Producing extraordinary work requires learning to stop

We recently commissioned and produced some research on the New Zealand economy and labour market with the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research. Some of our own more anecdotal client insights were cross referenced and surprisingly or not they correlated with findings within this research. 

A conversation that has unfolded several times when I have presented our report has included the inability of some employees to disconnect or switch off from their work and the impact this can have on the individual and others within an organisation.

Remote access and smart phone technology seems to have a double edge.  Great on one hand for keeping things ticking over and providing mobile and flexible approaches to our work, but risky for more than just health reasons for those of us who are more inclined to the need of feeling constantly connected or in control or who are intrinsically wired to feel needed by their organisation and in our job.

I found this article interesting.  It cites some research linking the inability to switch off and stress responses in the brain, to long term engagement of employees.  It also highlights how a few global firms are tackling this issue.  

An easy read on some interesting and topical stuff! 

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/glue/201501/the-secret-staying-engaged-work