Leading Yourself: The Importance of Staring Out of the Window

As we enter week 5 of Distance Learning I can feel my energy wane and my momentum slow. It is now, at this time, that I revisit my routine. Searching for more efficient or effective ways to maintain my productivity. Emails, meetings and to-do lists have spiralled out of control whilst we pivot and learn how to respond to ever-changing government prevention regulations. The increased workload is felt by all, teachers, students and parents. Add the stresses of social isolation, forced online collaboration and dodgy internet and you have a recipe for burnout.

During my mornings, I make it a point to read. If only for 20 minutes. This is essential for my growth as a leader, but also for maintaining my own well-being. This week I am reading Alain De Botton’s ‘The School of Life: An Emotional Education.’ Within the pages of this book, De Botton discusses the importance of art, nature and kindness in contributing to a well-rounded and healthy life. He also discussed the importance and necessity of taking a time-out. During a busy day, we can often feel guilty for staring out of the window or randomly vacuuming the floor. We should not, however, feel guilty at all. It can serve as an essential part of the thinking process by offering a pressure-free moment to let our thoughts run wild and maybe, subside.

“I had a great day. The high point was staring out of the window.”
Alain De Botton

De Botton claims that the point of staring out of the window is not to find out what is going on outside. It is more of an exercise in discovering and making sense of what is already going on in our own minds. Starting out of the window offers us an opportunity to experience a sense of ‘purpose-free calm’. To be able to observe the scene and yet not be part of the scene. No need to respond. A form of strategic procrastination.

“Procrastination may be the enemy of productivity, but it can be a resource for creativity.”
Adam M. Grant

Adam Grant discussed the power of procrastination in his book ‘Originals: How Non-Conformists Move The World.’ The best ideas can often be developed and improved upon if left a while to sit after being formed. During this period of Distance Learning, I am finding that staring out of the window and removing myself from the online environment, if only for a few minutes is of the utmost importance when cultivating ideas, and essential for maintaining my overall sense of well-being.

After furiously replying to emails and back-to-back meetings with parents. I close the laptop and look into the distance. I am lucky that I have a view of Shenzhen Bay outside my window. The water is calming and I can ignore the frantic goings-on in the foreground. Twenty minutes later I often return to my project calmer than before with a newfound creative approach or solution. It is working for me. I encourage you to give it a try. Find a window near you, stare into the distance and take notice of your emotions afterwards. Encourage your students to do the same. I am sure they will feel and perform better for it.