There’s a Difference Between Being Alone and Being Lonely

“Imagination is the highest form of research.” —Albert Einstein
 
 
Ever have a good idea pop into your head, seemingly out of nowhere? We all have, but I bet it didn’t happen when you were heads-down working on a project, facing a demanding deadline, running late for a meeting, yelling at the stupid drivers who cut you off, or in the middle of some other intense experience. I bet it happened when you were in the shower, going for a run, hiking, listening to music, or doing some other solo task that relaxed you.
To make room for new ideas, we must take a break from the intensity of our work, and sometimes even a break from other people. At least that’s my “take.” Research shows that taking just a five-minute break and going outside is restorative.
Would it surprise you that Albert Einstein was a loner? He got his ideas while playing his