Secrets Of Bill Gates-Jeff Bezos Creativity, Washing Dishes Becomes A Source Of Inspiration

JAKARTA - Who would have thought, simple activities such as washing dishes could be a secret behind the big ideas of world leaders. Behind the busyness, wealth, and stressful schedules, some of the most influential people, from Bill Gates to Jeff Bezos still take the time to stand in front of the sink and finish their own pile of dishes. Not just a household habit, this activity turns out to have an extraordinary effect on how the brain works.

With wealth that allows them to employ many staff, Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos could actually never touch sponges again for life. But the reality is different.

Jeff Bezos once admitted that washing dishes was a mandatory part of his night routine.

"I wash dishes every night. I think this is the sexiest thing I do," Bezos said, quoted from the Times of India website.

Bill Gates also mentioned the same thing in a question and answer session. He admits that he prefers to wash his own plate because he likes the way he does it. If the two busiest figures in the world still spend time on this simple job, of course there is a reason.

Many people experience the same thing as the idea arises while bathing, sweeping the house, or when their hands are busy washing dishes. Apparently this phenomenon has a scientific explanation.

Light and repeative tasks such as washing dishes make the brain enter relaxed mode while remaining active. In these conditions, the brain takes advantage of the Default Mode Network (DMN), the part that works when we daydream or let the mind flow freely.

When washing hand dishes works automatically, thoughts are not burdened with heavy tasks, the brain is free to connect ideas that were previously cut off, and creativity is actually increasing.

A study from Florida State University has shown that washing dishes with great care (mindful) can reduce anxiety by up to 27% and increase an inspirational sense by 25%, in just six minutes.

The sensation of warm water, the aroma of soap, and the repetitive movement has turned out to be creating a very effective mental space for the brain to breathe and be creative. No wonder big thinkers often get the best ideas at the simplest moments.

Barack Obama once admitted that he missed the moment of washing dishes during his tenure because the activity made him feel calmer and more normal.

Legendary writer Agatha Christie has also said that the best time to plan a book is when washing dishes. Given that he produced dozens of novels and sold billions of copies, obviously this is not just a joke.

In the fast era, we tend to avoid boredom. In fact, in a quiet space due to simple activities, this is the creativity of work. Next time you see a pile of plates, don't rush to feel furious.

You should think maybe a dead end work problem suddenly finds a way out, a new business idea just appears, or a solution you're looking for for days comes without being forced.

If Gates and Bezos just take advantage of this moment to treat the clarity of their minds, maybe we can also get a little bit of the magic of this simple activity.

Take the sponge and let the warm water flow. Then let the mind work in its own way. Ide genius may be waiting behind the soap foam.