Sometimes we all need to stop, regroup and recharge our professional batteries. I was at a Cubs game on July 15, 2011. Carlos Marmol came into the game with a two-run lead in the 9th inning. He was only able to get one out before he was pulled and replaced by another reliever to finish out the game. Marmol was very inconsistent and unable to pitch strikes. The team manager, Mike Quade, asked Carlos Marmol to take the weekend off to regroup and regain his exceptional ability to get outs at the end of the game.
There are times when we all need to regroup and regain our passion for our work. I experienced this first hand. The first part of my “down time” I went to see the Cubs victory I briefly described above. The rest of my time was been spent by the water swimming, fishing, having a few adult beverages and Listening to the Quiet.
The Quiet. It is something many of us have never experienced or have not realized the experience. If you know this expience, you know what I will attempt to describe.
Sitting outside, many times you hear birds chirping, kids playing and lawn mowers roaring. Imagine if all of those sounds went away – or at least two of the three. All that remains is the Quiet, true quiet.
If you have experienced Quiet, you know what is meant by the saying “silence is deafening”. Phones are not ringing and business associates are not asking questions. Quiet. What happens next is up to you and is the most important. Your mind begins to wander and/or wonder. This is always important regardless of the profession you are in. You begin thinking about life’s challenges and how to resolve those challenges. It is also a great time to generate ideas for the next blog you write.
In addition to providing high-quality think-time, the Quiet allows you to do the opposite – think about nothing. Thinking about nothing provides a relief of stress and improves your overall emotional well being. It other words’ it recharges your emotional batteries.
I have found it very difficult, but vitally important to take a break from the always on, always connected life. Make the time to do nothing and listen to the quiet. How long has it been since you have Listened to the Quiet?
Keep your eyes open. Inspiration can come from anywhere.
Inspiration for this writing came from my dad. He always reminds me to take some time off from the fast-paced world of business and enjoy doing nothing.
Observe Inspire Lead 