As a leader, spending time thinking is one of the most important things you can do. You are responsible for where the organization is going, how the team is working together to get their goals accomplished and developing them to their full potential. That doesn’t even count all of the other administrative things that must get done and the constant alignment up and down the organization that is required.
If you look at that list it is easy to get overwhelmed and feel like you don’t have any time to think. I would tell you that no one else is thinking about your team and the future of your organization, so if you don’t do it, no one else will. As the leader, you are being paid to think. Don’t neglect it and assume that everything will just work out. It requires proactive intentional focus.
Management is looking for a leader who is strategic. You need to demonstrate that you have considered all the alternatives as you came up with recommendations and the strategies to deliver them. They are looking for you to be an influencer and a decision maker, not an order taker. You must understand the strategy of your organization and how your team fits into it. Being able to communicate that and inspire your team to start thinking strategically is a great way to develop them. Take a look at this article by Willie Pietersen that talks about the importance of everyone being responsible for strategy. https://www.ivyexec.com/executive-insights/2016/why-strategy-everyones-job/
Many of the clients that I have are just starting to focus on thinking vs doing and being more strategic. I challenge them to use delegation, be more strategic in their thinking and execute their plans. This is a new skill set for people who have only been individual contributors and are now leading a team. This is a mindset shift from being responsible for yourself to being responsible for a team. It is a big transition and you may need help to do it successfully. If I can help you develop these skills, please set up time for a complimentary session: http://susanmbarber.com/schedule-an-appointment/