Who challenges your thinking?
Recently, I participated in a rustic cabin retreat with two other speakers. We were there to plan, support and challenge each other. Though the work we do is different, we each had critical business strategy issues to address and decisions to make. We questioned each other’s assumptions, pushed for bolder thinking and added to ideas. In just 48 hours, we were able to focus our work for the upcoming year. (We had some memorable laughter and tears as well, making the time spent even more worthwhile.)
Less than two weeks after the cabin retreat, I checked in to our local retreat center for a “Day of Quiet.” For $20, participants get run of the facility, lunch and most importantly…quiet. It was time for me to think through the decisions I made at the cabin and to prioritize and operationalize them. It was me, a legal pad and a pen. No electronics. It takes a while for the itch to check my phone for texts and emails to go away on days like this, but after the first 30 minutes, I notice I’m calmer. My thinking is more focused. My soul settles. It’s when I do my best work.
When do you do your best work? Do you know? Most of us are on a treadmill, running fast just to keep up. It’s taken me a long time to realize that stepping off the treadmill for short periods can actually help me run a better race when I get back on. Years ago I heard a leadership speaker say he “retreats annually, refreshes quarterly, and rests monthly.” It’s great advice. I embrace it imperfectly but when I do, my work is better. And so am I.
Where do you find solitude and quiet in the midst of your busy days? If you don’t naturally have it, this is an invitation to make it. Close your door. Take your work offsite if you’re able. Above all, put the electronics away. You’ll be calmer. Your thinking will be more focused. Your soul will settle. And you’ll do your best work on behalf of your association. And that’s exactly what associations need today.