Abstract

We propose that creative writers develop a sense of identity that is strongly grounded on their awareness of the mind wandering process. As creative writers develop their expertise, they gain a better knowledge of the creative process. Specifically, they become mindful mind wanderers. That is, they make temporally extended insight problem solving a core part of their self and their life story. Specifically, creators make mind wandering part of their life story by means of four processes: acknowledging extended time, developing trust in incubation, incorporating the creative process as a part of identity development, and recognizing the positive impact of creativity on overall well-being. We illustrate these processes with excerpts from interviews of four Chilean poets.