Famous People Who Used Standing Desks

Many think standing desks are a new concept. However, they have been used for hundreds of years by many successful people—people who changed history and made a lasting difference. Here's a list of some of them:

1. Ernest Hemingway
One of the most inspiring writers of the 20th century, Hemingway was very fond of his standing desk. He composed many of his iconic works while standing. How much of his creativity and productivity came from this ergonomic habit?

2. Leonardo da Vinci
A name synonymous with creativity, Da Vinci is the quintessential Renaissance man. He was one of the most productive figures in history. Understanding the science of the body, Da Vinci paid close attention to blood circulation—no wonder his famous Vitruvian Man was standing. He clearly saw what many others missed.

3. Sir Winston Churchill
Perhaps the most famous politician of the 20th century, Churchill led England through the darkest days of World War II. He was known for working at his standing desk, a habit that may have supported his resilience and energy.

4. Virginia Woolf
It wasn’t only successful men who used standing desks. Virginia Woolf, one of the foremost writers of the 20th century, was an innovative and influential author. Her stand-up desk in her family home in Kensington witnessed the creation of a vast number of letters, diaries, essays, and stories.

5. Thomas Jefferson
Author of the Declaration of Independence and the third president of the United States, Jefferson exuded presence and power. Much of it was reflected in his posture, which he maintained tall and straight while working at his wooden standing desk.

Isaac Newton once said, “If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” Perhaps these giants saw further because they stood—literally. Standing desks may have helped them avoid illness, stay energized, and maintain better circulation and cognitive function.

Final Thoughts
The long history of standing desks, used by some of the most brilliant minds, highlights their potential to boost creativity, health, and performance. If these great individuals found inspiration on their feet, it’s worth considering how a standing desk could enhance your own workspace today. Embracing ergonomic solutions might just be your first step toward greater productivity and well-being.