How noise can help you be more creative

Next time you have to think outside of the box, head to the 'Bucks. A busy coffee joint is often all your brain needs to get a real buzz, reveal Canadian researchers in the Journal of Consumer Research.

By Alanna Glassman

Updated November 2, 2012

Woman at coffee shop, laptop, cell phone, coffee, latte, coffee mug

Tim Robberts/Getty Images

Next time you have to think outside of the box, head to the 'Bucks.

A busy coffee joint is often all your brain needs to get a real buzz, reveal Canadian researchers in the Journal of Consumer Research. They found that noise at about 70 decibels (a quiet library nook is 40) fires up creative thinking. That's because a little hustle and bustle distracts the mind just enough to allow us to think more imaginatively.

So plan to brainstorm in a noisy space and get ready for your next light bulb moment. The java jolt probably won't hurt either!

The very best of Chatelaine straight to your inbox.

FILED UNDER:

Copy link

The cover of Chatelaine magazine's spring 2025 issue, reading "weekend prep made easy"; "five delicious weeknight meals", "plus, why you'll never regret buying an air fryer"; "save money, stay stylish how to build a capsule wardrobe" and "home organization special" along with photos of burritos, chicken and rice and white bean soup, quick paella in a dutch oven, almost-instant Thai chicken curry and chicken broccoli casserole in an enamelled cast-iron skillet

Subscribe to Chatelaine!

Want to streamline your life? In our Spring 2025 issue, we’ll show you how—whether it’s paring down your wardrobe, decluttering your messiest spaces or spending way less time cooking thanks to an easy, mostly make-ahead meal plan for busy weeknights. Plus, our first annual Pantry Awards.