Time to Think: The Next Bend Process

TL;DR

Project managers should prioritize setting aside regular time to think about their projects and gain important insights for better decision-making.

Transcript

the biggest question i get from experienced project managers who are not yet at the peak of their career is a simple one how can i get more time to think it's really easy for a project manager to get completely tied up in the day-to-day goings-on of our projects and so the time to think to really think carefully about what's going on in our project... Read More

Key Insights

• 🤔 Time to think is a valuable commodity rather than a luxury for project managers.
• 👻 Allocating regular time for reflection allows project managers to anticipate future challenges and make informed decisions.
• 🤭 Stepping away from the busyness of projects and finding a quiet environment facilitates clearer thinking and creativity.
• 🤯 Making random notes, drawing diagrams, and creating mind maps can aid in articulating ideas and capturing important insights.
• 🤔 Not every thinking session will yield groundbreaking insights, but the value lies in the weeks when significant discoveries occur.
• 🤪 Reflective thinking can help project managers spot patterns, trends, and potential risks that might have gone unnoticed.
• 🤔 Committing to regular thinking time showcases a proactive approach to project management and demonstrates the importance of thoughtful decision-making.
• 📽️ Project managers should prioritize time to think even when not actively working on a project to foster continuous improvement in their skills.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why is finding time to think important for project managers?

Finding time to think is crucial for project managers because it allows them to step back, gain perspective, and make informed decisions. Without reflection, project managers risk missing important insights and trends that could impact their projects' success.

Q: How can project managers create a conducive environment for thinking?

Project managers can find a quiet meeting room, a reception area, or even a cafe where they won't be disturbed. It's important to create a relaxed atmosphere and bring only a notebook and pen to facilitate thinking and reflection.

Q: What should project managers focus on during their designated thinking time?

Project managers should think about what has been happening on their projects, consider their current knowledge, and let their minds wander. This process helps bring information from the unconscious mind to the conscious, leading to valuable insights and a clearer understanding of the project's state.

Q: How often should project managers allocate time for thinking?

Project managers should aim for at least half an hour every week to dedicate to thinking, reflecting, and gaining insights. While not every session will result in valuable discoveries, the regular practice increases the chances of identifying crucial information for the project's success.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Project managers often struggle to find time to think about their projects amidst daily project tasks.

• Setting aside at least half an hour each week in a quiet location allows project managers to reflect and gain clarity.

• By giving their minds the opportunity to wander, project managers can uncover valuable insights and identify important trends.