The importance of taking time off

In this show I talked about the problems within our culture of working harder and longer and how time off can really help with creativity and problem solving.

How working harder and longer doesn’t help us get more done and really can take away from our own happiness and fulfillment.

Our ability to focus on a task is extremely limited. What I mean is that sitting at your computer for 6 hours is not really effective. Some studies show that we only have the ability to focus for just a few minutes at a time.

Most of us are only about 25% effective at executing at task or job at work.

If we are so ineffective, why do we spend so much time at work?

One solution

Making space in our lives for clearing our minds. This can happen in many ways but most of us are notoriously bad at this exercise.

Its really a practice. Its similar to going to the gym and lifting weights. You will get better at taking time off if you practice.  Many creatives and entrepreneurs start of projects and a mind clearing exercise.

Try this simple exercise on some problem you are working on right now. It could be anything, what to write in a sales email, what to have for dinner, etc. Step outside for a few minutes and focus of something in nature. Possibly a plant or tree, or the way the sunlight reflects off the side of a building.  Just try and notice as many details about your focus item as possible. If you find yourself starting to think back to your problem, refocus.  Imagine you are a photographer looking for textures and details.

Once your done, go back to your problem of project and see if you feel a little more energized.

Here is a simple breakdown of what time off can look like.

• Short Term- This may be taking a minute away from what you are doing.
• Mid Term- This is usually a long daily break – in the show I talk about my long walks with my dog
• Longer Term- These are weekly, monthly, quarterly, retreats where we take time completely away from our normal routine.

Listen in to this show on what you will actually do during this time off and how it can help you bring more of yourself to your business and life.

All of this is part of a bigger practice of mindfulness in business. Listen to this earlier episode about meditation and mindfulness.