mind-wandering
Mind-wandering refers to the phenomenon where a person's thoughts drift away from the task at hand to unrelated ideas or memories. This can happen during activities that require little mental effort, such as driving or listening to music. It often occurs spontaneously and can lead to creative thinking or problem-solving.
Research shows that mind-wandering is a common experience, with studies indicating that people spend a significant portion of their waking hours in this state. While it can sometimes be distracting, it also plays a role in self-reflection and planning for the future, allowing individuals to explore different possibilities and scenarios.