Four "unproductive" habits that can make you more productive

28.01.2022

FOUR "UNPRODUCTIVE" HABITS THAT CAN MAKE YOU MORE PRODUCTIVE

2020 has brought new challenges in the way entrepreneurs attract customers, use technology and outperform their competitors.

Many business leaders are working hard to adapt to these changes. Unfortunately, using this approach is exhausting for the mind and body and counterproductive for finding innovative ideas, writes wellness coach Stacy Stratton at Entrepreneur.com.

If you are looking for ways to be more productive, try these four "unproductive" habits to improve your energy levels and creativity and take your business to the next level.

  1. Sleep until later

How long should you sleep? The amount of sleep depends on the needs of your body, but your goal is to wake up rested. While you sleep, your body performs the basic maintenance it needs. Your cells recover, your brain processes information, and your nervous system relaxes.

When you steal from your sleep, you steal from yourself. If you like waking up early, try to get things in order so you go to bed earlier. If you want to stay up late at night, start allowing yourself to sleep until later.

  1. Take many breaks

When deadlines are running out, it's easy to forget what's best for the brain. You may think you just have to keep going, but a 2011 University of Illinois study shows that focusing too long on a task actually lowers productivity.

Something simple, such as a brisk walk, can help creativity and increase energy. There are several different methods and techniques you can choose to follow. One is to take breaks every 25 minutes, and another is to work non-stop for 90 minutes. The most important thing is to determine which approach works best for you.

Take enough time for activities that provide your mind and body with what you need. One of the breaks may include stretching, another for healthy eating and a short nap to cheer you up.

  1. Laugh

Children laugh many times a day, while the average adult laughs much less. Adults have a lot of responsibilities and stress, but it is important to find ways to do things every day that make you laugh and bring you joy.

A few years ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) described "stress" as the "21st Century Health Epidemic." Since then, the COVID-19 pandemic has increased the levels of stress that people are exposed to at work and at home.

One way to deal with stress is through laughter. When you laugh, your body releases endorphins, which lower stress and improve your mood. Studies also show that laughter can help lower blood pressure.

Every day, try to find ways to laugh more. It only takes a few minutes to quickly watch a video or talk to a funny friend, and then you will immediately begin to feel the benefits.

  1. Do nothing

Is your calendar full of appointments, projects, and endless things to do? Constantly working on several tasks at once and a busy schedule can make you feel overwhelmed and exhausted. It is important to take the time to spend in silence every day.

Meditation can be an effective way to relax the mind while promoting creativity and concentration. It can also help reduce stress levels and negative emotions.

Meditation may seem daunting or even difficult because your thoughts are wandering, but there are many great applications that can help you with this process. It may be helpful to start with just a few minutes a day and then increase the time.