When it comes to performing well at work, sometimes our stress can get the better of us. It can be easy to become overwhelmed and overrun. Burnout is a real thing, and if you’re coupling that with not getting enough sleep or adequate nutrition, you’ve got a recipe for disaster. We all know drinking coffee gives us a little boost, but what are the other things we can do to safely and healthily increase our work performance? The following will explore four things that you can try to help keep your focus, concentration, productivity, and creativity at optimal levels throughout the workday.
Meditate (But Actually)
You’ve heard this one before. Meditation does improve your focus and concentration. Beyond this, it improves your mood and your ability to respond to stressors or problems at work. We know it’s hard to find the time, but truly, five minutes each day can make a big difference. There’s a zen proverb that goes: “You should sit in meditation for twenty minutes each day. Unless you’re too busy, then you should sit for an hour. The benefits will improve not only your work performance but also other areas of your life. You’ll feel a difference in your relationships, wellbeing, and health as well.
Look Into Natural Supplements
It’s hard to get everything we need daily, especially if we’re busy. Coffee is only going to get you so far. Take a moment to learn about the essential fats, vitamins, and nutrients needed for optimal brain function (spoiler alert, omega fatty acids will be on this list). Then take a look at your diet and see what’s missing. Seek out supplements or another natural performance enhancer to help you get what you need. Making sure your body gets everything it needs can make a big difference not only in your work performance but in your energy levels after work, your mental clarity, and your well being.
Keep A Plant Or Two In Your Office
This one is so simple it seems like a joke. It’s not. Studies have shown that indoor plants help clean the air of toxins and increase oxygen levels in the air (which you need to concentrate). Beyond this, plants boost focus, productivity, creativity, and mood and reduce feelings of stress or anxiety. Some studies have even found that keeping indoor plants reduces the symptoms of depression. On top of all of this, they’re lovely to look at.
Maximize The Natural Lighting
Natural lighting, that is, the light you get from the sun, has countless health benefits. Some of these benefits help with your focus, concentration, and ability to cope with stressors. Keeping the blinds open at work is incredibly easy to do, but it can make a big difference in your productivity.
The above four tips are all relatively easy to implement but will help you perform your best at work. As with any health-related advice online, always listen to your body, and trust your instincts. Wellbeing has never been a one size fits all recipe.
WRITTEN BY
Daria Brown