Getting some headspace by jumping off the tube one stop early.

We have to stop thinking of ‘time out’ as a luxury. But the practicality of that often wins over the knowledge that it’s important. In other words, it’s easier said than done. When you lead a team or are answerable to clients, there are so many pressures on your time. 

This idea ain’t rocket science and it certainly doesn’t need an expensive gym membership or app to prompt you. But there’s one thing I often do - and most of you who work in towns and cities can do - and that’s to get off the tube or bus one stop early. By walking the remainder of the journey to the office or your appointment you manage to factor in fresh air and some connection with the ground under your feet. Plus you get a bit of exercise to fire up the neurons before you get stuck in to your workday. Of course, you might have to plan in advance for the best day to do it, as it’ll obviously take you longer to get into the office. So maybe once a week schedule an earlier start, or just accept one day you’ll rock up at 9 instead of 8.30, or whenever you normally start.

I did this on a Monday morning two weeks ago when heading to a meeting in Victoria - I hopped off the tube to stroll through St James’s Park. It was a great way to get some headspace before the meeting - and the motion of walking always has a particular beat to it, one that always drums up ideas.