Ever catch yourself so deep in thought that reality seems to fade into the background? Maybe it starts with a simple daydream—an imaginary conversation, a fictional adventure, or a perfect version of yourself. But before you know it, minutes (or hours) have passed, and you’re completely lost in a world of your own creation.
Daydreaming is a natural part of life, but for some, it’s more than just an occasional escape. Do your daydreams feel more like epic sagas than passing thoughts? Do you find yourself replaying scenes, creating characters, or feeling an itch to return to your imagined worlds? If so, you might be wondering: Is this just an active imagination, or could it be something more?
This quiz will help you explore the fine line between normal daydreaming and maladaptive daydreaming, a pattern where fantasies become so vivid and absorbing that they interfere with real life. Whether you’re just curious or suspect your daydreaming habits are stronger than most, it’s time to find out where you stand.
History lesson
The Stillness of Shikantaza
In a world that thrives on distraction, the practice of Shikantaza stands in quiet defiance. Rooted in Soto Zen Buddhism, Shikantaza translates to “just sitting”—a form of meditation that requires nothing more than pure presence. Unlike other meditative techniques that focus on breathing, visualization, or chanting, Shikantaza asks the practitioner to simply be, observing thoughts without attachment and embracing the mind as it is, without judgment or direction.
The origins of Shikantaza trace back to Tang Dynasty China (7th–10th century CE) and were later refined in Japan by Eihei Dōgen, the founder of the Soto Zen school. Dōgen emphasized that enlightenment isn’t something to be chased—it already exists within us, revealed through deep, unwavering awareness. Practicing Shikantaza isn’t about achieving a goal or escaping into a dreamlike state; instead, it’s about fully immersing yourself in the present moment, letting thoughts drift like clouds in an open sky.
For those who experience frequent or immersive daydreaming, Shikantaza offers an alternative approach—one that doesn’t fight thoughts but simply allows them to come and go, without attachment. It’s a practice that encourages stillness in a restless mind, reminding us that presence itself can be enough.
Whether you’re seeking balance, clarity, or simply a moment of quiet in an overstimulated world, Shikantaza invites you to stop searching and start sitting.
Quiz Writer
Gennie dances through life with the grace of a leaf caught in a playful gust. That is to say, she continuously finds herself moving to the ever-changing rhythms of the world around her. She often shares stories of swaying to the melodies of Vivaldi and Chopin and a touch of Ella Fitzgerald during her early years. Gennie never misses a beat, whether she's penning evocative stories that resonate deeply or solving intricate puzzles that challenge the mind. Currently, she's weaving words for her upcoming book, a title she playfully keeps a secret. Dive into a conversation with her, and you'll quickly find yourself captivated by her tales, riddles, and the vibrant energy she brings to every encounter.
Did you know?
Some People Spend 60% of Their Day Lost in Fantasy
It's true—maladaptive daydreamers can spend up to 60% of their waking hours immersed in their fantasies. Unlike casual daydreaming, these imagined worlds can be so vivid and structured that they interfere with work, school, and relationships. Some even create long-running storylines, recurring characters, and entire fictional universes that feel more engaging than real life.
How to Play?
Our personality quizzes are set up a little differently than your basic trivia quiz, but you’ve probably seen their kind around. Rather than having to choose the right answer from a list of multiple choice options, in this case, there is no “right answer”! (Two plus two will always be four, but every Golden Girls character is equally awesome.)
So, stop stressing. Just click on the answer that suits you best, and enjoy the ride. These quizzes are just for fun but who knows – you might just learn something about yourself along the way!
About Heywise
Get knOwledgeable! Heywise is where entertainment and trivia meet, like a turducken of fun. Anytime. Anywhere. Since 2017, Heywise has been a leader of quizzes on the web, on mobile devices, and across social media.
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