If you are like most people, you hit the ground running. You dive right into email and returning voicemails and then your day seems to be overtaken by information overload. You spend all day in reactionary mode – responding to what’s thrown at you. That does not leave time for inspiration, planning, goal setting or creativity. The most prolific creators and productive influencers have a practice of blocking out time each day for “thinking.” Such a simple idea, but so often overlooked. We need to allow time to; envision goals, create new ideas, do research, digest trends, news and information and other types of free flowing contemplation.

Although this is geared towards professionals, it can apply to anyone. Even if you are a SAHM – do you take time to think about what you want, your dreams and what happens “after?” Proactively blocking out time for creating and absorbing – rather than just responding – is a key tactic of productive professionals.