WASHINGTON – Some of the world’s most successful people had their greatest ideas in the bathroom and beyond.

The Huffington Post reports that rock-and-roll legend John Lennon said the idea for the song “Being for the Benefit of Mr. Kite” came to him after looking at a poster in an antique shop.

British novelist J.K. Rowlings got her idea for Harry Potter during a long, crowded train ride, according to The Huffington Post.

Psychologist Shelley Carson, author of “Your Creative Brain,” tells The Boston Globe little interruptions and distractions can provide the mental break that may lead to innovation. Carson says creative thinking can improve productivity at home and work as well.

So go ahead and take that bathroom break or shower. The next great idea may be just around the corner. Read more famous great ideas at The Huffington Post.

WTOP’s Stephanie Gaines-Bryant contributed to this report. Follow @WTOP and @WTOPliving on Twitter.