Finding Inspiration in the Gaps: The Power of Free Time
As we move into the summer months, the quote by psychologist Amos Tversky resonates more than ever: "The secret to doing good research is always to be a little underemployed. You waste years by not letting or not being able to waste hours." This notion of being slightly underemployed is not about doing less meaningful work but about creating space for creativity and reflection.
The Wisdom of Wasting Time
Summer often promises a slowdown, a chance to breathe and relax. Yet, for many of us—especially busy parents or professionals—the reality often contradicts this promise. The quest for efficiency leads us to overschedule our lives, leaving no room for idle moments. We strive to avoid wasting any time, but in doing so, we may end up wasting years.
The idea of not having any wasted hours means there’s no time to wander, and as someone once wisely said, “Not all those who wander are lost.” Wandering can be a path to discovery, creativity, and unexpected insights.
The Creative Power of Showers
Think about the shower experiment: when do most people get their best ideas? It’s usually in the shower, a finding backed by cognitive scientist Scott Barry Kaufman. In his study, 72% of participants reported having creative ideas in the shower, more so than at work.
Why the shower? Kaufman explains that by temporarily disengaging from the problem at hand, our subconscious mind continues to work on it in the background. Meanwhile, our conscious mind is free to make new associations and connections. This incubation period is crucial for creative breakthroughs. The shower, then, is a place where we can relax, disengage, and let creativity flow.
Finding Your Personal Sanctuary
But we can't spend all day in the shower. So where else can we find this mental space to unwind and think creatively? It varies for everyone. For some, it might be taking a walk in nature, while for others, it might be a quiet corner in a local library. Personally, I find that the library is my sanctuary. When I walk in, my mind shifts gears. The calm atmosphere helps me breathe easier and focus on my creative projects.
Overcoming the Over-Scheduled Life
This brings us back to the core issue: our drive for hyper-efficiency often leads to overscheduling. To counteract this, we need to deliberately carve out time for ourselves. It’s not easy, especially when balancing work, family, and personal commitments. Saying no to colleagues or limiting your kids' activities can be challenging, but it’s necessary for our well-being.
The Benefits of Scheduled Free Time
A quote from Morgan Housel encapsulates this well: "A successful person purposely leaves gaps of free time on their schedule, can feel inefficient, and it is so many people do not do it." This may seem counterintuitive, but these gaps are where creativity and productivity flourish. Leaving room for free time allows for those much-needed moments of relaxation and reflection.
Embrace the Summer Slowdown
So, as we embrace the summer season, let’s take inspiration from Amos Tversky and Morgan Housel. Aim to waste a little time. Find your special place, whether it’s a library, a park, or even a quiet spot at home. Allow yourself to slow down and think, not just about work or family but also about yourself. It’s in these moments that creativity blooms, and new ideas emerge.
As you plan your summer, remember to leave some open spaces in your schedule. Take an extra shower if you need to. Give yourself the freedom to wander and let your mind explore. You might be surprised by the creative insights and solutions that come to you in these seemingly idle moments.
This summer, let’s strive not for hyper-efficiency but for balance and creativity. Allow yourself the luxury of wasted hours and discover the richness they bring to your life.