How it began
Throughout her management career, Anne Barrowclough noticed a growing issue—workplaces were becoming increasingly task-driven and technology-reliant, leaving little space for reflection, creativity, or genuine mental rest. Breaks were no longer about recharging; instead, they were spent catching up on emails, scrolling through devices, or grabbing a quick coffee before diving back into work. Productivity was measured by constant busyness, not by the quality of thought.
But in one office, something stood out. Every afternoon at 3:00 p.m., a staff member led a 10-question quiz. Employees paused their work, engaged enthusiastically, and afterward, the energy in the room shifted. Despite the short break, people returned to their tasks with renewed focus—right at a time of day when productivity often slumped. One participant summed it up perfectly: “I feel like my brain has had a break while thinking about everything and anything, not just work.”
"I found that precisely because I give my attention space to roam, my thinking is sharper, and I have better ideas."
Johann Hari, Stolen Focus: Why you can't pay attention.
This moment sparked Anne’s curiosity. She began researching the science of unfocus—the practice of stepping away from concentrated effort to let the mind wander. She discovered that when the brain enters an unfocused state, the Default Mode Network (DMN) activates, helping to retrieve memories, link ideas, and foster creativity. Experts like Dr. Srini Pillay, Johan Hari, and Moshe Bar emphasized how reducing cognitive load enhances problem-solving, broadens perspective, and improves overall well-being.She quickly realized the profound impact of unfocusing on mental clarity, innovation, and resilience—both in and outside the workplace. What was missing was a simple, accessible tool to make this practice easy and effective. And so, the idea for Wander120 was born.
Collaborative Design
Throughout the development cycle the Wander120 app has continued to evolve. Neuroscientists, academics, industry leaders, employees working remotely or in the office, the young, the old have all helped to shape the final product. While the app has evolved, it has remained committed to three core values:
Simplicity Accessibility Self-determination
Collaborative Design
Throughout the development cycle the Wander120 app has continued to evolve. Neuroscientists, academics, industry leaders, employees working remotely or in the office, the young, the old have all helped to shape the final product. While the app has evolved, it has remained committed to three core values:SimplicityAccessibilitySelf-determination
Backed by international research
Tested in market in 2023, and launched 2024, Wander120 delivers a mind wandering microbreak of 120 seconds providing you with a reminder and the tools to give your brain a break, and to step off the treadmill of output. Take some time to recharge and refresh the brain. Take some time to let your thinking drift and be open to new ideas, concepts, and expansive thinking. It’s simple and quick to use, and is ready to turn on whenever you need it. Make mind wandering part of your day! "Even the wildest dreams have to start somewhere. Allow yourself the time and space to let your mind wander and your imagination fly." Oprah Winfrey
Need to recharge your mind? Take a Wander.
Wander120 offers a rich collection of thought prompts for your mindful 120-second micro-break. This simple yet powerful practice of positive mind wandering helps you shift away from draining thoughts, allowing you to refresh, relax, and reset your mind. It creates the mental space to regain focus, manage brain energy, and boost both mood and productivity.Start today.
