In our fast-paced world, filled with endless to-do lists and the pressure to keep moving forward, it’s easy to forget the importance of simply taking a moment to think. This pause can be one of the most powerful tools for personal and professional growth. Taking time to reflect on how your business and personal life are progressing allows you to identify what’s working, what needs to change, and how you can move forward more effectively and happily.

There is always something in your life that could benefit from reflection and planning, or that requires an “executive” decision from you. You can make better assessments and decisions if you have dedicated time and space to think about these things, just like you would prioritize any other task.

First, identify where and when you think best. This could be first thing in the morning before others wake up or on your commute. Maybe you think clearest while you’re working out, at a coffee shop, or while taking a walk at the end of your day. It could even be mowing your lawn or shoveling snow. Whatever it is, make sure it is a quiet, comfortable space where you won’t be interrupted. If you aren’t alone in this space, find some other way to prevent disruptions, like headphones or facing away from the entrance. You want a calm environment that quite literally fades into the background.

Just like any other important task, deliberately schedule this time. Make sure you won’t be bothered by any other pressing matters so there is mental and physical separation from the busyness of life. The longer the period of time, the better. Make sure you turn off notifications and other distractions on your devices.

After you’ve had a great thinking session, don’t forget it! The last step is to document your thoughts in some way. You may want to keep a notebook for your ideas, keep notes on your phone or computer, or dictate your ideas to a recorder. It can also help to decide where you should pick back up next time to reorient yourself quickly.

Taking time to reflect is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. In both your personal and professional life, regular reflection can lead to greater clarity, better decision-making, and enhanced well-being. By making reflection a consistent practice, you can ensure that you’re not just moving forward, but moving forward in the right direction. So, take a moment, breathe, and think. Your future self will thank you.