What is conscious productivity and how does it help reduce work stress?
Let's see what is conscious productivity, and what are its advantages against stress at work.
Productivity is not about performing tasks non-stop or working 24 hours a day.What is conscious productivity and how does it help reduce work stress?
Let's see what is conscious productivity, and what are its advantages against stress at work. Productivity is not about performing tasks non-stop or working 24/7; in fact, trying to do something like that generates a great physical and psychological wear and is unsustainable in the medium and long term..
- In this article we explain everything you need to know about conscious productivity and how it can help you reduce stress.
What is mindful productivity?
Over the last decade, the idea of being more productive people has become popular around the world. However... What is it really like to be a productive person?
How do attempts to boost productivity impact on health? Thanks to productivity, we advance towards the conquest of new achievements (personal and professional); however, some "gurus" invite us to sleep less, eat faster, work more and take fewer breaks, all in order to become more productive people..
- With the passage of time, different studies have confirmed that this traditional productivity style can increase burnout levels in people and teams, create sleep problems and reduce quality of life.
The most important resource when faced with the need for productivity Have you ever thought of time as the most important resource? It is normal that it is this way; because of today's culture we come to understand time as the indispensable tool to achieve goals and objectives, but... Have you ever asked yourself if you have real control of time, or if you can pause or change it?Time is a resource that helps to advance the different calendars that exist in the world; however, there is a resource that is even more important for your productivity and it is...
your energy
. You can also know it as the mood or motivation you have to get things done. It works in a very similar way to the batteries in your phone or computer. When using all the power, you need to recharge it. On the other hand, if you use your battery without disconnecting it from the power, it may affect the overall performance. Something very similar happens with your energy.If you seek to accomplish as many tasks as possible without taking a break, this can increase the likelihood of increased stress.
- can increase the likelihood of increased stress and health problems, on the other hand, if you don't use the power, it can affect your overall functioning. On the other hand, if you don't use your energy, it can impact your emotional health. You need a balance between the four aspects of your energy: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.
A new definition of productivity
Traditional productivity can be defined as the output that is achieved in a given amount of time. . Here time is the protagonist, although we know that we do not have complete control over it..
- By placing energy as the most important resource, to move towards a conscious productivity we can define productivity as the conscious decision to use one's energy for a present purpose that is aligned with one's values, objectives and life purposes.
Daily habits to move toward conscious productivity..
Moving toward conscious productivity is a process; it takes time to adapt to a new work style. However, the most important thing is
that you can start with small daily habits in order to increase your productivity without negatively affecting your health, well-being and peace of mind.
1. Rest intervals
During the workday, it is key to have frequent breaks, of short or medium duration. A break refers to any action that helps you change your posture and focus for a few minutes.It should not be too long; starting with 5-minute breaks every 45 minutes will make a difference.
A useful tool in this regard is the pomodoro technique.
- . It consists of engaging in conscious work for 25 minutes followed by active breaks of 5 minutes. To enjoy the rest intervals to the fullest, we also recommend learning to meditate. It is a very simple practice to do, and the results on an emotional, physical and mental level are very profound.
2. Improve rest schedules
To have a good rest is the base to increase the well-being.
- . Sacrificing time to sleep to try to increase productivity is counterproductive, in the long term it can increase the risk of diseases. To make progress in this regard, create a bedtime routine. An hour before your average bedtime, create a space with low lighting, soothing smells and sounds that help you get a deep rest.
3. Practicing meditation and exercising mindfulness
Meditation is the practice of bringing your attention to your breathing; it seeks to connect you in the present.
It seeks to connect you in the present.Studies show that meditating regularly brings several benefits, such as stress reduction.
As a useful tool you can use the Pura Mente app
a resource to start meditating in a simple and easy way. There you will find more than 200 sessions focused on reducing stress, increasing focus and improving rest. You can download it on Android at this link or this one for iOS.4. Exercise and movement
Exercise helps stimulate the production of hormones such as dopamine, serotonin, endorphin and enkephalin, which are related to feelings of happiness and well-being.
which are related to feelings of happiness and well-being. Exercising for a few minutes a day will help increase your productivity and motivation.
You don't need a lot of time to start, begin with 15 minutes of walking every day. No distractions.
In case you don't have much time to exercise, it is key that you can take active breaks (as mentioned above). Maintaining the same posture or frequent video calls can produce mental fatigue that can be compensated in part with physical activity. 5. Hydration and good nutritionThe body is 70% water. Drinking water frequently during the day and having a balanced diet and calmly applied to daily life is a fundamental pillar to increase well-being and conscious productivity.
a fundamental pillar to increase well-being and conscious productivity.
. It is recommended that in each active break you drink a glass of water.
Conclusions
Productivity also changes with time and this new era has as its central axis the vital energy of each person.
In addition, energy is the most valuable resource in the productivity of the modern world. It seeks to achieve a total commitment to the present.On the other hand, rest is a fundamental pillar, not only for productivity but also for well-being.
Remember that productivity does not equal stress.
(Updated at Apr 12 / 2024)