According to Bloomberg Billionaires Index, Jeff Bezos – the founder of Amazon currently has a net worth of $197 billion and is the richest person in the world. Meanwhile, Bill Gates – co-founder of Microsoft ranks fourth with $146 billion.
Besides their enormous wealth, Bezos and Gates share one common trait… they both enjoy washing dishes. In a 2014 interview with Business Insider, the Amazon founder shared that washing dishes is part of his daily routine. “I believe this is the most charming thing I do,” Bezos said.
In the same year, Gates revealed on the social media platform Reddit that he also enjoys washing dishes. “I wash the dishes regularly – others volunteer, but I like the way I do it,” the billionaire shared.
While each billionaire has their own reasons for their preference, scientists suggest that washing dishes has many benefits. Some independent studies show that washing dishes can reduce stress and enhance creativity.
A study from Florida State University found that people often focus on their breathing and sensory activities (touch and smell) while washing dishes. This helps reduce stress and increase inspiration. Additionally, focusing on the sensation of soaking hands in warm water or the smell of soap stimulates brain activity.
Another study from the University of California, Santa Barbara, found that repetitive tasks like this allow the brain to relax and can generate creative ways to solve problems.
Jeff Bezos and his ex-wife MacKenzie divorced in 2019 after 25 years together. Recently, Bill and Melinda Gates also announced the end of their marriage after 27 years together.