In this day and era there are multiple factors in each of our lives that can increase the amount of stress that we feel on a daily basis. This can be because of the work load that others give us or the amount we put on ourselves. The human capacity to do things is limited, not in terms of what can be accomplished during the span of several years, but when little time is allocated to a specific task. Stress, like many other stimuli that affects our mental and physical health when present in excess, is an indicator of how well we are doing in adopting to our changed environment. Naturally, if we’re not doing too well, we will feel overwhelmed and consequently perform badly. So, what is the solution that counteracts this feeling?
Well, it might not be as evident, but taking a break and doing an activity that you enjoy boosts your productivity and allows you to empty your cup, in a sense, in order to start fresh and attack those given tasks.
Why does it work?
Back in the old days, rich people used this method to reflect upon life’s biggest stress elicitors. How did they do that? The answer is simple, when they would feel that their efforts were fruitless, they would go golfing or take a walk in their gardens. The methodology behind this is – giving your mind a break from the stress that surrounds it and taking a moment in the day to think about nothing doing something enjoyable. To further explain this methodology, it is important to understand that a goal or an achievement is not about what is gathered in the end. In fact, it never really is, it’s about what is gathered during the process and the conclusions that come after attaining it. So, when your actions are fruitless and you feel stressed or miserable doing the task required of you, you won’t be able to perform or do you best. Why? Simply because you don’t have the capability of putting your best foot forward and consequently this will show in the work that you present.
What’s next?
Now that you understand the importance of fruitful action or purposeful action, it is essential that you take a step back and analyze the stressors in your life and start changing them. For example, if you’re stressed at work when your boss comes in or when a colleague is very up and around your business, avoid being in situations where you are put in a vulnerable position. Of course, that doesn’t apply as smoothly to the example of your boss, but in that instance, be prepared for any questions that might be asked of you. Preparation is key in this battle.
Take the time to sit with yourself and note the things that you enjoy, whether it is going out for coffee or reading or even cruising around in your car late at night. Take these things, write them down and start doing them the moment you feel that your stress levels are affecting your work performance and then watch as your productivity and energy spikes up again.