All the decisions I’ve made that have positively impacted my business have come as a result of carving out dedicated time each month to think. For 4-6 hours, I turn off the phone and stop checking email. During that time I look at my “Urgent and Important” list, but I also think about “Not urgent but important” issues. I consider feedback from employees on agency issues and improvement suggestions. I look at balance sheets and bottom lines. I consider our resource mix.
In addition to my “thinking block” each month, I joined an executive leadership group that requires 2-hour roundtrip each month. While I was really dreading this trip (because I HATE to drive in traffic), I find really creative strategic thoughts pop into my head during that time that positively impact our business.
Get off the tactical treadmill at least once per month…your business will thank you for it.