WeWork Founder Adam Neumann Credits Shabbat Observance for Best Ideas

Adam Neumann, the Israeli-born co-founder of the workspace company WeWork, recently shared how his decision a decade ago to observe Shabbat, the Jewish day of rest, has profoundly benefited his life and creativity. Neumann explained on the business podcast 'The Diary of a CEO' with host Steven Bartlett that disconnecting from technology for 24 hours each week allows for deeper self-reflection and idea generation.

Neumann described the initial challenge of abstaining from his phone, noting how frequently one's hand reaches for it, highlighting technological addiction. However, he stated that after this initial phase, engaging in planned activities like dinners with friends or spending time in nature leads to a feeling of well-being. He asserted that some of his most significant ideas, including insights on personal relationships, business focus, and future strategies, emerge during this period of rest and disconnection.

Bartlett, the podcast host, expressed his admiration for Neumann's unique depth and perspective, contrasting him with many other CEOs he has interviewed. Bartlett reflected on Neumann's resilience, particularly in the face of WeWork's significant challenges, including a drastic reduction in employees from 13,000 to 3 within a week following a failed IPO. Bartlett noted Neumann's ability to maintain belief in himself during times of crisis.

Neumann, who served as CEO of WeWork for nearly a decade after co-founding it, saw the company expand to 156 locations globally, including six in Israel. He is now the founder and CEO of Flow, a real estate and residential company, with an estimated personal fortune of $2.8 billion. He is married to American-Jewish businesswoman Rebekah Neumann, and they have six children.