“Mind Like Water” RDML Mike White, PERS-4

What’s on your mind right now? How long is this guy going to talk? Don’t forget to make that appointment? The project is due tomorrow? I need to answer that ? I can’t forget to call so and so? I have to pay that bill today? Are these thoughts going through your head?

The Theory Your mind is always working… – But constant concerns can interfere with undisrupted thought – You need an opportunity to apply your brain to complex problems without interference Every input is like a drop striking the surface of smooth water creating ripples… How can you keep a smooth surface in your mind to operate at your best?

Example Have you had a conversation while you were thinking of something else you needed to do? What do you remember of the conversation? Were you worried you would forget if you didn’t stop thinking about what you had to do?

Smoothing the Ripples If you can, do it now! If you need more time, mark it! Note when it is due, and plan it! Think about the issue – Can I solve it alone? – Do I need collaboration? – Do I need a sequential plan to resolve it?

Example You return from the brown bag lunch… You have 10 new s You have 30 minutes until your next meeting What do you do?

Example Do you quickly click through them all to see what they are? Did you just add concerns to your mind that you will carry to the meeting? Will the meeting get your full attention?

Example Click one at a time – If you can answer it now, do it… – If you can read it now, do it and file it… – If you don’t have time, leave it but mark it in a way you won’t forget…and clear it from your mind Sure…but at the end of the day, I have a bunch of untouched s… – You’re faster than you think you are!

Discussion Example Phone, or in person, follow the same process – If you can answer it now, do it… – Separate your notes One side for notes and reminders The other side for the longer term project Once you have noted the longer term project, clear it from your mind

Then, when you have time.. Check your plan – prioritize what you need to work now and do it – Don’t look at your computer! Review your s or project list – Think and work on the project Scratch if off your list or keep it active

Why is it so difficult? We are a customer service organization – You can’t control the inputs – Priorities set by others

Keys to Success Gain confidence in your ability to mark tasks which you cannot complete now Practice your filing skills Learn how rapidly you can accomplish things – You are the expert in your area – You can respond quickly and accurately Learn to assess what you can do in a period of time

Let’s Review the List How long is this guy going to talk? – Too Long Don’t forget to make that appointment? – Do it then or write it down The project is due tomorrow? – Prioritize I need to answer that ? – Answer it when you see it, or mark it so you will remember I can’t forget to call so and so? – Make a note in your book I have to pay that bill today? – File it so you find it today

I think you will Have better recollection and comprehension of meetings and conversations Make time to apply your thought to complex tasks and problems Enjoy your time off more

Parting Thoughts Subliminal thought – Leave a problem for a while… solutions are working in your mind Focus – Turn away from the computer when you are on the phone – If you have your blackberry at a meeting, maybe you don’t need to be at the meeting…

Questions?