening experiences I’ve had on my journey. Even after reading thousands of pages on the same general topic, this book made an impression on me. In a space that includes such people as Alan Watts, Tony Robbins and, even, the Buddha, Joseph Nguyen has made a splash. Bravo to him.

So, I tried it. I tried not to think my own thoughts and tried to stay open to receive divine thoughts instead. It was difficult and nowhere near perfect, of course. But, the experience was calming. If you try not to actively think for any period of time, you will see that the attempt relaxes you. My mind was quieter than it’s ever been. It felt good.

I also felt relief. It was relieving to get permission to stop trying to figure everything out. I am giving you that same permission now. All of our lives, we are anxious to maintain control over every little thing in our view, moment by moment. But, when you remember that, by not thinking, you are open to receive better answers to life’s questions, you realize that your anxious efforts aren’t the best option. I’m sure that your shoulders will drop in relaxation if you try it yourself.

My creative energy increased. Since i was causing less interference with my pondering and calculating, more creative inspiration was able to enter my mind. It came to the point where I was making sure to have a notebook on hand at all times to write down all of the (awesome, if I say so myself) new ideas that have been coming to me. This aspect makes “not thinking” an essential practice for any artist or creative person.

I was also more confident. When I fully internalized the idea that there is a higher power, right in my own head, that knows way more than me and wants me to succeed, I became fearless. Why would you be afraid with the power of god on your side?

The experiment led to a commitment on my part. I have decided to never forget this lesson about thoughts and thinking. Although not a habit yet, I expect to integrate it into my life forever. With that, I fully expect a life that’s calmer and happier than the one I had lined up before this new knowledge. It’s that good. I recommend you read Joseph Nguyen’s book or, at least, apply the “no thinking” practice right away.

Namaste.

Burak Uzun is an award-winning writer and a Certified Meditation Teacher.

Burak Uzun also co-wrote a feature film called Team Marco, which was featured in over fifty film festivals around the globe and was distributed by Samuel Goldwyn Films.

Please feel free to reach out to Burak here.

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