Running on Empty
A basic tenet in systems theory states that the system with the most diversity has the least amount of energy. Water pushed through a thin hose will have more force than water sent through multiple holes of a sprinkler.
Look at your mind as a system (a highly complex one), and you’ll see how this tenet holds: The more scattered your attention, the less energy you have for creative output.
This means that if you operate in a space of constant distraction and information overload, your creative reservoir is small. Our modern world is built around information overload. In fact, from my observation of numerous corporations, it appears as though most executives are running on empty—and many people don’t even realize it.
The prevailing belief system in corporate America is if you’re not in a meeting, responding to email, writing a document or developing a pitch, you’re not working. If you’re not staring at a monitor, a Blackberry or a stack of papers, you’re not doing your job.
This belief system guarantees an endless cycle of distraction, energy depletion and a dearth of creative inspiration.
Changing corporate culture is difficult and often painfully slow, but worth the effort. For now, start noticing when you’re running on fumes. Allow yourself moments of rest. Power down your cell phone and go for a short walk or just gaze aimlessly at the top of a tree.
You’ll be amazed at the experiential benefits 15 minutes of stillness has on your mental systems. Recharge and watch your creative energy tank overflow with ideas.
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Today’s and yesterday’s blogs were especially meaningful to me. The idea mapping yesterday was just what I needed. I read it on the plane just befor the doors closed and thought about the concept for the next hour. I read a great book on how to do this called; “Idea Mapping; How to Access your Hidden Brain Power” and have used the idea to some degree in taking notes at lectures. Thank you Scott for your wisdom and daily blog.