BUSINESS STRATEGY
But in actual fact , the opposite can be true . As American humorist , Josh Billings , once said : “ Half of the troubles of this life can be traced to saying yes too quickly and not saying no soon enough .” Learning to say no to tasks when you don ’ t have time , capacity or ability will give you time to think and focus on what ’ s in front of you . It ’ s important to remember , too , that saying no can almost mean saying ‘ not right now ’.
While it may seem daunting at first , over time , colleagues will come to respect your boundaries enabling you to spotlight your focus on the work which really matters .
Mastering this skill is crucial to becoming a more strategic worker who pauses to think and consider the best approach forward , rather than working in a reactive manner , firefighting as issues come up .
Daydream away daydreaming as a frivolous , time-wasting activity , crucial research has actually shown that it ’ s a key part of the neurological creative process . It ’ s also been linked with clearer cognition , improved productivity , lessened stress and an overall boost in happiness . In other words , it enables us to achieve an ideal state for achieving great work .
So , how to do it ? The ideal daydreaming state is often best engaged through mundane or repetitive tasks . In other words , taking some time away from your desk to go out on a walk or tick off some chores from your list is the perfect opportunity to let your mind wander freely . And that ‘ freely ’ part is crucial , as dwelling is not the same as daydreaming .
The idea of working daydreaming breaks into your daily working life can seem intimidating at first , but the proof is in the pudding . Make space for some mind wandering at work , and you ’ ll soon find the benefits speak for themselves .
Chris Griffiths , Founder , ayoa . com , and Author
This may be the most controversial bit of advice for achieving bare minimum Mondays , but it ’ s also the most important . While many of us think of
Chris Griffiths and Caragh Medlicott have co-written a book called The Creative Thinking Handbook . x
www . intelligentcxo . com
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