The stories of leaders whose sudden insights transformed their careers are almost legendary. From Julia Child discovering her culinary voice at fifty, to Sara Blakely channelling her frustrations into Spanx, to Jeff Bezos leaving Wall Street to seize the internet boom, such moments of clarity often change the course of lives. These epiphanies — sudden realisations that reshape how people view themselves — can inject personal and professional journeys with renewed conviction and motivation.
Sometimes epiphanies emerge after dramatic events, like a 9/11 survivor pursuing a lifelong dream, but they can also appear unexpectedly. Erik Dane, professor of organisational behaviour at Washington University’s Olin Business School, was intrigued by their power. Though initially hesitant to study such an elusive subject, he embarked on research that revealed how epiphanies influence confidence, leadership, and collaboration, and how they can redefine career purpose.
In a recent study published in the Journal of Management, Dane and his colleagues from Washington University, Erasmus University, and Rice University examined how epiphanies might be cultivated rather than left to chance. They found that “problem-solving daydreaming” — a playful form of mind wandering — increases the likelihood of experiencing strong work-related epiphanies, particularly among people driven to solve complex problems. Such individuals are naturally curious, and when their minds wander, they return to challenges that matter most to them.
Across several studies with MBA students and aspiring leaders, the team discovered that those who engaged in problem-solving daydreaming were more likely to report meaningful epiphanies about their careers. Workshops and coaching sessions offered space for reflection and imaginative thinking, further boosting the effect. Participants who experienced these insights reported a stronger sense of purpose in their professional lives, underscoring the transformative potential of epiphanies.
Mind wandering is effective because it loosens assumptions and invites flexible, innovative thinking. Unlike formal problem-solving, daydreaming allows ideas to flow freely, generating fresh perspectives and unexpected solutions. “By letting go of outdated beliefs about ourselves, we open the door to experiencing strong epiphanies,” Dane explained. These moments can lead to profound changes in how individuals approach their work and leadership roles.
The research carries significant implications for career development. According to Dane, people do not need to wait for life-changing events to gain clarity. Instead, cultivating environments that encourage imaginative reflection — whether in classrooms, coaching, or professional settings — can spark meaningful epiphanies. Such practices help people re-examine their paths with an open mind to change, ultimately strengthening their sense of purpose and direction.
More information: Erik Dane et al, Gaining Career Purpose Through Lightning Bolts: Examining the Strength and Psychological Foundations of Work-Related Epiphanies, Journal of Management. DOI: 10.1177/01492063251348410
Journal information: Journal of Management Provided by Washington University in St. Louis