TCFBO #032: The Parking Zone

Read Time: 2.5 minutes

Ever been working on a task and suddenly, out of nowhere, a totally unrelated idea pops into your head?

Or you remember something else you’ve got to get done?

Or someone interrupts you and asks for something?

All important things, we’re sure.

But it’s not what you should be focusing on at that moment.

Which is where “The Parking Zone” comes in handy.

When we work with clients, especially groups, there are often ideas, comments or questions that come up.

They may be relevant to what we’re working on.

They may be irrelevant.

Or they may be something that will be covered later.

Whatever it is, if it’s not directly related to the task in hand we capture it on a flip chart we refer to as “The Parking Zone”.

Then later in the session we review what’s been captured.

Well, you can apply the same principle in your daily life (although you may want to use something easier to carry around than a flip chart!)

So imagine the scenario.

You're working away, and suddenly you think:

"Did I email the supplier about that order?"

or

"I’ve just had a great idea for our next marketing campaign!"

Instead of dropping everything and just diving into a new task, you simply capture the idea in your Parking Zone.

You could use a physical notepad, a digital note on your phone or whatever's easiest for you.

Paul uses a note on his phone when he’s not at the computer, and a mind mapping tool when he is.

Philly prefers to use a pen and notebook she carries around.

The key thing is to keep it simple so you can return to the task in hand as fast as possible.

It's not about making detailed notes.

It’s not about opening up a complex project management tool and figuring out where the thought should be captured.

It’s not about deciding the merits of the thought.

It’s simply about quickly capturing a word or short sentence in order to jog your memory later.

Then, when you're done with your current task, or maybe at the end of the day, you go through and review what’s in your Parking Zone.

This is when you can decide where each new thought fits in with your overall vision and strategy.

Does it need immediate action?

Can it be scheduled for later?

Is it an idea you want to file away for future reference?

Maybe it’s not as crucial as it seemed when you captured it and can just be deleted?

We really love this method because it helps you stay focused and in the zone.

You don't lose your flow on the task in hand, or forget about the current task completely as you disappear down a new rabbit hole.

And yet you’re still able to capture those random bursts of inspiration and important reminders.

Plus, when you review your Parking Zone, it's like having a mini brainstorming session.

You’ll be surprised how many good ideas or important tasks you've captured.

So, give it a try.

And next time your mind tries to derail your focus, just park that thought, review it later, and stay on track.

Let us know how you get on and we’ll see you next week.

Paul & Philly

P.S. Have you tried using a Parking Zone, or do you have another method to manage these random thoughts? We’d love to hear what works for you.

Whenever you’re ready, there are two ways we can help you:

1. Discover how to create a life and business you truly love with your copy of “Backwards Planning - A Simple Method to Move You and Your Business Forward” from Amazon.

2. To work with us through the entire “Backwards Planning” process outlined in the book, you can apply to join The Clear Focus Business Academy.

The first step is to book a facilitated Life Vision Session which we conduct one to one over Zoom. This session will not only give you clarity on what you want from your life but will give you the opportunity to experience how we work and ensure we're a good fit for each other before deciding whether The Clear Focus Business Academy is right for you. It comes with a 100% money back guarantee, so if you're not entirely satisfied, simply let us know at the end of the session and we'll issue a full refund.