A Healthy Imagination: More Than We Give It Credit For

An Exploration of Imagination (Part 1)

How important is imagination? Let’s start with a few definitions:

Imagination is:

• the ability to form a picture in your mind of something you have not seen or experienced
• The formation of images that are not present to the senses
• The ability to confront and deal with reality by using the creative power of the mind; resourcefulness
• The power to call up mental images – either something previously perceived (like lying on a beach during a past vacation) or entirely new (picturing yourself on that cruise you’ve been wanting to take)

Why am I giving you so many definitions of imagination? Because while imagination is often thought of as something only children indulge in, it’s actually a vital skill we use all the time. Imagination helps us solve problems, create new products, gain knowledge about the world, empathize with others, manage difficult emotions, and so much more.

For instance, daydreaming (which combines knowledge and imagination) may seem like a distraction, but it is actually very useful in boosting creativity and self-control. It allows people to tune out distractions and focus on positive, long-term goals. Picture this: visualizing yourself winning a sports medal can motivate you to eat right, exercise, wake up early, and train for the prize.

Imagination is unique to humans, and it isn’t just for “creative people.” Yes, it’s what helps writers create new characters and musicians compose new melodies, but it is also what empowers engineers to design innovative solutions and scientists to develop groundbreaking theories. It is the incredible ability to create a mental representation of things that are not present in the physical space around us (Markman et al., 2009).

Psychologists use imagination to help patients tackle challenges such as grief, stress, depression, substance abuse, parenting issues, fear, and even PTSD.

The Threat to Imagination

This is why it’s crucial to take seriously the negative effect technology is having on the imaginations of our children. For kids, imagination is essential for development – it drives creativity, problem-solving, and vital social skills like communication and empathy.

Seeing the impact technology had on my own kids' imaginations inspired me to create my books and start my company. That same passion drives my ongoing exploration of imagination, its many benefits, and what we can – and must – do to nurture this incredible skill in the younger generations.

Join me as I dive deeper into this topic over the coming months (see Part 2 in the series: Encouraging Creativity: Why Imagination Matters). If you're curious to learn more, stay tuned for new insights, research, and ideas; and check out some of my earlier articles on related subjects:

Balancing Screen Time for Kids: 3 Effective Strategies

The Impact of Excessive Screen Time on Children’s Behavior and Emotions

Technology Addiction Statistics: A Wake-Up Call for Parents

More resources on imagination:

15 Reasons Why Imagination Is Important? by Curious Desire

Imagination by Psychology Today

Imagination: Definition, Benefits, & Examples​ by Berkely Well-Being Institute