If you are a leader of a company or organization, my guess is that you are on boards of non-profits, parent teacher organizations, councils for your church or temple, your golf club, your book club, scouting and more.

And, why do you do so much? It is likely that you aren’t sleeping well, not getting enough exercise, taking medications that doctors insist you take, not spending enough time with family and friends, and you hardly have a moment for yourself.

And, most of the time my guess is that you wouldn’t want to change anything much, just dial it down a little, and have some space to think and be creative.

So, let’s start there. Where are you when you have creative ideas? Many people say it is in the shower. Well, you can’t stay in the shower for an hour, especially with the drought, so where else? Others say it is when they are taking a walk, sitting in the garden, or driving home listening to music. Not at their desk, checking their email, or reading LinkedIn. Great ideas happen when they are doing something completely different. Easy to say, well I’ll just take a break and creativity will happen. Well maybe you will take a break, and maybe you’ll be creative.

You may hate what I’m going to tell you, but I’m guessing that the only way you are going to get those breaks is if you schedule them on your calendar. Make an appointment with yourself at least 2 times each week for a minimum of half an hour. Turn off all electronic access. Go to a space where you will not be interrupted. Show that you are in a meeting on your calendar. If you fall asleep, that must have been what you needed. At the end of the time, journal any thoughts or ideas without judging them. Keep that journal going and look at the patterns and ideas that emerge over time.

Does it sound attractive? When can you start?

Amazing Illustration by Koyuki Inagaki