“Mind Like Water”

1. “Mind Like Water” RDML Mike White, PERS-4

2. What’s on your mind right now? • How long is this guy going to talk? • Don’t forget to make that appointment? • The project is due tomorrow? • I need to answer that email? • I can’t forget to call so and so? • I have to pay that bill today? Are these thoughts going through your head?

3. The Theory • Your mind is always working… • But constant concerns can interfere with undisrupted thought • You need an opportunity to apply your brain to complex problems without interference • Every input is like a drop striking the surface of smooth water creating ripples… • How can you keep a smooth surface in your mind to operate at your best?

4. Example • Have you had a conversation while you were thinking of something else you needed to do? • What do you remember of the conversation? • Were you worried you would forget if you didn’t stop thinking about what you had to do?

5. Smoothing the Ripples • If you can, do it now! • If you need more time, mark it! • Note when it is due, and plan it! • Think about the issue • Can I solve it alone? • Do I need collaboration? • Do I need a sequential plan to resolve it?

6. Email Example • You return from the brown bag lunch… • You have 10 new emails • You have 30 minutes until your next meeting What do you do?

7. Email Example • Do you quickly click through them all to see what they are? • Did you just add concerns to your mind that you will carry to the meeting? Will the meeting get your full attention?

8. Email Example • Click one at a time • If you can answer it now, do it… • If you can read it now, do it and file it… • If you don’t have time, leave it but mark it in a way you won’t forget…and clear it from your mind • Sure…but at the end of the day, I have a bunch of untouched emails… • You’re faster than you think you are!

9. Discussion Example • Phone, or in person, follow the same process • If you can answer it now, do it… • Separate your notes • One side for notes and reminders • The other side for the longer term project • Once you have noted the longer term project, clear it from your mind

10. Then, when you have time.. • Check your plan – prioritize what you need to work now and do it • Don’t look at your computer! • Review your emails or project list • Think and work on the project • Scratch if off your list or keep it active

11. Why is it so difficult? • We are a customer service organization • You can’t control the inputs • Priorities set by others

12. Keys to Success • Gain confidence in your ability to mark tasks which you cannot complete now • Practice your filing skills • Learn how rapidly you can accomplish things • You are the expert in your area • You can respond quickly and accurately • Learn to assess what you can do in a period of time

13. Let’s Review the List • How long is this guy going to talk? • Too Long • Don’t forget to make that appointment? • Do it then or write it down • The project is due tomorrow? • Prioritize • I need to answer that email? • Answer it when you see it, or mark it so you will remember • I can’t forget to call so and so? • Make a note in your book • I have to pay that bill today? • File it so you find it today

14. I think you will • Have better recollection and comprehension of meetings and conversations • Make time to apply your thought to complex tasks and problems • Enjoy your time off more

15. Parting Thoughts • Subliminal thought • Leave a problem for a while… solutions are working in your mind • Focus • Turn away from the computer when you are on the phone • If you have your blackberry at a meeting, maybe you don’t need to be at the meeting…

16. Questions?