Take Time to Reflect

Take Time to Reflect

As we near the end of a tumultuous and consequential year, socially distanced and avoiding large gatherings, now is the time to begin to build a habit of reflection. At first it may seem strange to sit alone and ponder. It might feel counter-intuitive and counter-productive. What I’ve learned is that the discipline of reflection helps us assess and learn from the past and prepares us to better face whatever tomorrow or next year may bring. 

To reach our potential and be an effective leader, we must carve out time for reflection, for review, for insight.

Winston Churchill, the prime minister who led Britain to victory in World War II, often stole away during stressful seasons for quiet moments—just himself and his cigar.

For many years now, my practice has included waking in the early-morning hours—to sit, to pray, to think. I’ve found that if it doesn’t happen then, it doesn’t happen at all. Once I’m engaged in the day’s work, I tend not to slow down as the day wears on.

All the people of impact I know carve out time away from life’s hustle and grind to simply sit with their thoughts. They understand the value of replaying the tapes, of reviewing, of assessing, of solitude. Another thing they all seem to grasp? The practice of reflection cannot be rushed.

Rushing around like a headless chicken may be a way of life for some people, but it doesn’t have to be for you. I know this can be especially difficult these days, when some blinking, buzzing, chiming piece of technology is always close at hand, demanding our immediate attention. Reflection brings its own reward, but it requires putting distractions aside.

Back when I was in corporate life, I remember noticing that the higher I went up the ladder, the more pressure there was to make decisions for other people—and consequential decisions, at that. I learned to practice what I call a “pre-decision pause.” When I felt myself being pressured for a decision of significance, instead of rushing to judgment and blurting out a yes or no, I would say, very calmly and plainly, “I’m not ready to make a decision.” I would request the extension I thought was necessary—another hour, another day, another week—to come to a confident choice, and I would suggest we reconvene at that time.

Sometimes, I have felt great pressure to please people by answering quickly just because someone was waiting to hear. I’ve learned to take whatever time I need to make a wise and thoughtful decision. During that time, I seek guidance. I reflect. I think. I pray.


Yauka A. LIRIA

Consulting in research, program reporting, peace building, public policy, national security/intelligence

1 年

Thank you. You message resonates very well with me. In my own private life, I was, at times. wondering if my processes and actions such as regular solitude, meditating, mindfulness, review of the week or month, and reflection in quiet was a "crazy thing" I was doing each month or so! Now, I am so grateful to read this piece from someone such as yourself as I am able to connect well with your message and the leadership tips here. Again, thank you. for this piece.

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Cassandra Huggins

Administrative Assistant

3 年

I hate to rush into things when there are other urgencies to solve. I Am a person with a zeal of determination. Persistency is my golden key. “ mama taught me well if at first you don’t succeed try and try again you will succeed at last with been persistent.

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Carly, I love the idea of the “pre decision “ pause- to reflect, to pray to seek guidance. What a grand way to set the tone for the new year as we do indeed have much to reflect over the past year & glean lessons for the unknown tomorrows.

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Dr. Mary Grogan

Educator, Coach, Author, Facilitator for Reflective Practice Coaching for Leaders.

4 年

Without reflection we go blindly on our way ...”Margaret Wheatley quote that guides my disciplined practice. Reflection is critical to ones’s personal and professional growth. Thank you for reminding us of its many benefits ...May your Christmas bring the gifts of peace, joy and time for meaningful reflection

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Barry N. Moore

Retired Chief Executive *Experienced for-profit/nonprofit Boards Member, Chair, Advisor*

4 年

Well said, Ms. Fiorina!

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