Change Your Space, Change Your Mind with Jennifer Johnson

Ever noticed how stepping away from your desk sparks new ideas? That’s no coincidence. Our environment shapes how we think, influencing creativity and problem-solving.

This episode explores the science of context-dependent cognition—how shifting your surroundings, whether through a walk, nature, or workspace changes, disrupts habitual thinking and fuels innovation. History’s greatest minds, like Darwin and Einstein, knew this intuitively, and research confirms even small changes boost cognitive flexibility.

Want to think more creatively? Try simple shifts in your routine and see the difference. Share your experiences—we’d love to hear what works for you!

Visit us at jenniferannjohnson.com and learn how Jennifer can help you build the life you dream of with her online academy, blog, one-on-one coaching, and a variety of other resources!

Chapters

• 1:12 Introduction to Environmental Psychology
• 1:40 Science of Context-Dependent Cognition
• 2:18 The Boat Effect and Other Environments
• 5:52 Practical Tips for Daily Perspective Shifts
• 6:55 Closing Thoughts and Inspiration

Transcript

Jennifer Johnson: 0:36

Today we're diving into a fascinating aspect of human psychology how changing our physical environment can dramatically shift our perspective and spark new ideas. Have you ever noticed how a walk in nature suddenly makes a work problem seem solvable, or how a weekend getaway gives you a fresh outlook on life? That's what we're exploring today. So, whether you're listening from your office, your living room or maybe even a boat, stick around, because you might just gain a new perspective. On gaining a new perspective, let's start with a bit of science. Our brains are incredibly adaptive organs constantly processing information from our environment. This phenomenon is part of what psychologists call context-dependent cognition. Essentially, our thoughts, memories and problem-solving abilities can be influenced by our physical surroundings. When we change our environment, we're giving our brains new stimuli to process. This can lead to a new neural connection, which, in turn, can result in fresh ideas or perspectives. It's like giving our brain a chance to reboot and approach things from a different angle. Now let's talk about the boat example that I mentioned earlier. There's something unique about being out on the water. The gentle rocking of the boat, the expansive view of the horizon, the rhythm of the waves All of these elements combine to create an environment that's vastly different from our day-to-day surroundings. In this new context, our brains are freed from the usual patterns associated with our regular environment and suddenly that problem you've been mulling over for weeks may seem clearer, or you may have an aha moment about a personal goal. But it's not just about boats. There's other scenarios where a change of space can lead to new perspectives, Like nature walks. Many great thinkers, from Darwin to Einstein, were known for their walking habits. The combination of light, exercise and natural surroundings can be conducive to creative thinking. Travel, experiencing new cultures and environments can dramatically shift our worldwide view and spark innovative ideas. Rearranging your workspace even something as simple as reorganizing your desk which I love or working from a different room, can refresh on your perspective. And then artistic spaces, museums and galleries, and even a local park, can stimulate our senses in new ways, leading to creative breakthroughs. So how can we harness this power of environmental change in our daily lives? Here's a few practical tips Microchanges If you can't go on a boat trip or travel abroad, try working from a different coffee shop or even a different spot in your house. Take a nature break, Taking short walks outside during your workday. Even a 10-minute stroll can help refresh your mind.

Jennifer Johnson: 5:36

Digital changes. If you can't change your physical space, try changing your digital environment. Use a new wallpaper on your computer or rearrange your desktop icons. And then mindful observation Whether you take a moment to really observe your surroundings, notice the details that you overlook usually. It can create a sense of novelty in a familiar space and then finally create thinking space. Designate a specific area in your home or your office for brainstorming or creative thinking. Make it different from your usual work area and remember the goal is to disrupt your usual patterns and to give your brain inputs to work with. I hope you're feeling inspired to shake up your surroundings a bit. Whether it's a boat trip, a nature walk or simply just rearranging your desk, Changing our environment can be a powerful tool for getting new perspectives and sparking creativity. Our brains are so incredible and capable of making new connections and generating fresh ideas when you give it the right stimuli. So next time you're feeling stuck or in the need for inspiration, try changing your space. You might be surprised at the new horizons that open up.