Once upon a time I lived with fewer voices in my head. Life was simple. My time was less committed. I was not in a relationship with a smartphone that now accompanies me everywhere acting as my best friend, GPS, alarm clock, to-do list, and so much more. Almost daily my smartphone tries to outsmart me reminding me of where I need to be. It’s an extremely valuable device that I once lived without but can’t imagine ever wanting to live without it again.
As an executive assistant in today’s 21st century workplace, I spend a considerable amount of time preparing, thinking, overthinking, and making sure I am ready for whatever comes up throughout the day. Rarely do days go as planned, and that’s okay! Why? It is because administrative professionals who excel in their careers take the time to prepare. Career-minded administrative professionals know it’s better to have information on hand and not need it than to need timely information and not have it available or know how to access it quickly. It’s better to jump from Plan A to Plan B than to only have thought through Plan A, the perfect scenario.
As I read through business publications and magazines, I start to overthink and the voices in my head start asking questions:
- Is this valuable information I should share with someone?
- Can this information be used in one of the classes I’m teaching?
- Is there a concept or idea that can be integrated into my blog?
- Is this information I should hold onto?
When provided with new information, I think about it from every angle and possibility. I strategically think who else besides me needs this information. In meetings and conversations, I ask questions to avoid assumptions and seek clarification. Out of curiosity I spend time researching and analyzing information looking for answers to make my own discoveries and draw upon my own conclusions.
Does my mind shut off? Rarely! How do you shut down your mind to take a mental break? Those shutting off moments for me include being on a cruise where technology is not always available, the gym when I’m huffing and puffing listening to my iPod, the movie theater, and being surrounded by family/friends.
As I think about my overthinking brain, I love it! I’m grateful for an active mind that is engaged and enjoys processing information and has served me well in my career choice as an executive assistant.