For a long time, I’ve known that I’m more creative when working in a coffee shop. In fact, I should be a venti shareholder at Starbucks by now based on the number of soy lattes I’ve purchased while developing material or writing a column.
Interestingly, a recent research study at the University of Illinois confirmed that we actually do our best thinking in a coffee shop instead of a quiet office.
Apparently, a moderate level of background noise promotes creativity. Of course, since I work in a home office, I can assure you that a moderate level of teenage background noise does not have the same effect. But in a coffee shop, the murmur of caffeinated conversations does the trick.
For me, this is the exciting part of personal development – finding new and creative ways to be successful in life and work. I’m delighted to know that there is scientific evidence to support my trips to Starbucks. I will definitely show my wife the research results when our card bill comes in at the end of the month.
Where do you do your best work? If you’re feeling stuck or uninspired, perhaps you need to try a new environment. Try your local coffee shop. You might just find that you’re a latte more productive!