Innovate Like a CEO: Harnessing the Power of Think Time
Nancy (Faessen) Michieli
Expert Engineering Communication and Collaboration Coach | Champagne Connoisseur & Keynote Speaker | Helping Leaders Excel In Communication and Team Collaboration
In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, where every second counts, it is remarkable how some of the greatest ideas are born in the most unexpected places.
But what if you could make this magic happen more often?
Get Your Best Ideas In the Shower?
"Think about it: your daily shower, that cozy water cocoon, your personal 'Eureka' zone.
Shampoo bottles transform into brainstorm buddies, and the soap dish becomes your trusty sounding board.
In this 'clean-spiration' chamber, as the world's problems spiral down the drain, your brightest ideas rise like bubbles.
So, is your shower your secret source of clarity and creativity?
Picture this: You, in the shower, where shampoos and soap are your trusty brainstorm buddies. ?????
Now, let's talk business.
Do you strive for an impact as a CEO?
CEOs like you dream big, and not just about a bubble bath!
Do you aim to make a superhero-sized impact? So, back to the shower.
Is it your secret source of genius ideas, even business ones? ????
Well, guess what?
You're not alone!
Get ready to turn your 'shower thinking' into super business moves.
Cape is not required!
Are reputation, efficiency, and financial worries stopping you?
Let's shift gears and dive into the business pool. ????
Are you sometimes bogged down by reputation concerns, work efficiency, or financial worries, so you are focusing so much on doing the work?
It happens to the best of us.
But here's the thing: these worries can be like anchors holding your business boat back.
They often keep us working in the business instead of on the business.
So Busy? You miss business growth.
Time flies when you're busy, doesn't it? ???
But here's the kicker: if you're too busy, you might miss out on business growth opportunities flying right past you.
The busyness may be partly the reason for your worries.
Why? Because you don’t have space to allow those “Aha” moments from the shower to show up in your day.
So, what's the solution?
The Solution for You Is The CEO's Think Time.
According to a study by Harvard Business Review, 80% of CEOs reported that they spend time thinking about the long-term vision of their company and strategies for growth.
Imagine that!
Now,
about how implementing a think-time routine can unlock your business's potential.
Speaking of routines, let's talk about Implementing A Think Time Routine
It's not just about carving out a few minutes here and there.
It's about creating a habit, a routine that fuels your creativity and problem-solving skills.
Are you ready to make thinking a part of your daily, weekly, and monthly routine?
Mastering the Daily Think-Time Routine
In the fast-paced world of business, finding that precious 30-minute block for daily reflection can be a game-changer.
Here's your strategy:
But here's the catch – it's not about constant productivity.
It's about gazing out that window, deep in thought.
So, hit pause on the distractions; computers, phones, messages – they can wait.
This daily ritual will soon become your secret weapon for clarity and innovation.
Ready to give it a try?
Next Unlocking the Power of Weekly Think-Time
In the weekly quest for clarity and innovation, carve out a dedicated 1-3 hour block.
It might feel uncomfortable at first; after all, you're a hard worker.
But trust me, it's worth it.
Leave your office behind; go for a walk in nature, find solace in a park, or sit by a serene lake.
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The change of scenery is your ticket to deeper insights.
Send out the 'do not disturb' signal to everyone, and silence your phones and messages.
Embrace the quiet and let Mother Nature be your muse.
These weekly sessions will soon become your treasured moments of creative revelation.
Ready to embark on this journey of reflection?
The Monthly Think-Time Retreat
Once a month, it's time to step out of that office and treat yourself to a day of relaxation and inspiration.
Whether it's a round of golf, a movie day, or a delightful combination of both, it's time to infuse fun into your routine.
Here's the magic: while you're having fun, inspiration and ideas will naturally find their way to you.
As you relax, innovative solutions will flow like a river.
You see, slowing down allows your mind to connect seemingly unrelated ideas into brilliant solutions. It's like seeing the world through a different lens.
So, mark your calendar for these monthly retreats.
They're not just breaks; they're your secret weapon for creative genius.
Ready to enjoy some monthly think-time?
The Quarterly Think-Time Intensive
Every quarter, it's time for an intensive think-time session.
Clear your schedule for 2 full days dedicated solely to reflection and strategy.
Start by celebrating your wins and examining what went well in the business over the last quarter.
Define your goals and vision.
Identify any missed opportunities and explore adjustments or new approaches.
Take four focused hours to gather and analyze data, then put away the calculator.
Shift into deep reflection mode, jotting down notes and ideas.
Go for a walk or immerse yourself in nature to continue the reflection process.
By the end, select a couple of your best ideas and set a clear path for their implementation.
These quarterly deep dives will propel your business toward greater heights.
Ready to take the plunge into your next quarterly think-time?
The Yearly CEO's Working Vacation
Prepare to step into the CEO role like never before with your annual think-time week.
It's your CEO's working vacation, though it might not feel like work at all.
Each day, sprinkle in some play, allowing your creative energies to flow.
Then, dedicate a few hours to reviewing the previous year's results, creating your vision, and setting goals that reach for the stars.
Consider what shone brightly and deserves amplification, and don't hesitate to clear the clutter – those things that didn't contribute.
By the end of this week, you'll emerge refreshed, motivated, crystal clear, and ready to embrace the new year with unwavering focus and determination.
Are you ready to embark on your CEO's working vacation?
Transitioning to Think-Time
Taking extended breaks might seem like a daunting prospect for hard-working, driven CEOs like you.
However, the potential payoff is nothing short of incredible.
To ease into this transformational practice, my recommendation is to start with something manageable.
Begin with a daily 30-minutes or a weekly 1-hour session.
These bite-sized beginnings can gradually evolve into the longer think-time routines we discussed.
Remember, even the smallest steps toward reflection and clarity can lead to monumental leaps in innovation and success.
So, are you ready to take that first step?
Dream Big
"Now, let's dream big! Imagine charting a course for your business's exciting journey of scaling with speed.
With the power of 'shower thinking,' the clarity of a CEO's vision, and the routine of think time, you can navigate uncharted waters, turning your dreams into reality.
Buckle up; it's going to be an exhilarating ride!"
Would you like a clarity moment? Book a Focus Finder Session with me, and I will help you develop your next 90-day strategy to scale your business.
Founder, The Jean Collective, a Woman in Politics Initiative
1 年So many great ideas here, Nancy! You’re right, we get so busy managing multiple details & strategies that we don’t let ourselves have ‘think time’. Off to the shower I go!