How to Give Yourself More Space to Think: A Young Professional’s Guide to Clarity in a Busy World
- Sia Savla
- May 26
- 4 min read
I've been studying for the past 18 years, and multi tasking extra curriculars for the past 10 years. As someone now living independently, and balancing multiple things at once, I’ve found that one of the biggest challenges in today’s fast-paced world is simply finding space to think. Between classes, internships, social media, and the constant barrage of notifications, carving out time for deep reflection and creative problem-solving can feel nearly impossible.
The Harvard Business Review article How to Give Yourself More Space to Think (2025) resonated deeply with me because it addresses this exact challenge. It explains that many of us are trapped in a cycle of multitasking and distraction, which fragments our attention and stifles creativity. Yet, the ability to think deeply—to pause, reflect, and connect ideas—is critical for making better decisions and driving innovation.
The Modern Attention Crisis
Growing up in India, I was used to a certain rhythm of life—long study hours, family meals, and moments of quiet that naturally allowed space for thought. Moving to the US, I quickly realized how different the environment was. The pace is relentless, and digital distractions are omnipresent. The article points out that this “attention crisis” is not just a personal problem but a systemic one, fueled by workplace cultures that reward busyness over reflection.
For young professionals like me, this means we must be intentional about creating boundaries and habits that protect our mental space. The article’s advice to schedule “thinking time” on our calendars struck a chord. At Fuqua, I started blocking off time each day—sometimes just 30 minutes—to step away from screens and emails and focus on big-picture thinking. This simple practice has been transformative.
Minimizing Interruptions and Creating Focused Environments
The HBR piece also highlights the importance of minimizing interruptions. This can mean turning off non-essential notifications, setting “do not disturb” periods, or designing physical workspaces that reduce noise and distractions. I’ve experimented with noise-cancelling headphones and quiet study zones both in India and the US, finding that environment significantly impacts my ability to concentrate.
In India, where family and social life are deeply intertwined, carving out physical and mental space can be challenging but essential. The article’s suggestion to communicate boundaries clearly—to colleagues, friends, and family—resonates with me. It’s about creating a culture that respects focused time.
Mindfulness and Reflection as Tools for Thinking
Another key insight from the article is the role of mindfulness and reflection. Practices like meditation, journaling, or simply taking mindful walks can help clear mental clutter and foster creativity. Growing up with yoga and meditation as part of my cultural heritage, I’ve had experiences with them, but found journaling to be more invaluable in managing stress and enhancing focus for me. It is about finding what fits with you best.
The article encourages integrating mindfulness into daily routines, not as a separate task but as a way of being. This aligns with my experience—mindfulness isn’t just about relaxation; it’s about cultivating awareness that allows deeper thinking and better decision-making.
The Benefits of Giving Yourself Space to Think
Why is this so important? The article emphasizes that giving yourself space to think leads to better decisions, more innovative ideas, and improved well-being. In my own journey, I’ve noticed that when I rush through tasks without reflection, I’m more prone to mistakes and burnout. Conversely, when I allow time for thoughtful consideration, I approach challenges with clarity and creativity.
This is especially relevant in business analytics and marketing, where data can overwhelm and quick decisions are often demanded. Pausing to interpret data thoughtfully, rather than reacting impulsively, leads to more effective strategies.
Practical Steps for Students and Young Professionals
The Harvard Business Review article offers practical steps that I’ve adopted and recommend:
Schedule Thinking Time: Treat reflection as a non-negotiable appointment.
Create Distraction-Free Zones: Use technology settings and physical spaces to minimize interruptions.
Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate meditation, journaling, or mindful breathing into your routine.
Communicate Boundaries: Let others know when you need focused time.
Embrace Slow Thinking: Resist the urge to multitask; focus deeply on one thing at a time.
Bridging Cultures and Contexts
What’s fascinating is how these principles apply across cultures. Whether in the bustling cities of India or the fast-paced environments of the US, the need for mental space is universal. The challenge is adapting strategies to local contexts—whether that means finding quiet corners in a busy Mumbai home or negotiating focused time in a collaborative American office.
For me, blending the mindfulness traditions of India with the productivity tools popular in the US has been a powerful way to create space for deep thinking.
Final Thoughts
In a world that glorifies hustle and speed, the Harvard Business Review article reminds us that real success comes from the ability to pause, reflect, and think deeply. As a young professional navigating two cultures, I believe that mastering this balance is key to thriving personally and professionally.
Giving yourself more space to think isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. It’s how we innovate, solve problems, and connect meaningfully with our work and the world.
Whether you’re a student, professional, or a homemaker, carving out mental space is one of the most valuable investments you can make. As I continue my journey, I’m committed to protecting this space, knowing it will fuel my growth and creativity for years to come.
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