Does your team make time to think?
As a team, you’re trying everything to get on the same page, hit your targets and collaborate like the high performing unit you are.
Yet for some reason you just can’t.
You can invest in more training, resources or another workshop, but sometimes you just need to go back to basics and make time for the simple things that we often take for granted.
And a big thing a lot of teams forget to prioritise?
Time to think.
Far too often action is favoured over thinking and it’s easy to fall into the trap of focusing on doing things that offer tangible results. Especially during times of uncertainty or when things are going wrong, most people’s reaction is to work harder and throw themselves into ‘doing’ mode. When actually, you just need to take some time out to stop and think.
Think about it… How often have you taken time out, gone on holiday and came back recharged, motivated and full of fresh ideas? Or the solution you have been working so hard for just pops in your head when you’re in the shower or out for a run? That’s because you’re removed from the daily chaos and noise, and actually have a chance to form and develop ideas.
The most successful teams and individuals know when to charge ahead with action and when to hit the pause button for some quality thinking time; it’s all about finding the perfect balance.
So how do you do that? Here’s a few strategies to get you started.
1. Apply the rules of Nancy Kline’s ‘Thinking Environment’
Although ‘thinking’ is something everybody does pretty much every waking moment of the day, creating the right environment is what takes it to the next level. Author and speaker Nancy Kline sums it up in her book “Time to Think” where she talks about a concept called the "Thinking Environment".
Focused on helping your team collaborate effectively, it’s about creating a space where people can genuinely think, reflect, and express themselves without interruption, leading to higher quality of thinking. This approach fosters an inclusive and respectful atmosphere where every thought and idea is valued.
By implementing the ten principles of the Thinking Environment, you’ll encourage your team to dig deeper into their thoughts, resulting in innovative solutions and more meaningful discussions.
2. Add it to the diary
You need to set aside time to reflect on any challenges you might be facing and to think about your work and goals - both individually and as a team.
Make sure to schedule these slots in your diary, whether it's once a day, a few times a week, or even a monthly dedicated session. You should treat these sessions as non-negotiable, just like you would with any other work commitment.
By doing this, you’re not only making sure you’re utilising the power of thinking for creative, strategic and innovative solutions, but it highlights the importance of the ritual and makes it become the norm for the whole team.
3. Turn off distractions
From social media notifications and email alerts, to knocks on your door and urgent requests, the working day is full of interruptions that can make thinking feel impossible. To be able to think and reflect properly, you need to get rid of as many distractions as you can. That could mean blocking out your diary, turning off phones or even leaving the office for a quieter location.
You don’t have to take it as far as Microsoft's Bill Gates who prioritises his thinking time so much that he spends two weeks a year in a secluded location to contemplate his company's future uninterrupted. But you need to remember that once you’re distracted, the brain has to find where it was, reassess the situation, and then make the effort to get back to that stopping point. If you’re not actively blocking out distractions then that will add up to a massive amount of wasted time and missed ideas.
4. Clear boundaries
Boundaries are absolutely essential when it comes to making time for thinking. On a personal level, if your default is always to be in ‘action’ or ‘busy’ mode, taking time to stop and think will take some time to adjust to and you need to be holding yourself accountable.
As a team, it helps to keep you all on the same page and ensure you’re making the time to think as a collective. Set a clear structure for your thinking time and consider how long you will spend, how often and the environment you need.
5. Take Regular Breaks
It might sound counterproductive when you have a long list of jobs to get through, but sometimes the best thing you can do is take a break. It’s a common misconception that the harder you work, the more productive you are. In reality, there’s plenty of research to show that taking time out recharges your mind, reduces stress and improves your overall productivity.
As an extra win, these breaks can be used as opportunities to decompress, reflect and think. Step away from your desk, take a walk, or simply relax in a quiet area and let your mind wander. You'll be amazed at the insights that can emerge during these moments.
One last thing…
High performing teams aren’t the default and Braver Leaders Team Coaching focuses on providing you with the tools you need to be the cohesive unit you have the potential to be.
Book in a chat with me here to find out about the different workshops and coaching programmes available.