Work Less – Think More.

I love music. When I listen closely to a piece of music, I notice the ebb and flow, the crescendo and diminuendo. I also notice the silences. Those composers who understand the value of silence use it to create powerful moments where anything’s possible. I believe the same can be true in business—if we just take time to think.

 

It’s easy to fall into the trap that tells us more work will yield more or better results. We’re constantly bombarded by messages that suggest we can do it all. The reality is that our best comes out when we are focused on a few key activities. Most times, focus doesn’t just happen. Focus comes from clear thinking.

 

Clear thinking doesn’t just happen either. It takes time. “But who has time to think,” you ask? I’ll tell you. Those that make thinking a priority. In other words, if you value thinking, you’ll make time for it.

 

You know the phrase “pregnant pause”. Why is it called “pregnant”? Because what comes next is a new creation, how it will look is anyone’s guess. It might even be a miracle. It’s true in music. It’s true in life. When was the last time you experienced a deep silence like that?

 

As you compose the symphony of your life, try using silence to create a new world of possibilities. Set aside time just to think. As you work less and think more, your work will become more focused and aligned and the symphony you create will be more powerful and memorable because of the silences.

 

Written by Andrew Ranson  Andrew@giantpartners.biz