Being productive can feel exhilarating. It can provide a rush that energizes you, inspires you, motivates you, and has you reach your goals. Productive people are focused on their goals and take charge of their lives.
It is a common misconception that productivity is tantamount to being busy. They are not one and the same. Busyness can happen at times, but it can really mean being over-committed instead. Sometimes, it is unavoidable. Sometimes, life throws us things to do that we did not plan on, nor do we have much of a choice about. The key to balancing these times of increased tasks is to take the time to “do nothing.” This nothing is intentional and fulfilling. It should not be confused with laziness or lack of drive. Doing “nothing” can actually increase your productivity.
Getting things done can take more than hard work, diligence, and knowledge. Sometimes, during “crunch times,” it can feel like the need to push is even stronger. You keep your head down and don’t allow any distractions to seep in. Working harder, is not necessarily the most productive way to accomplish tasks, however. It can lead to stress, burnout, insomnia, and even illness. In the effort to achieve greater success, we can actually lose our awareness and enjoyment of life
Every now and then, a well-placed “timeout” can be extremely effective. When you are faced with so much to get done in so little time, it can feel overwhelming. It can feel like everything is an equal priority and has to all get done right away. You may go to bed wondering how you’ll ever get it all done. To-do-lists are great ways to jot down all you need to get done in your day, but the need to say “yes” to everyone and everything that comes along can actually hinder progress. Being busy can actually become a default setting. Worst of all, it may take energy away from the things you enjoy.
Some of the most productive people place importance not only on being effective, but also on the value of doing “nothing” so they can be more efficient at doing their many “somethings.”
Check out these 10 reasons why productive people make time for nothing:
1. Doing nothing gives them perspective.
The big ideas often come when productive people step away from what they are working on. Taking a break and opting for a change of scenery can bring clarity when they return to their lives.
2. Doing nothing gives their bodies time to catch up on rest.
Rest and relaxation are keys to good health. Coincidentally, vital people get more done.
3. It leaves room for something new to come in.
When the most productive people step away from their busy lives, new people and experiences have the room to show up. The daily grind can lead to dissatisfaction and a hopeless feeling like nothing is getting done.
4. Their creative fires are fueled.
Taking breaks can be the best muse.
5. Their minds quiet…
…and stress is alleviated when the most productive people take a timeout to themselves.
6. Being prone allows our nervous system to rest.
According to Chloe Park of Mind Body Green.com, without this kind of relaxation, we are only operating at 70% capacity. Stress is actually counter-productive.
7. Resting the body releases tension, which makes them able to endure longer days.
When they lay down to rest, their spines elongate, letting gravity give their bodies the rest they need to do more.
8. They mediate and find clarity and equanimity, alleviating stress and re-activity.
Oprah Winfrey talks about the value of meditation by saying, “Only from that space can you create your best work and your best life.”
9. They know if they do not take time to relish in their accomplishments…
…their productivity has no real value.
10. They understand the power of saying “no”.
If they say no to some things they can actually give themselves the breathing room to say “yes” to do more of what they want in life.
Featured photo credit: Handsome hipster relaxing on campsite at a music festival via shutterstock.com
The post 10 Reasons Why The Most Productive People Make Time For Doing Absolutely Nothing appeared first on Lifehack.
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