Pleasure as a Productivity Hack: Fueling Your Work and Life with Joy

"The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing" - Walt Disney

Do you ever feel unmotivated or drained of your creative juices at work? This is a common challenge for many of us, but there’s a surprising solution: pleasure. I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Courtney Fae Long, an international speaker, author, and visionary in leadership development, especially for women. Our conversation revealed how pleasure can be a powerful productivity hack, igniting your leadership fire and enhancing your overall well-being.

Understanding the Connection Between Pleasure and Productivity

Courtney shared that society often views productivity and pleasure as mutually exclusive. However, integrating pleasure into our daily routines can significantly boost our productivity. A study on newlywed couples found that sexual pleasure resulted in increased happiness, connection, and energy for up to 48 hours after the experience. This "afterglow" effect illustrates how pleasure can positively impact our work and relationships.

Incorporating Everyday Pleasure

Incorporating pleasure into your workday doesn’t require drastic changes. Start with everyday pleasures—those small moments that bring you joy. For instance, savor your morning coffee instead of rushing through it, or take a few minutes to enjoy the taste of your lunch. These simple acts of mindfulness can make a significant difference in your overall mood and productivity.

Embracing Sensual and Sexual Pleasure

Sensual pleasure involves engaging your senses fully. This could be enjoying a relaxing massage, taking a moment to feel the warmth of the sun on your skin, or smelling your favorite essential oil. On the other hand, sexual pleasure is about embracing your sexual energy, which can boost confidence, creativity, and overall vitality. Courtney emphasizes that sexual energy isn't solely about sex; it’s about feeling alive and passionate, which can then be channeled into your work and other aspects of your life.

Practical Tips for Balancing Pleasure and Work

1. Schedule Joy Breaks: Take five-minute joy breaks throughout your day. Whether it’s watching a funny video, texting a friend, or stepping outside for fresh air, these small breaks can refresh and energize you.
2. Tune Into Your Body: Regularly check in with yourself. Are you feeling stressed or disconnected? Take a moment to breathe deeply, stretch, or engage in a quick grounding exercise.
3. Plan Self-Care Activities: Incorporate self-care appointments into your schedule, like a mid-day massage or a walk in nature. These activities can replenish your energy and creativity.
4. Prioritize Sacred Self-Care: Beyond basic self-care like eating and sleeping, identify activities that help you thrive, such as enjoying hobbies, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in creative pursuits.

Overcoming Resistance to Pleasure

Many of us feel guilty or unproductive when we take time for pleasure. However, Courtney encourages us to recognize that pleasure is not only beneficial but essential for our well-being and productivity. By filling our own cups first, we can better serve others and excel in our professional roles.

The journey to integrating pleasure into your work and life may seem daunting, especially during stressful times. However, even small steps can make a significant impact. Start by acknowledging your needs, scheduling moments of joy, and observing how these practices transform your energy and productivity. As Courtney beautifully put it, "Your own pleasure is not just for you; it’s for everyone around you, and it’s part of your purpose."

Balancing work and pleasure is not only possible but also essential for sustainable success. By embracing everyday, sensual, and sexual pleasures, you can enhance your productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. Remember, you matter and you are loved. Prioritize your pleasure and watch as it transforms your work and life in remarkable ways.