There’s so much noise, so much jitter, so much information swirling around us right now that it’s almost impossible not to feel distracted. I want to share the single biggest secret I wish I’d known as a younger, high-energy entrepreneur: slow it down.|
Most of the significant mistakes I made were because I ignored that quiet, still, internal knowing that something was off. In other words, I forced it. There’s now a wealth of scientific research proving that our intuition goes beyond what we see, hear, or think.
An interesting book, The Gift of Fear by Gavin de Becker, highlights this very concept. It discusses violent crimes, particularly against women, and how nearly every victim had a sense that something was wrong before the tragedy occurred. This is an example of dire consequence, but it’s equally true for matters of great significance all the way down to personal, internal decisions. I’ve found this same truth in my businesses: when I ignored that inner nudge, it led to setbacks.
One thing I’ve learned is that the very first quick impression is often the right one. It’s when I get into that analytic back-and-forth tug-of-war with myself that I get in trouble. Instead of following my initial prompting, I’d overthink, overcomplicate—and often regret it.
So, what’s your cadence for clarity? For me, it’s when I wake up in the morning or in the shower, often leading to some interesting moments as I dash across the room, dripping wet, to jot down insights. If I act on those two or three waking ideas—the shower epiphanies or insights that come on my morning walk—I’m almost always on the right path.
But when I let myself get sucked into the noisy, cluttered, “must-do” mindset, trying to force things, I inevitably end up in a hole. And when you’re in a hole, the first rule is simple: Stop digging.
For me, this personal power hour—my sacred, private time—has become invaluable. If I’d known this secret earlier, I believe my success rate would’ve doubled. So, I encourage you to find your solace. Find where your moments of clarity and inspiration come from.
Everyone’s different. I can’t tell you exactly what will work for you, but I can tell you that finding this source and having the courage to follow that inner voice is transformative.
Find your source of clarity, and have the courage to listen.
All My Best,
Rich
