Steve Jobs is known as one of the most brilliant minds who revolutionized the technology and music industries. One of his greatest achievements was the iPod, a device that not only transformed the way we listen to music, but also paved the way for the creation of the iPhone.
But how did he manage to create such powerful ideas?
Contrary to popular belief, Jobs wasn't always working nonstop in the office or in long meetings. In fact, many of his best ideas came when he seemed to be doing nothing. According to former Twitter CEO Bruce Daisley, Jobs procrastinated and often "wasted time." But that's exactly what made him more creative.
Psychologist Adam Grant also supports this idea, noting that the time Jobs spent reflecting and thinking was essential to bringing new and different ideas to the table. In fact, this approach is what many creative and innovative people use to achieve extraordinary results.
What is the "2-hour rule"?
This idea comes from writer JA Westenberg, who shared her experience with the “2-hour rule” in an article. Essentially, this rule consists of creating a two-hour space per day where you don’t force yourself to be productive. In these two hours, it doesn’t matter if you look out the window, rest, or simply think without any specific purpose.
According to Westenberg, being constantly busy and under pressure to do more stifles creativity. Instead, by giving yourself a period of time to “do nothing,” you allow your mind to reflect, relax, and come up with better ideas.
This concept is by no means new. Great scientists and thinkers like Albert Einstein and Carlo Rovelli have claimed that many of their greatest achievements came during periods of “futility.” As Rovelli says, “You get nowhere without ‘wasting’ time.”
To put the “2-hour rule” into practice, Westenberg recommends a few simple steps:
• Treat this time as an important meeting with your brain.
• Turn off your phone and any notifications that distract you.
• Don't feel guilty if you just rest during these hours.
• If you can't dedicate two hours, try starting with 30 minutes.
The conclusion?
Even though you may not create a product like the iPod, the “2-hour rule” can help you come up with better ideas, feel more creative, and cope with life with less stress. In a world where being busy has become the norm, maybe what we all need is to stop and think—just like Steve Jobs.
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