As entrepreneurs, our ability to think critically, creatively and efficiently is our superpower. It allows us to create products, services and solutions for our clients.
However, entrepreneurs always have packed schedules.
How can you harness your thinking ability to create more success for yourself?
At Redbox Studio, we have something we call structured timed thinking. By dedicating focused time to brainstorming or problem-solving, you can unlock a wealth of ideas and solutions that can propel your businesses forward. In this article, we will share why every entrepreneur needs to build structured timed thinking into their day and show you how to integrate this powerful habit into your daily routine.
Why Structured Timed Thinking for Entrepreneurs Is Critical
Productive in 15:
- Structured timed thinking provides a framework for focused and efficient idea generation, maximizing productivity in a short timeframe. You don’t need to spend an entire afternoon or an entire day. You just need 15 minutes in your day!
Creative Exploration:
- The unfiltered nature of this thinking approach forces you to explore creative and unconventional solutions to business challenges.
Consistent Problem-Solving:
- By incorporating structured timed thinking into your daily routine, you create a consistent habit of tackling business problems head-on, preventing issues from lingering unresolved. You have set aside actual “thinking time”.
Idea Generation:
- The dedicated time for brainstorming facilitates a continuous flow of new ideas, fostering innovation and keeping your business at the forefront of your industry. This is what we use to keep Redbox Studio relevant year after year (despite being 25 years in business!). It’s our business hack!
Time Constraints:
- Setting specific time limits helps you become more effective with your time management, preventing the tendency to dwell excessively on one problem or idea.
We recommend that you start every week first (say every Monday morning for 15 minutes) and slowly work your way into a daily practice.
Developing Your Super Power: Structured Timed Thinking
Structured timed thinking involves setting aside a specific period, such as 15 minutes, to concentrate on a particular area of your business that requires attention. Whether you’re brainstorming new ideas or seeking solutions to existing problems, this focused time allows your mind to delve deep into the matter without distractions.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how you can make the most of structured timed thinking:
Set the Timer:
Start by choosing a specific area of your business that needs attention or a problem that requires a solution. Set a timer for 15 minutes to create a sense of urgency and focus.
Go Into a Quiet Space:
Prioritize finding a quiet space where you will not be disturbed. Early mornings are often the best time for this focused activity. If necessary, close the door to eliminate potential interruptions. Doing this outdoors in nature such as by the beach or in a garden enhances your creative thinking power.
Brainstorm Freely:
During the allocated time, permit yourself to brainstorm freely. Write down as many ideas as possible or jot down questions that arise. Resist the urge to edit or second-guess your thoughts. The goal is to generate a diverse range of ideas without inhibitions.
Embrace Unfiltered Thinking:
Structured timed thinking is about embracing unfiltered thinking. Allow your mind to wander and explore unconventional ideas. This process often leads to unique solutions and perspectives that may not emerge through traditional problem-solving methods.
Stop Promptly:
When the timer rings, stop all writing immediately. This time constraint forces you to focus and prevents overthinking. If you haven’t completed the task, carry it over to the next day. Resist the urge to continue.
Review and Select:
The next day, review what you’ve written. Identify promising ideas or potential solutions that stand out. If needed, select one and dedicate another 15-minute session to further develop and refine the concept.
Seek Unbiased Feedback:
Once you have some ideas or solutions generated from your brainstorm, talk them over with a friend or business partner who can provide unbiased feedback. External perspectives can offer valuable insights and help you refine your ideas. This is an optional step but can be helpful if you get too many conflicting ideas!
While we didn’t invent structured timed thinking, we have used this as part of our creative thinking process in Redbox Studio. Structured timed thinking is a valuable habit that can significantly contribute to your success. (And if you’re a parent, teach this to your children. This habit builds focused thinking into a child’s life.)
By dedicating focused time to brainstorming and problem-solving in a quiet and undisturbed space, you can unlock your creative potential no matter how uncreative you think you are. Make structured timed thinking a weekly or daily practice and watch as your business grows through enhanced productivity and strategic thinking.
If you’ve found this article helpful, please share this with a friend or business associate. Sign up for future updates for articles such as these. While our business is mostly in web development and business strategy, we find that productivity tips and strategies are helpful to entrepreneurs too – being productive in smart ways helps us get more of the right things done!