Steve Jobs Swore By It—and So Does Science
When you think of Steve Jobs, you probably picture sleek gadgets, iconic speeches, and barefoot strolls through Apple’s campus. Those walks weren’t just quirky habits—they were his secret weapon for solving problems and sparking creativity.
Jobs had an instinct for balancing intense focus with moments of deliberate detachment. Walking wasn’t just a way to stretch his legs; it was his go-to strategy for tackling mental roadblocks. As legendary designer Jony Ive recalled, “So much of our time together was spent quietly walking.” From crucial discussions to groundbreaking ideas, many of Jobs’ best moments didn’t happen at a desk—they happened while moving.
Jobs intuitively knew what neuroscience now confirms: our brains aren’t built for endless grinding. Sitting still and pushing harder often leads to diminishing returns. When you're stuck, you need a mental reset—a way to break the loop of repetitive thinking and let fresh ideas flow.
Walking works because it nudges your brain into a state that’s both alert and relaxed. Here’s why it’s effective:
Jobs’ walking habit aligns perfectly with what neuroscientists like Mithu Storoni recommend: if you’re stuck for more than 10 minutes, step away and go for a stroll. This simple shift helps you work smarter, not harder, by putting your brain in the ideal state for innovation.
Jobs wasn’t alone. History is full of brilliant minds who walked their way to success. Charles Darwin, Friedrich Nietzsche, and Mark Zuckerberg all credited walking with improving their focus and creativity. For them, like Jobs, movement wasn’t a distraction—it was an essential part of the process.
At FloJo, we embrace the wisdom of Steve and the science of smarter breaks. Our voice-guided nudges remind you to step away and recharge before frustration sets in. With easy break options and fun, customizable guidance, you can experiment with your rhythm and discover your own “aha!” moments.
Sign up to try learn about other techniques on how to work smarter, one walk at a time.
