In meetings, one discipline I’ve found invaluable is the use of a “parking lot.” This is a designated space on a whiteboard or the Clickshare screen where we place ideas that are tangential or seemingly out of scope. The purpose is to acknowledge these ideas without letting them derail the main discussion. But here’s the question: when do we revisit these parked thoughts? Do they ever lead to something great, or do they just fade away like old whiteboard markers?
This question hit me anew with a small change I’ve made in my daily routine at the office. I now park farther from the building than I used to. The walk to and from the office—even just a few extra yards—serves as a quiet moment to gain focus. It feels a bit odd, especially when there are closer spots available, but it works for me.
Just like those ideas parked on the whiteboard, my new parking habit on in-office days is about giving myself space—both physically and mentally.
So, what’s your take? Have you ever dug up a gem from your idea parking lot? Do you make “space” in your day for quiet moments to refocus, recharge and reorganize?
Let’s explore how these small changes can lead to big insights.
Now you get my bark and my park.