Focus like a laser on what really matters, learn how to actually get yourself to do it so you can accomplish your goals.
Have you ever taken a break at work and realized that you’re not actually enjoying yourself? You might be surfing the web or checking your email, but really you’re just looking around for something interesting.
The Problem: When your break is over, you don’t feel refreshed.
The Secret: A break isn’t “not working” for awhile, it’s letting go of work. Ideally you want forget about work completely, but still remember to come back. Tricky.
The Solution: Use a timer to keep track of time. A portable one is ideal because you can take it with you when you stand up and walk out of your office! That’s right. No more breaks sitting in front of your computer.
How It Works: You can’t relax or have fun when you’re watching the clock. In fact, we often associate fun with “losing track of time.”
Let the timer worry about time, you go out and have some fun.
Break Ideas:
Walk once around the block.
Do 10 pushups.
Take a shower.
Put on some music. Dance. Sing.
Go outside and take a few deep breaths.
Take a 5 minute mini-nap.
Play a video game (off the computer.)
Go find your dog or cat. Pet it.
Meditate. Be the rock.
Drink a tall glass of water.
Refill your coffee or tea, if that’s your style.
Play with your kids.
Attack a punching bag. Hiyyyya!
Do some simple exercises.
Drink some fresh juice.
Go for a bike ride.
Make yourself a smoothie.
Do some yoga.
Read a book.
Daydream…
Step out side and take a deep breath.
I think I will use the timer idea for work-projects too. I work at home sewing and writing but get lost (also while reading) and time goes by without taking breaks, stretching, doing household tasks, etc. Then the job seems to be too big or time consuming so I don’t want to return to it.
Perhaps if I set a certain amount of time at the desk or sewing machine and when the timer rings get up and do something else (like start making dinner).I have a lack of balance among my activities.
I think key to taking breaks and making sure to return to work is in the activities you take on that are both relaxing and productive.
As a design student in college, studio ethics are commonly rigorous and unhealthy. The key to successfully taking a break to relax, while creating efficiency is in for example: taking a bike ride, while still keeping the current project in the back of your mind. After I return to my studio, I often find that I was unconsciously thinking about the project and I am able to filter in some ideas that motivate me to get back to work.
I feel this is very much applicable in a job as well, when creativity and competition are on everyone’s top priority list.
Aaron what do you think?
Hi sarah,
IS THIS TRICK IS WORKING IN YOUR LIFE?
@Lj I think a timer would be a great help there, give it a shot. It’s perfect for throwing yourself into something without worrying you’ll get lost.
@Sarah I agree that mental downtime like that is often when we’re most creative.
Creativity is such an elusive thing. Personally I find I’m more creative away from my normal environment/routine. Thanks for the comment.
Hi, this is an excellent idea, sometimes you work so saturated that you can not think clearly. And sometimes you can cause stress and stress contractures, stretching is very good option.
Go outside and enjoy the beauty!