To Be Future-Ready, Sometimes You Need To Be Unfocused

Happy Summer! I don't know about you, but in my part of the world, it has been hot, hot, hot! The beginning of July was the perfect time to get away from the office to relax and recharge after a busy first half of the year. And having this time to stop and reflect got me thinking about how important it is to have time to unfocus your attention.

Throughout our lives, in school and at work, we're told to stay focused! Focusing will help us?be productive. Focusing will help us be successful. But is that always the case?

According to recent research, focusing too much can lead to the opposite of productivity and success. This is because too much focus can deplete your energy and leave your brain feeling exhausted.

So here's my hope for you this summer: whether you're cottaging, camping, embarking on a grand adventure, or planning a staycation, give your brain a break and take some time to unfocus. This will allow you to focus more effectively when it matters, so that you can navigate the future with confidence, no matter what comes up.

If you're not sure how to start, check out this Harvard Business Review article?for some great tips – all backed by science!?

5 Minute Advice For Authors

This time last year I was recording the audiobook version of Spark Action with the amazing team at Twin Flames Studios. Working with them was such a great experience, so I was thrilled when they invited me to be a part of their 5 Minute Advice For Authors podcast!In this episode I share:

• Key insights from Spark Action
• Tips for jumpstarting the writing process
• What I learned about the process of recording an audiobook

If you've got five minutes, I hope you'll check it out! Listen here.

Thinkers360 Top 50 Global Thought Leaders and Influencers on Change Management 2024

A big thank you to Thinkers360 for naming me as one of their?Top 50 Global Thought Leaders and Influencers on Change Management 2024!?Helping leaders, teams, and organizations navigate the future of work to create change that matters is at the core of my work, and it's an honour to be recognized for the impact of this work.

Thanks for reading and supporting my work! I hope you can take some time to relax and unfocus your attention this month.