Feeling stuck mid-sentence or during a test? Here’s how to get back on track when your ideas disappear when you need them the most.
You’re in an exam sitting silently at your desk, staring down at the sheet of paper in front of you, desperately trying to think of what to write. You know the answer is hiding somewhere inside your head, but it just won’t come to you.
Or maybe you’re talking to someone and want to make a good impression, but when they ask for your opinion, your mind goes blank, and you can’t find a single word to say.
Having thoughts escape you like this can be incredibly frustrating. It’s upsetting and stressful to find yourself lost for words in an assessment or conversation. But it’s actually normal, and something that lots of people experience.
TIPS FOR MIND BLANK MOMENTS
Zoé’s six suggestions for coping with coming up blank:
1 USE MUSIC TO TUNE IN
If you know you’re going to go into a situation like an exam, where your mind might go blank, try listening to music beforehand. Choosing an uplifting, energising song can be good for putting you in a positive space. Singing along to the lyrics in your head helps re-engage your thinking brain, as you have to remember the words.
2 REMEMBER A HAPPY MEMORY
Think of a happy event, such as a fun birthday party or your favourite holiday. Recalling this happy time helps reactivate your memory in a positive way.
3 GET CHATTING
If you can, talk to someone in person. Speaking aloud gets your brain and body back into the moment and reduces the stress response. Talking to somebody else also reminds your brain that you’re not on your own in this situation.
4 SMILE TO YOURSELF TO RELAX
Take a moment to smile softly and relax your shoulders. This signals to your brain that you’re actually fine, that there’s no threat and you can relax and get back to the logical thinking state.
5 LOOK UP TO THE SKY TO REGAIN CONFIDENCE
You don’t need to lift your head, simply direct your gaze upwards. Doing this sends a message to your brain that you’re feeling confident. If you’re in an exam when blankness strikes, just looking up at the ceiling for a moment can help reactivate the thinking part of your brain.
6 SLOW YOUR BREATHING TO REST YOUR MIND
Your brain listens to your lungs. If you’re feeling stressed and anxious, your breathing will speed up, so slowing it down and focusing on the breath will help you feel calmer and back in control.
WORDS: Caroline Butterwick
ILLUSTRATIONS: Anna Uvizheva
This article was originally published under the title A Mind Blank Moment in Issue 46 – In Your Own Time. You can get this issue here to enjoy more mindful inspiration.
