We all have busy lives and live every day with personal and professional pressures and stresses, working tirelessly to achieve ensuring we are earning enough or achieving enough, and all for a later time, however, we do need to think of now, today and not always for doing things, and being with people and taking time out for ourselves now, just for us, our wellbeing and health.
‘Taking time to smell the roses’ is an invaluable practice, even when faced with heavy workloads and conflicting deadlines. It may seem counterintuitive, but it can significantly improve your productivity, mental well-being, and overall work quality.
When you’re overwhelmed with work, the natural instinct is often to dive headfirst into tasks and deadlines without pausing for a moment. However, this approach can lead to burnout, decreased efficiency, and increased stress levels. Taking a step back to appreciate the small joys in life, symbolised by ‘smelling the roses’ can have several benefits:
Stress Reduction: Stepping away from work momentarily allows you to release tension and reduce stress. This brief respite can help you return to your tasks with a clearer mind and greater focus.
Creativity Boost: Slowing down and taking in your surroundings can stimulate creativity. You may find innovative solutions to problems or new ways to approach your work when you give your mind a chance to wander.
Improved Mental Health: Neglecting self-care in the face of heavy workloads can lead to mental health issues. ‘Smelling the roses’ is a form of self-care that supports your well-being and resilience.
Enhanced Focus: Regular breaks, even if they’re short, can improve concentration. It prevents mental fatigue and ensures you remain productive and efficient throughout the day.
Perspective Shift: When you immerse yourself in the present moment, you gain perspective on your workload. You can better prioritise tasks and tackle them with a clearer sense of purpose.
Quality Improvement: Rushing through tasks to meet deadlines often results in lower-quality work. Taking time to appreciate the journey can lead to better outcomes.
To implement this practice effectively, schedule short breaks throughout your workday. These breaks should be moments of mindfulness, where you engage your senses and appreciate your surroundings. Whether it’s enjoying a cup of tea, going for a brief walk, or simply gazing out the window, these moments of respite can reinvigorate you.
Ultimately, ‘smelling the roses’ doesn’t mean neglecting your responsibilities. It means recognizing that your well-being and the quality of your work are interconnected. By taking time for yourself amid heavy workloads and deadlines, you can find a balance that allows you to be both productive and fulfilled.
If you are looking for support, perhaps having personal life coaching or business coaching & mentoring might be a way of providing you that help to make time where it’s most needed.
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To find out more email Debs on: debs@successfactor.co.nz
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