Making a smooth transition between back-to-back meetings is never easy. Turning off one set of thoughts and emotions before launching into another discussion is nearly impossible.
Leaders too often carry over their moods, feelings, and thinking from one meeting to the next. The ability to focus exclusively on the next meeting topic while still reeling from the last one makes leaders less effective than they should be.
Even a small separation between meetings can do a world of good to help with this problem. When the day requires back-to-back meetings, creating a 3- to 5-minute separation is a powerful practice. Longer periods are even better, but just about anyone can carve out 3-5 minutes.
It doesn’t matter so much what it is. The key is to engage in an activity for a very brief time that takes your complete attention. Being prepared for this opportunity is equally important.
Consider the idea of music to create this critical separation. Having music at the ready and then immersing yourself in that music for just a few moments gives your brain the chance it needs to switch gears.
Reading a favorite blog or newsletter, answering one email, taking a brisk walk, outlining an upcoming agenda, writing down ideas, and memorizing a special quotation are just a few activities leaders use to create separation.
Transitions between meetings are challenging enough without sprinting from one discussion to another. Team members deserve the best of you and all of your attention in the matters they want to discuss.
Leaving the last meeting behind is aided by a brief separation. Some tiny habits really are atomic. It only takes 3-5 minutes to reset your attention and give you a fresh view on what comes next. It may be the best investment in 3-5 minutes you can possibly make.
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