Are gaps between thoughts important?
Short Answer
They can be useful, but they’re not the goal. Gaps often indicate reduced cognitive momentum and increased presence. Chasing gaps can create tension; noticing them naturally is enough.
Why This Matters
Most suffering comes from being fused with thoughts rather than having thoughts. Mindfulness creates a gap between thought and action, which reduces rumination and reactivity. That gap is where choice appears.
Where This Changes
If observing thoughts becomes over-analysis, shift to a sensory anchor (breath, sound) or to open awareness. The goal is clarity, not endless mental commentary about the mind.