Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Aha moments

I've always had the idea in the back of my mind that when I'm riding my bike between uni and home, I'll have lots of time and head-space to think. I envision myself clarifying thoughts, coming up with great ideas, and otherwise developing my genius as I ride.

The reality, however, has been much different. I've been riding off and on for over a year. Throughout that time I've had bursts of riding regularly and bursts of riding only once a week. Regardless of how often I ride, though, I never have deep thoughts. Instead, my mind is focused on the road or path, on not falling off my bike, and on singing songs to myself as I pedal along the river (yes, I really do this).

But yesterday something was different. As I was riding, a thought came out of nowhere about my methodology chapter. In my head I worded a sentence just perfectly. I had to keep repeating it to myself so I didn't forget it, and the first thing I did when I got home was to write it down.

The 'aha' moment may have stemmed from my immediate pre-ride activity: a Social Justice Research support group. The conversations there must have really got my mind working. Or perhaps it was the glass of wine that said conversations occurred over. Regardless, I hope I have more of those moments, because that sentence was really, really good.

12 comments:

Anonymous said...

I ride to the Townsville Dam for my Aha moments. That or I listen to 'Take on Me'

Vegan_Noodle said...

YOu've inspired me to get my bike out of the garage and go for a ride.. maybe I'll figure out what I want to do with the rest of my life (that would be quite an aha moment!)....

Unknown said...

Well done. Good that you found your muse while on your bike. It's also possible in Amsterdam, but one does have to be careful not to run over a tourist while shouting "Eureka!"

Alicia said...

hahaha, so you were riding your bike, and suddenly a bright light bulb appeared floating in the air, because you had a great idea! It's usually the moment when you think without worrying when you get the best ideas :-)

Lori- the Pleasantly Plump Vegan said...

awesome

Bianca said...

I know what you mean. I usually catch myself thinking about my next meal or what I'm going to wear the next day or something totally trivial!

Vaala ◪ said...

I LOVE those moments! I occasionally get them when I'm out running but unfortunately, having a memory like a sieve, I promptly forget them once I get back! Mostly though, it's one of the few times my head feels quieter. Riding, on the other hand, I'm not so good at so I'm concentrating too hard on what I'm doing to think outside of that.

Vicki's Vegan Vice said...

You've got something here. Bicycle rides preceded by stimulating conversations over wine could be the key the the aha moments we lack.

Please pass the sweet potato rounds.

ChocolateCoveredVegan said...

I relish in my bike rides too-- so peaceful :o)

David J said...

Well done! you managed to save the idea in memory until you could write it down! 10 points for that.
I often have amazing strokes of genius (inspiration) while riding but that darn song comes back into my head and before I know it I've totally forgotten the subject let-alone the inspired ideas that came to me.

Groover said...

I'm usually too exhausted when on my bike and the only thing on my mind is: When is the hurt going to stop? :-)

Amy said...

I know--I'm always proud of my brain when it's been working behind the scenes!