Personal reflection is very underrated.

As a business owner, I’m always battling the feeling that I must be productive and check off more boxes on my to-do list. Check my email one more time. It never really stops. I’m always on call, even when I’m off.

Which may help explain why the idea of sitting down to stop and reflect can feel like wasted time. (I’m too busy for that).

Am I alone on this?

Why is it so hard to just STOP doing things?

When I was a kid my Dad taught me when on the job, always be working, find something to do to help. “Don’t just stand there, find something useful to do.”

Those were wise words to help shape my work ethic.

But my challenge as I see it today is that I rarely ever feel like I’m not on the job.

Where does that compulsion come from?

I believe mine comes from fear.

Fear of not wanting to let people down.

Fear of not doing my best.

Those seem like healthy fears and I believe they are, but I’ve also discovered that when I do force myself to STOP, reflect, ponder, and strategize, something awesome happens.

I become a better parent, husband, friend, mentor, advisor, and more innovative, productive, and dare I say, more fun?

So, I challenge you to give it a try. Force yourself (literally). Twenty minutes. Carve it out. Unplug.

Try it for a week. Or even a few days in a row.

It’s done wonders for me. And I often fall off the wagon and have to force myself back on. Each time, I see staggering benefits.

Try it out.

All you have to do is…

STOP, reflect, ponder, strategize.

Until next time, have an awesome day.

Mike Turner

Co-Founder: Impact Club Boise
Host: Idaho Speakeasy
Collaborator: Value Drive Approach
Founder: Front Street Brokers
Author: Agent Entrepreneurs
Voice: 208-340-8399