Pause and Productivity

Time is precious. Most of us feel we run out of time or feel pressed for time, or it seems as if there are simply not enough hours in the day. As a result, we scurry around, trying to complete lots of chores, tasks, and details and end up feeling exhausted and depleted by days end. 

How then do we live in the present moment and use our time most effectively? The short answer: slow down and pause. Let's look at why pausing can be such an effective strategy:

The myth of multi-tasking. Our brains cannot do more than one thing at a time (there's a clue there!). Instead, when we think we are multi-tasking, we are just rapidly attention switching which often leads to a lack of attention and detail. As a result, we don't do our absolute best. We fail to get the details right and rush through projects and feel exhausted rather than proud of a job well done. Slowing down and paying attention to what is in front of us right now helps us focus and complete tasks more quickly than if we were trying to do several things simultaneously.

Don't just do something, sit there! Pausing and taking time to simply be still and at rest for a few minutes can be restorative and aide our productivity. None of us would run a power tool until it is squeeling and overheating. We know that electronics sometimes just need a re-boot. A bit of time unplugged can solve so many problems!

Finally, pausing and taking a bit of time outside can do wonders for our outlook and overall energy. Getting out in the sunshine for a short walk in the morning or over a lunch break can make a huge difference in our energy level and attitude. The natural world is also a great place to be reminded of the fact that growth takes time and nourishment. As living organisms, we all need water, sunlight, rest, and time to grow and bloom.

So the next time you find yourself rushing through your day, or bemoaning the fact that time feels fleeting, slow it down. Pause and do just one thing. Or pause and do nothing at all for a few minutes. Taking time to restore and re-energize leads to improved functioning and better productivity. You'll get more done and you'll feel better as you take a more restful path to moving forward.