I used to think that the longer and harder you worked the more you got done, and I don’t think I’m alone. We live in a world of constant connectivity, demand and deadlines, and juggling our to-do lists can sometimes seem like a seriously uphill battle.
So when you think about how many things you have on your to-do list, taking the time to stop and actually be aware of what you are thinking seems counterproductive right?
In the past, I certainly thought so, but then I discovered Mindfulness.
Now let me clarify…when I say mindfulness, I don’t mean meditating and chanting at your desk (although if that’s what floats your boat feel free!). I mean taking the time to be aware of your thinking, slowing down and considering where you are and what REALLY needs to be done. Rather than getting caught up in the stress and rush of everyday life.
As ironic as it may seem, taking the time to stop what you are doing and mindfully consider your day has been shown to significantly improve productivity.
How does it do that you may ask? It…
- Allows you to avoid being distracted and ensures you finish tasks quicker with greater accuracy.
- Can actually improve your immune system function, keeping you healthy and working when you need to be!
- Improves your decision-making ability, reducing time wasted with poor decisions, and their fallout.
- Improves stability, control and efficiency. People who regularly practise mindfulness are able to remain focused on tasks for longer periods of time.
- Removes our natural tendency to work in “reactivity mode” and allows you to focus on, and complete, the most important tasks each day.
Seriously, I could go on…but ultimately if there is a tool that improves the quality of your work, assists you in making better decisions, ensures you achieve the most important task every day and reduces your stress levels you should be using it right?
No matter how amazingly organised you think you are, there is always room for improvement. Be open to trying something new and you might find some time you didn’t even know you had! Let us know if you’ve tried Mindfulness as a productivity hack.