The Power of Clarity Breaks for Entrepreneurial Leaders

It might seem counterintuitive, but setting aside time for quiet contemplation and deep thinking requires intention and planning. In our fast-paced lives, we often lack the time and space to truly think and reflect. Because we live in a society that encourages constant connectivity, the power of Clarity Breaks for entrepreneurial leaders cannot be overstated.

Discovering My Need for Clarity Breaks

Before I discovered the concept of Clarity Breaks, I found myself thinking deeply only in less-than-ideal situations. Mostly that happened while I tried to fall asleep or during flights without Wi-Fi.

I had a fear of emptiness, and I avoided thinking, white space, and time with myself. However, once I learned to embrace the void, I recognized the importance of creating space for reflection.

My journey with Clarity Breaks improved significantly after attending a QCE® where I heard Gino Wickman speak about his journey. His speech inspired me to commit to taking time for deep reflection and led to a new Clarity Breaks routine.

My Clarity Break Routine

I’ve developed a routine for my Clarity Breaks, and I hope it inspires you as well.

I commit to a Clarity Break once per week for a few hours. I block the time off on my calendar and inform my team that I’ll be unavailable during that time. I start my Clarity Break in the morning, without technology, noise, or news.

I enable downtime mode on my phone, which blocks all apps other than those I specify, and Do Not Disturb. The only exceptions are for calls from my husband, sons, and assistant, and for directions when traveling in an unfamiliar city. For note-taking, I use an offline note-taking device and avoid other forms of technology.

When I’m in a very quiet space with nothing going on, I tend to feel a bit stuck. So I add texture to my Clarity Breaks to keep my ideas flowing. Often I’ll listen to audiobooks, walk, visit museums or libraries, watch traffic, or practice yoga.

I have my note-taking device with me at all times to capture thoughts as they arise. Sometimes I write a thought-provoking question for myself and then my answers. Sometimes I write poetry (that doesn’t rhyme). Other times, I make a list of things to ponder in my next Clarity Break to help guide me along.

After each Clarity Break, I schedule time to evaluate what worked, what didn’t, and how to improve the next one. I also add issues to my Issues Lists and add to-dos to my task management app.

The Results of Clarity Breaks

Since incorporating Clarity Breaks, I’ve experienced more significant breakthrough thoughts during the break and throughout the week as well.

I now eagerly anticipate my Clarity Breaks, and each one is better than the previous. Now I can recognize when I need time to disconnect and reflect. I recognize the need for quiet contemplation time when I start frantically and impulsively checking email, news, and messages in a never-ending cycle.

My husband has also noticed a positive difference in my demeanor, and he supports my Clarity Break practice. I share my breakthroughs with my sons and encourage them to practice as well. Maybe most importantly, after a Clarity Break, I feel calm, confident, and centered. I feel empowered to show up in every aspect of my life as the best version of myself.

For entrepreneurial leaders, Clarity Breaks offer a valuable tool for self-discovery, creativity, and personal growth. By intentionally setting aside time for reflection and implementing a routine that works for you, you can harness their benefits. Taking time to think can transform your leadership journey. Give it a try, and you might amaze yourself with the breakthroughs you experience. Get the Clarity Break tool along with many others for free in the EOS Toolbox™.