Time To Think

When you open a bottle of wine you are instructed to give it time to breathe. This maximizes the flavor and thus your enjoyment. When you pull a steak off the grill, you are supposed to let it rest. This time gives a boost to the overall texture and flavor. The juices need time to redistribute; to flow back into the steak. Otherwise, it will just flow away, leaving you with a brown, overcooked piece of meat. In both examples, you are not maximizing the potential. The same is true with your thoughts, responses, and opinions. They need time and space to form to their highest level of potency and capability.

One of the most thoughtful answers you can give is “let me think about it”. Sometimes seen as a deflection or delay tactic, its true intention is to offer you space to formulate an appropriate response. This is time to optimize your reasoning. It is time to give careful consideration; to use your full intelligence and rationalization skills.

There is great value in pondering, contemplation, and reflection. There is value in decision making too. As a personal guide to shaping your thoughts and responses try to implement the following.

T- is this true?

H- is this helpful?

I- is this inspiring?

N- is this necessary?

K- is this kind?

While this acronym may not apply in all cases it will help you formulate and maximize your process.

Be careful not to overdo it. Much like a bottle of wine left out too long and a steak left on the grill for a few extra minutes, there is a potential negative…Analysis Paralysis. This happens when an individual or group overanalyzes or overthinks a situation which can cause forward motion or decision-making to become "paralyzed", meaning that no solution or course of action is decided upon.

Find the balance. Give yourself and others time to think. Be thoughtful. It’s one of the best qualities in a person.

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