Taking Time to Think Clearly

Voluntary hardship comes in many forms—some of which, to the outside observer, don’t look that hard. The simple act of thinking—taking time to focus on a problem—can be one of the most challenging and profitable parts of your day. Yet very few people schedule time to think.

There’s always something in your life—whether it’s in your business or your personal relationships—that could benefit from reflection and an “executive” decision. But good decisions require space. Just as you’d prioritize any other critical task, you need to prioritize time and effort to think.

Step 1: Find Your Thinking Space

In Undoing Urgency, I spend considerable time laying out a plan to create a space for focused work. This includes

• Eliminating distractions
• Creating a workspace no matter where you are
• Pre-planning your day
• And using focus aids like the Pomodoro technique

While you don’t necessarily need a whole system to help you focus and think. It helps. At a minimum, start by identifying when and where you think best. For some, the clearest thoughts come while working out, taking a walk, or even mowing the lawn. Whatever works for you, make sure it’s a quiet, comfortable space where you won’t be interrupted. If you can’t be alone, find ways to block distractions—headphones, a quiet corner, or simply facing away from the action.

Step 2: Schedule Thinking Like a Meeting

Don’t let your noodling time get swallowed by urgency. Thinking is one of the most important non-urgent tasks you can do regularly because it requires little prep time. Block off a time when you won’t be distracted, and don’t be afraid to make it a longer session. The longer you can step away, the better. Silence the notifications, turn off the phone, and let yourself truly unplug.

Step 3: Document Your Thoughts

Once you’ve had a solid thinking session, don’t just walk away and forget it. Capture those thoughts. Whether it’s in a notebook, an app, or as a voice memo, get your ideas down. It’s helpful to make a quick note of where to pick up next time so you can jump right back in.

Final Thought: Thinking is a Necessity

Taking time to reflect isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. Regular reflection leads to better decisions, clearer goals, and a deeper sense of well-being. It’s not just about moving forward but moving in the right direction. So, make the time to pause, breathe, and think. Your future self will thank you for it.