Many people work too much. Worse, in many places, there’s a culture that radiates that working harder is better and leaving the office early is looked down upon. Not only does this work culture lead to too much stress, but it’s also counterproductive. A lot of research on creativity shows that “aha” moments tend to follow a common pattern. First, comes immersion, an intense period of throwing yourself completely into what you’re working on. Then comes incubation, wherein you step away from your work and allow your mind to wander. And before you know it, you get insight (eureka!). This explains why so many people report having breakthrough ideas in the shower, during or immediately following exercise, upon first waking from sleep, or while on vacation.
Research shows that taking breaks is just as vital as hard work
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