For many entrepreneurs, managers and creative people, it has never been so difficult to concentrate. According to the British magazine New Statesman Google searches for “how to get your brain to focus” increased by 300% between February and early May 2020.

Disrupted routines are partly responsible for derailed attention spans, but biology is also part of the cause.

When your brain detects impending danger, the prefrontal cortex—the area responsible for critical thinking, impulse control, and concentration—gives way to the more primitive functions that protect you in the present moment. The pandemic is a constant threat, but most of us are not in immediate danger. Nevertheless, this often chaotic situation requires clarity. To keep a business afloat or plan for an ever-changing future, you need to think strategically - not frantically.

The good news? Strategic thinking is an exercise. Even as the world changes beneath our feet, we can cultivate the ability to generate new ideas and make brilliant, unexpected connections. Here are three ways to focus on the big picture.

Take time to think

When you jump from one task to the next, you cannot process new information. Your brain needs time to process ideas. Reflection gives the brain a chance to pause in the midst of chaos, sort through observations and experiences, consider multiple possible interpretations, and find meaning. This meaning becomes a learning process that can then form the basis for future ways of thinking and acting.

Taking time off is an opportunity to reflect on what's important, what's possible - and how our company can do it better. Few of us are vacationing or spending a week knee-deep in olives right now, but we can still stop and think.

If you find it difficult to step away from the daily details, you can set aside an hour in your calendar. Think of it as a non-negotiable date. Minimize distractions and ask yourself questions like, “What will success look like in 2, 5, or 10 years?” Think 6-8 weeks or even six months into the future and ask about your company or career: "How do our current projects contribute to your vision?"

Strategic thinking is important, but it's not always comfortable. You may experience creative breakthroughs and feel inspired to keep going. Or maybe you feel vulnerable, anxious, annoyed or even bored. Take a deep breath, stay with these feelings and hold on.

Surrender to change

The pandemic has already affected millions of people around the world. From the loss of jobs to the loss of people, this crisis cannot be glossed over. At the same time, there are always glimmers of hope in difficult moments. Consider how you can adapt to the economic, cultural and social changes of the last few months - even if they are changes you don't welcome.

For example, can you develop an offer that combines digital and personal offers? Could a physical product transform into a virtual service? How can you create more value as an employee? And most importantly, how can you help others adapt to new circumstances?

Broaden your perspective

Traveling is always one of the best ways to develop new ideas, whether you're attending a conference or traveling the world. Most trips aren't planned any time soon, but you can still connect with people who challenge and excite you. Arrange a brainstorming session with a friend or colleague. Read about topics that are not your normal interests.

If you have time, take an online course or watch live presentations. You've probably seen some great TED talks.

You can also explore strategic relationships. Many top companies work with employees, customers and other organizations to expand their thinking. For example, Nike and Apple teamed up to create Nike+, while Barnes & Noble bookstores invited Starbucks to create in-house coffee shops.

In other words, with a broader range of viewpoints, you can create something that goes beyond your individual efforts.