In this episode of the Better Workday Podcast, Niamh discusses the barriers that prevent people from taking the time to think at work. She speaks about the guilt of doing “nothing”, the habit of urgency, and a culture that prioritises visible output over thoughtful decision-making. Niamh emphasises that thinking time is essential for productivity, creativity, and effective leadership, and offers practical tips for integrating it into daily routines.
Thinking time is essential—but often crowded out by urgency, guilt, and a need to appear busy.
We don’t need to wait for perfect conditions to think, but we do need to create space for it.
Leaders have a unique role in modelling and making space for reflection, both individually and for their teams.
Block 30 minutes this week just to think — no agenda, no pressure.
Leave space between meetings to reset your brain before jumping into the next task.
Use the phrase “Let me think about that” to create a pause and avoid rushed decisions.
If you lead a team, model rough thinking. Share your work-in-progress and give others permission to do the same.
Listen now to hear how to reclaim space for strategic, creative, and reflective thinking — and why it’s one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your team.
Until next time, stay well and have a better workday!
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