Somewhere between the second video call and the third email thread of the day, it’s worth asking: does this conversation really need a chair?
What Changes When You Walk
Walking meetings trade the conference table for a sidewalk, and the change is bigger than it sounds. Conversations tend to get shorter and more direct — nobody wants to walk in circles rehashing the same point. Ideas also seem to flow more easily; there’s decades of research suggesting that walking measurably boosts creative thinking compared to sitting.
When They Work Best
Walking meetings aren’t for every conversation. They shine for one-on-ones, brainstorming sessions, and anything that benefits from a looser, less formal tone.
Good candidates
Check-ins, feedback conversations, and early-stage idea sessions all translate well to a walk.
Better left at the desk
Anything that needs a shared screen, a whiteboard, or careful note-taking is usually better done sitting down.
Making It a Habit
Start small — one walking call a week is enough to notice the difference. Keep a notes app open on your phone for the occasional idea worth capturing, and don’t worry about hitting a step count. The point isn’t exercise; it’s a different kind of attention.
