Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon and Blue Origin, does not stick to a strict schedule and allows time for creative thinking during his meetings. He believes in “mind wandering” and values the freedom for his ideas and those of his team to develop organically. This approach includes what he calls “messy meetings” where discussions and brainstorming can take as long as necessary to come up with innovative solutions to problems. Bezos believes that allowing the mind to wander can actually boost productivity, creativity, and happiness, despite some people viewing it as inefficient.
Some productivity experts recommend time blocking, where specific time slots are allocated for different tasks throughout the day. However, this method can lead to stress and burnout, as mentioned by Yale University psychology professor Laurie Santos. Studies have shown that allowing the mind to wander can improve creativity, as seen in a 2016 study of college students. For those who find a packed schedule overwhelming, giving the mind space to wander could lead to considering new ideas that may not have surfaced otherwise, as long as it is done purposefully and not as a form of distraction.
When faced with a problem at work or school, taking time to let the mind wander can be a productive way to come up with solutions. By stepping away from distractions and allowing ideas to flow freely, one can explore various possibilities and discuss them with colleagues to find the best approach. For Bezos, this approach involves running ideas through initial scrutiny before presenting them to a group for further development. This collaborative process can be both enjoyable and result in practical solutions to challenges.
Bezos emphasizes the importance of presenting ideas with an open mind, acknowledging that objections will arise but encouraging collaboration to refine the idea. He values the challenge of turning a concept into a fully formed solution and believes that working together to address objections can be a positive and rewarding experience. By fostering an environment where ideas can be freely shared and explored, Bezos encourages creativity and innovation within his teams.
Overall, Bezos’ approach to mind wandering and creative thinking highlights the benefits of allowing space for ideas to develop naturally. By prioritizing exploration and collaboration, rather than strict time constraints and structured schedules, he has fostered an environment where innovative solutions can emerge. This emphasis on flexibility and creativity in problem-solving can inspire individuals to think outside the box and find new ways to address challenges in both personal and professional settings.
