The Park Bench Principle

James R. Rector
Publisher, Profiles in Leadership Journal

A park bench is not about speed. It is about presence. People sit, pause, and notice what is around them. Leaders need park benches too.

The Park Bench Principle reminds leaders to step out of the rush and create space to see clearly. A few minutes of unhurried reflection can reveal patterns that a busy schedule hides. Sometimes the most important leadership move is to sit still long enough for insight to arrive.

Teams benefit when leaders make time for benches. It shows that slowing down is not weakness but wisdom. It models the discipline of perspective.

At Home

Families know the power of benches. A parent who sits quietly with a child, or a couple who shares a moment on a porch swing, create connection without agenda. Presence itself becomes the gift.

Your question: Where can you build a bench into your week so you and your team can see what constant motion is hiding?

About the series: The 3-Minute Leader™ is a weekly micro-essay for emerging and promotable executives.