A few years ago during my summer vacation, I took a few hours to sit by the lake and strategize goals for both my business and personal life. I was amazed at how the view of the lake and the sounds of the waves inspired me to think differently. I just love what sitting by the lake does for me. This is where I do my most creative thinking … a tranquil setting on the water. I’m always amazed that whenever I take time for me and my family near the water, how miraculously new ideas bubble to the surface. Stress floats away and the ripple of the water, as it quiets my mind and replenishes my soul. When I’m not busy worrying and thinking, clear thoughts and creative strategies finally have room to get through. It may seem counterintuitive that when you turn it off or slow it down, your creativity cranks up—but it’s very, very true. Sometimes doing nothing is far more productive than doing, doing, doing. Perhaps, it has something to do with my horoscope sign—as I’m Aquarius, the sign of Water-Bearer.
Well, It was this summer vacation a few years ago, when I added a new goal to my bucket list—the goal of having a water property!
Well, these goals have bubbled to the surface and became reality. My husband and I purchased a cottage on Lake Erie earlier this year. (OK—let me be honest—it’s really a shack of less than 600 square feet, but it does have lake view!) We spent the first week of July enjoying coffee each morning overlooking the lake and discussing more creative ideas and goals of turning the shack into our Lake House. Well, I’ll admit, as much as I tried to turn work off—those waves did inspire me with more business and sales coaching ideas, too! I’m consistently amazed at the new and innovative ideas that come to mind when we take the time to turn off the office, relax and rejuvenate.
So what will you do on your summer vacation? How can you turn it off to turn on your creativity? If you’re really looking to turn it off—I challenge you to turn off your CrackBerry (OK, I’ll admit, it was hard to completely turn if off—but I did so every day at noon to enjoy the rest of the day with my family). Enjoy your summer to rejuvenate and replenish for a strong fall selling season. Look into the lake reflection for your next brilliant business idea or new goals to motivate you to sell more!
