The Best Handful of Tips 62 –

Make time to think

Thinking time is essential for solving problems and hatching new ideas. Good ideas need to be well thought through – they need ‘incubation time’.

            The way you think determines the way you act and the way you act will decide not only your future but also the future of your business.

The best five tips on ways to think and plan

1. Get organised

If you set up good communication systems and learn to delegate certain jobs to others, you will have more time to read and to think.

            Decide to set aside this precious time and guard it intensely. Time is what we want most , but what we use poorly. Those who make the worst use of their time are the first to complain about not having enough time.

2. Find a quiet place to get away from distractions

Avoid interruptions. Inform assistants and your colleagues  you do not want to be disturbed.

            Find a quiet hidey-hole to do your important tasks, to think and plan.

3. Periodically turn off your cell phone

Don’t become a slave to your cell phone. Turn it off from time to time. People can always reach you by e-mail.

            Refrain from constantly reading your e-mails. (E-mails should be read and answered at specific times, not when you get bored. Not all the time.)

4. Plan your “thinking time“

Some people prefer to wake up early and lie in bed and make plans for the day. Others arrive at work early. It is amazing how much you will achieve in your first hour if you have it to yourself.

            We all have a 24 hour day. It’s how we use that time that makes the difference. Value your time – it’s a diminishing resource but always plan for thinking time. Try to do your urgent work first, then slow down, relax and start communicating and move into your planning and thinking times.

5. Make use of your travel time

Travelling also gives you time to think.

            Get away from your work place. Visit different environments. Attend training courses. This lets you to see things through new eyes, gives you new ideas and a new perspective.

            Go for long walks somewhere quiet to think about your life, family and your work.

            Today start to devote your time to your critical issues. Concentrate on important matters.  Make time to think things over and plan your life career steps.

-Geoffrey Moss

“The full use of today is the best preparation for tomorrow.”

Source: “Time-Savers”, Moss Associates Ltd, New Zealand and “Time Management Secrets” Cengage Learning Asia, Singapore. Also available as an E-book from Amazon.com.