In this episode, Niamh shares practical ideas on how to create more time to think in your working day. She explains the difference between on-the-job thinking and deep thinking, and outlines four key elements needed to think more effectively: time, place, people, and headspace.
Niamh explains that while everyone wants to think more, finding the time to do so is a common struggle. After running several workshops, the main feedback Niamh received was that people appreciated the chance to step away from their daily tasks to think things through. She distinguishes between two types of thinking relevant to the workplace: on-the-job thinking for immediate, day-to-day tasks, and deep thinking for more strategic initiatives and problem-solving. The type of thinking you need depends on your role, but all jobs benefit from creating space to think.
Niamh introduces a framework inspired by Derek Draper's book Create Space, which identifies four key elements for effective thinking: time, place, people, and headspace. She argues that when these four elements are in place, we can make better decisions, feel more in control, and ultimately do better work. Niamh offers actionable tips for each element, from taking two minutes to consider an email response to finding a quiet space to focus. She also suggests that thinking can be a collaborative effort, advising that an outside perspective can help you break out of a "thinking loop".
Identify Your Thinking Needs: Consider your role and decide what type of thinking is most beneficial—quick, on-the-job thinking or more strategic, deep thinking.
Use Breaks for Big Ideas: Breaks are not just for rest; they provide the mental space needed for solutions and bright ideas to emerge.
Find Your Ideal Thinking Environment: Pay attention to the places where you think best, whether that's a bustling café or a quiet room, and seek out those spots when you need to concentrate.
Embrace Mind Wandering: Give yourself permission to daydream or let your thoughts wander. This can help you connect ideas and gain clarity without feeling guilty.
Use Simple Questions to Reflect: Use the questions "What's going well?", "What's not going well?", and "What can you do differently?" to reflect on both small and large decisions.
Welcome to The Better Workday Podcast with your host, Niamh Moynihan. Niamh is the founder of Better Workday. She will challenge you to think differently about how you manage your time, energy, attention and relationships at work to be successful while supporting your well-being.
In each episode Niamh shares new insights and practical ideas to help you create a better workday.
If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a friend or colleague who might also benefit from these tips. If you would like to support the podcast, please subscribe and leave a rating or review.
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Episode 25: The Power of Micro-Breaks
Episode 38: Creating Space in Your Workday