"How can you think out of the box when you spend your day in a box?" Why is it important to get out of the office? People are the core of my business - and likely yours, too. Strengthen relationships. Meet new people. Find opportunities. Let serendipity and collisions happen.

Let’s talk about why it’s important to get out of the office.

First, a story. I traveled to Ithaca this week for meetings with a young growing business. It’s a four-hour drive. Each way. Many of you likely see that as time not well spent. It’s not efficient, but I love my windshield time. While your eyes are on the road and your hands on the wheel, your ears are ready to work for you.

Get some auditory fulfillment.

I spent at least an hour on the phone. High-quality hands-free calling is a standard for most cars today. Just don’t schedule any calls that require you take notes.
I spent nearly two hours listening to podcasts. Man, don’t you love podcasts? I learn so much. This trip I listened to Adam Grant, Duct Tape Marketing, How I Built That, and Natural Born Coaches. How many do you subscribe to?
I spent an hour listening to some music. I love it when the windows are open, the music is loud, and the wind is blowing through my hair? Recharge!

I drive a hybrid electric, so it’s pretty cost effective and easy on the environment, too.

Ithaca is not only home to a potential client, but there’s Cornell University and Ithaca College, the Finger Lakes and amazing gorges and waterfalls. I love to get out of the office. I have three offices and - at most - spend a day a week total in all of them.

How can you think out of the box when you stay in a box all day?

Don't get me wrong - I love the phone and Zoom and use them a lot every day. It’s efficient. I *would* make more short-term cash if I *never* left the office and only worked virtual. But that’s ineffective because it misses the bigger opportunity.

People are the core of my business - and likely yours, too. You’re much more effective when you're out of the office - strengthening relationships, meeting new people, finding opportunities, creating chances for serendipity and collisions.

Do yourself a favor and get out of the office. Meet some people. Create some opportunity. Where are you going next?