Many of us are under time pressure, tied to our phones so that we can stay on top of work and home. It becomes difficult to stay off the phones, laptops, todo lists and find time to reflect.
Yet, reflection is important. It gives one a chance to pause and figure out what is important. Yet, what is reflection and how do busy people find time to reflect?
All the busy people do reflect but not far an extended period. They practice the art of reflection using the small pauses, gaps in their calendar to help them make better decisions.
Four principles can be followed for a calmer and productive life. It provides a template for sound reflection in a hectic life.
Aim for good enough
Finding time was the biggest obstacle to reflection. Many were controlling their thoughts dancing all over the place or felt restless taking time to pause and reflect. Again it was easier for managers to focus on here and now rather than sometime into the future with its inborn uncertainties. many find it easier to sit down and answer the latest emails rather than pause, reflect and put down their thoughts on paper.
To pursue this objective, let go of the idea that we must reflect in a time-consuming way and instead aim for good enough. Find an approach that one finds comfortable, something that one enjoys doing. It can be done while pursuing your hobbies like gardening, caring or your pets, cooking etc., or it can be done while driving a car when there is no one to disturb your thoughts. It does not have to be lonely. you can take advice from trusted colleagues or parents, friends.
Downshift occasionally
Contemplation is the first step to reflection. At work, many foci on output, racing to complete the job with high intensity and focus. One should find ways to slow down, letting minds unfocus resisting the urge to be productive. During meetings take time to look around and pay attention. Look up from the computer screen and take a break from your tasks. Leave the office early, once in a while, make way slowly using the time to unwind and reflect, take a walk in the garden or look out of the window for a few minutes to consciously slow down. Take time to celebrate success or progress however small it is.
Ponder your hard issues
The second approach is pondering. That means stepping back and looking at a problem from different perspectives. You can do this in a variety of ways. imagine the consequences for each alternative, write/draw the outcomes on paper however incongruous it may be. It is essentially about looking at an issue from a variety of viewpoints without necessarily trying to solve it.
Pause and measure up
The third approach involves measuring up. This is relevant especially when you have to make a decision and act on it. It is critical to step back and reflect on the best option in terms of the standards you have set for yourself. Think of what your role models would do under these circumstances. Follow your principles established based on your previous experiences.
Reflection promotes growth. It can enhance your life and work if you develop a pattern of reflection and occasionally step back to reflect more deeply on your work and life.
Without reflectin, you drift. Others will shape and direct your life. With reflection, we can decide on our life and take control.
OK Reflection: The Pause That Brings Peace and Productivity
by Dina Gerdeman
HBSWK 2020/07
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