Life has become one big hurrisome journey. It’s go – time seems to be the first thought I wake up with most mornings. And the world itself seems to echo my sentiment with all the advertisements about on-the-go meals, on- the- go meal replacements, dietary supplements for people on-the-go and such and such. Need I elaborate?
Does one ever really get the time to stop and smell the proverbial rose. Time to reflect and truly be in the present without feeling the pressure of the clock ticking. I would suffice it to say – many don’t.
We have become caught up in a rat race and a never-ending cycle of do – do – do. I think it’s safe to say that it’s even become part of who we are, if we’re not busy we’re not being useful. In relation to our working lives, research has proved, however, that the opposite is true – being busy does not always equal being useful. Rather, these studies show that we become more productive. Taking some space leads to:
- Reduced stress levels and avoidance of burnout
- Enables your mind to become refreshed and; therefore, more focused, more creative
- Encourages work / life balance and; therefore, a much more well-rounded, happier you
What if I suggested something crazy and encouraged you to regularly take some “me” time? It’s called having a “think time”, time totally to yourself (by yourself) using this time to stop, pause, breathe and connect with your true authentic self, and strategizing over your business. Time to take care of yourself and to give yourself, and your business, some much needed TLC and thought. Our bodies can only operate to a certain level and in order remain mentally, physically and spiritually alert a much-needed break is sometimes required. Bill Gates regularly does this, and his business speaks for the benefits.
Since 1989 Gates has taken a sabbatical, a “think week” if you will, to escape the noisiness of life, to be by himself. He spends this time thinking and strategizing. You can check out the series “Understanding the brain of Bill Gates” on Netflix if you’re interested in learning more. If Bill Gates could see the necessity of doing this, then it should be a no-brainer for all of us. Take time to stop, reflect and re-calibrate.
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