Imagination is a deeply human tendency. We spend a significant portion of our conscious lives in the realm of imagination (e.g., daydreaming, mind wandering). Imagination occupies an important place in the lives of children as they immerse themselves in games of make-believe (having imaginary friends).

Imagination can be thought of as a speculative mental activity (Dacher, 2025). We can project ourselves into another situation and see or think about the world from another perspective. The content of our imagining remains available only to us, unless in some way expressed by us. Imagination is essential to human flourishing. Imagination enables us to think about possibilities and go beyond existing constraints. Imagination allows us to escape from the monotony of everyday life (i.e., when stuck in a boring meeting or on a long train ride).

There are several different ways to use one’s imagination (Gosetti-Ferencei, 2018):

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