Unwind and unplug - 4 ways to take time for yourself. Your health needs it

There is no doubt that today's fast-paced business world is fueled by pushing for quicker turnaround times brought on by the advent of easy access to fast and convenient technology. We live in a world where efficiency is king, and expectations of running three tasks simultaneously are the new norm.

Suppose you're like this, then you know that spending multiple hours in front of a screen at your desk takes strain. While some of us have the luxury of being able to travel for vacation time, many of us, especially business owners, find ourselves spread way too thin. Yet despite this, you keep on going, pushing yourself to meet your obligations while not even realising the toll it takes on both mind and body.

We understand these demands all too well. And while vacation time may not be an option for you, there ARE ways to take a little time for yourself to recharge and become even more efficient in the process. You owe this to yourself! It's no way to live, but what else can you do?

1. Unwind, Undo and then Unplug

More people would be doing it if it were as simple as just switching off your device. Before you even consider shutting down your electronic distractions, you need to quiet the mental distractions in your mind.

When you're doing too much at once, you fall into a pattern psychologists call "Monkey Mind." In other words, the inability to calm your thinking while you jump from one branch of thought to another. You need to take a moment to collect your thoughts and be aware of your surroundings. In a few short minutes, focus on being as still as possible while trying to imagine the concept of nothingness.

When you've reached the point where you've gone from restless to relaxed, switch off your devices for an hour and spend a little time in the real world.

2. Narrow the focus - take things in your stride

Have you ever considered that your attention to detail wears thin while you're rushing to get things done? You've probably heard the saying that Rome wasn't built in a day, so you probably know what happens when your work quality starts to dip. You stress even more! Your immediate push back towards this step is - If I can't even find the time to unwind, how could I possibly narrow my focus?

Failing to narrow your focus and take things in their stride only diminishes your mental capacity. This is especially true if you're getting negative feedback for poor quality. Let's face it, having your boss come down on you only worsens the situation. Consider that if you prioritise work and focus on tasks individually, you'll be able to divert more energy to them and become more efficient in the process.

3. Look for the duality in things

As we get older, we become more set in our ways, seeing the world as black and white while ignoring the nuance. In a time of polarising opinions, getting charged up and hyper-fixated on your process over outcomes may one day completely derail your work ethic, forcing you to make rash decisions as you make mistake after mistake.

There is always another view, another angle, and another avenue from which to see a solution to your problem. Take a moment to consider the shades of grey within every task you perform to prevent yourself from falling into a robot mindset. For every black, there is white, and for every action, an equal and opposite reaction. 

4. Practising mindfulness

Mindfulness can also be defined as self-awareness or being "mindful" of your present psychological state. Many of us might be quick to point to the lack of self-awareness in others while being completely unaware of our own. So how do you achieve this, and where do you start?

There are a few steps to practising a simple form of mindfulness without spending hours meditating, and it comes in an amalgamation of differing techniques.

• Just being present: A simple technique derived from Taoist Tradition where one seeks simplicity (Wei) through non-action (Wu)- in other words, finding the time to be rather than simply reacting to every external influence.

• Find the joy in life: Laughter is, as they say, the best medicine. You won't feel as pessimistic about your day if you're smiling about something. And if you cant think of anything to laugh about presently, then you can find inspiration anywhere online.

• Be creative in your own space: You need to find a task you can do for yourself and your time. Whether you're building something, painting, or simply putting together a vast jigsaw puzzle, rediscover the aspects in life that you're missing by doing something you wouldn't normally do.

• Be mindful of your thoughts: Guard your thoughts closely. Thoughts can become words and words actions. Learn to divert your energy to more positive thinking before your mood sours your relationships.

• Work hard, but play hard too: Have fun! Seriously, you cannot keep going through the motions every day. Reimagine the things you enjoy doing. Whether it be taking a walk with your dogs, watching your favourite series, or seeing a friend. You need to enjoy life. Otherwise, what's the point?

Above all else, remember one thing. There is only one moment when it's essential to take a break. And that moment is in the here and now.

Contact Ikonic Real Estate today

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If you are looking to live in Silver Lakes Golf and lifestyle Estate, Silver Stream Estate, Lombardy Estate & Health Spa, The Ridge Estate, Six Fountains Estate, or Willow Acres Estate and surrounding areas then Ikonic Real Estate is your preferred property practitioner to assist you in all aspects of the selling and buying process.

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