Last week’s post on the perils of being continuously connected seemed to have struck a nerve, as in “ouch.” It appears that many of us are wrestling with these issues. Having written about this, it seemed appropriate that I conduct a self-assessment on the subject. Here’s what I learned: although I don’t have the habit of being always “on” via digital devices, I notice that I have developed the habit of checking my email frequently when I’m working in my office. I feel obliged to get back to people as soon as possible. This is good, to a point. What I also noticed is that my curiosity about what new and interesting things (messages/events/ideas/resources/opportunities) may have come my way is very captivating. Consequently, I have resolved to do my critical thinking, strategic thinking and creative work before I let myself explore the bright shiny objects that show up in my inbox.

Food for Thought ~

Some might say “Why make such an issue of this?” Because, I think the “use it or lose it” axiom applies. If we default to primarily using the type of thinking required for reacting to stimuli, we will diminish our individual and collective powers of concentration and focus, our unique and creative capacities to imagine new horizons and dream big dreams, our ability to dedicate our attention and complete a task, our capacity for generating original work. I am reminded that Albert Einstein said, “Imagination is more important than knowledge.” That pretty well sums it up.

Question for the day ~

How might you find ways to maintain (or increase) your personal creative, generative capacities? How does Einstein’s insight apply to you or your organization?

For those of you who didn’t get a chance to read the very popular HBR article that I referenced last week, The Magic of Doing One thing at a Time, here’s the link.

Please preserve your creative and generative powers! The world needs them.

Mary