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Leading from the Core

The Value of “Solo” Time

Posted on April 11th, 2013 by Randall Taussig

In a recent blog, I encouraged entrepreneurs to find unique ways to network.  My own discovery was that I could turn my passion for flying into a mile-high, one-on-one networking event that clients and prospects would always remember.  I have “networked” on board “Taussig-Air” several times since writing that blog – with great results.

Last week I flew by myself for the first time in a while … and loved it!  There’s something about “flying solo” that always helps recharge my battery.

This got me thinking that I really don’t schedule enough “solo” time, whether in the cockpit or just reading a good book or even visiting a museum in downtown D.C.

I find that some time away from the day-to-day pressures of work (and yes, even my beloved family) can pay big dividends by keeping me centered and on track.  It doesn’t take much time for me to recharge, but the impact is usually significant.

For example, prior to my flight earlier this week, I was wrestling with uncertainty about launching a speaking strategy for my business.  I wasn’t consciously thinking about this issue while flying (when piloting a plane, it’s usually a good idea to focus on what you’re doing), but after the flight, I found that I was much clearer about the path I wanted to take.

There was a subtle transition that occurred once my guard was down and my mind became relaxed that allowed me to see things in a new light.

I think most people have had similar experiences, but rarely do we plan alone time.

Perhaps we should all take out our calendars, schedule a few solo events over the next couple of weeks, and honor those appointments with ourselves as if they were meetings with our most important clients.

I just blocked out three “clarity breaks” for this quarter.  These are critical meetings I know I can’t miss.  I hope you can give yourself some “breaks” as well.  I’m pretty sure that your body, mind and soul will reward you for your efforts.

2 Responses to “The Value of “Solo” Time”

  1. Steve Dorfman 17 April 2013 at 6:43 pm #

    How great, Randy. You raise such an important point. I know plenty of people who do this, and seem to have a more creative, fulfilling, and balanced life as a result. Most of us aren’t pilots but — as you mentioned– this “solo time” can take on many forms. Would enjoy learning more about your thoughts on your speaking strategy, by the way…

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