Up and down the east coast of the United States today is a massive snowstorm. The local and national television networks live for this kind of day with extensive coverage and commentary. Social media is also energized with people putting up photos and sharing personal accounts of their challenges in navigating through this difficult weather situation. After feeling trapped and unable to venture outside, it became evident that this snowy day was not a disaster, but rather a gift. A day like today forces us to step back, gain control and catch-up.
Imagine if we were given a periodic gift of a Checkout Day in our work worlds. What would you do? What could you focus on?
Step one: Acknowledge the gift
Before we can even decide on what to focus on or pursue, we need to tell ourselves that this type of day is special and a great opportunity to tackle a particular project. Maybe we can’t take an entire day, but blocking out a half-day or full day at work, can be rejuvenating as it allows us to breathe.
[Tweet “A Checkout Day is a gift for leaders to rejuvenate.”]
Step two: Don’t waste your time-Make a plan
When the snow first hit, a tinge of panic did set in initially. We can become paralyzed with empty time if we don’t take action quickly.
- Decide how to spend the Checkout Day carefully
- Use timeframes to guide your progress
- Try to avoid putting too much on your plate-quality counts more than quantity
- Write out your plan and keep it in front of you to review
Step three: Block out distractions
Background noise can get the best of us- emails, texts, phone calls and people just stopping by to chat. On this snowy day constantly listening to the television or following the social media streams can overpower us. Putting the distractions aside is critical or we will accomplish nothing.
Step four: Connect with a trusted friend or advisor
A Checkout Day is a perfect time to reach out to our support network. Set up a phone call or a Google Hangout with that person you have wanted to ask questions or brainstorm with. Is there a challenge that you have been struggling with that someone at work or in a different organization can help you review? Is there an individual from a past job that has a new position you may be curious about learning more?
[Tweet “Connecting with our support network is ideal on a Checkout Day.”]
Step five: Dream
So this is the best step of all. When we are given the gift of a Checkout Day, we are being handed over a magical key to close the door on routine and open the door on the unconventional. It is a day to dream about “what could be” and “where we could go”.
- Make a list of 5 of the projects you have been meaning to tackle
- Let your mind expand when thinking about your choices
- Decide which venture to take on during the Checkout Day
- Be aware of why this choice became the priority as it may give you insight into an important direction of your career or life
- Don’t be afraid to change your decision if it isn’t working
[Tweet “Leaders take the time to dream during a Checkout Day.”]
How would you approach a Checkout Day?
Oh…I like that concept Terri! A checkout day where we could put aside what we have to do so we can do what we want to do…the biggest takeaway I got was this: Don’t waste the day! Be intentional about what you plan to do and want to accomplish. And, as you mention, it can be a mini-retreat and last a few hours…anything to get your mind into a playful and creative mood!
A Checkout Day is not to be wasted as it can ultimately provide the best direction for each of us. If we take the time that we disconnect from our routines and map out a specific focus, we will be able to work on what is deeply meaningful. It does take planning and discipline, but can really be fun and insightful.
Thanks LaRae for adding your twist and takeaways!
I’ve read and seen tons of friends on the East Coast passing their snow storm day with the TV on and FB open. While downtime is important to re-energize, I love the concept that you’re proposing and it’s one that so few people I know do. A checkout day to check in with your goals, progress, ideas and vision. Really interesting and a fantastic way to turn downtime into meaningful action.
Alli
Taking deliberate steps to checkout and check into your most important choices can be so rewarding. The snow storm seemed like the perfect opportunity to clear my desk of routine and work on meaningful projects. And then I thought how helpful to follow this same course of action in our jobs and careers. The only stipulation for a successful Checkout Day was to make sure it was planned and focused.
Thanks Alli!
I love this Terri! It reminded me of growing up in ND where check out days meant no school! (Although those days were filled with great joy – they were not so productive!)
I love the idea of being cozy inside on a quiet day, thinking, dreaming and planning and really appreciate the focus and peace and anticipation that come after a few hours spent doing those activities.
A friend of mine is very focused on making this happen. Four times a year he goes off by himself to pray, think, plan and refocus.
I love your childhood memory Chery! Snow days can be fun especially when we can take the time and focus our thinking on a plan.
Thanks Chery!
Terrific to take advantage of a glad surprise, an unexpected gift. Those who know the value of this exercise do not wait for it to happen. Rather they make it happen whether it’s four times a year or even more. I also recommend a check-out, check-up week at least once a year, not the busy, active vacation but a real retreat, unplugged from electronics and plugged into the natural world and one’s self. Thinking about offering one next Fall in the high desert of northern New Mexico. Interested?
Love your idea Gary of a Check-Up week! Having a retreat and not dealing with the everyday routine can be so helpful and energizing.
Thanks for stopping by and sharing your great insights!