Creative work is often lonely. Most creative work requires long hours and deep thought. Personally, I think one of the most creative jobs out there is computer programming. It requires an incredible amount of problem solving. Unlike most other professions, when you make a mistake as a programmer, you can’t simply ignore it. Add to this that computer programs are ridiculously complex. There are many complex operations happening at the same time, and each of those operations is only one part of a much larger whole. It requires being detail-oriented and thinking holistically. A problem with computer code might be solved with minor problem-solving skills, or it might require the programmer to think of an innovative solution.

Computer programmers fit the stereotype of the isolated creative worker quite well. It’s difficult to be detail-oriented when you don’t have a quite environment. It’s difficult to think through the implications of each line of code if you can’t finish your own thought.

Computer programming is consistently ranked as one of the best jobs for introverts. There’s a natural fit between the introverted personality, the work computer programmers need to do, and where they need to do it. Introverted people don’t just survive in this environment, they thrive in it. When it comes to programming, introverts have clear advantage over extroverts.

Isolation is important, whether your an introvert or extrovert. Your ability to get creative work done depends a lot on how much time you spend in isolation. The more time you spend in environments with low stimulation, the more you’ll find creative ideas bubbling up to the surface of your mind.

Highly stimulating environments can cut off creative thinking. You can either take information in or you can work with the information you have. You can’t do both at the same time. There’s a time and a place where chaotic, high-energy, stimulating environments. They can benefit creativity when used properly. But all the new information you learn from that stimulation is worthless if you don’t also spend time in low-energy, low-stimulus environments where you can gather you thoughts and think through all the implications of an idea.

As you’re creating today, make it a point to find isolation. Meditation is the most powerful strategy you can use, but you don’t even have to go that far. Anything you do to lower the normal level of stimulation you get will benefit your creativity. Give yourself time to gather all your thoughts.