Rest is Productive?? Gimme a Break!

As a career coach, one of the most frequent challenges my clients face is finding the perfect balance between work and rest. Many of my clients are high performers and leaders who value their commitments and their high levels of productivity.?

AND, an increasing?body of research ?is highlighting the importance of rest for productivity. It's it's time to start paying attention! The benefits of rest extend far beyond just feeling refreshed; they also include improved cognitive function, better memory, and enhanced creativity.

Recent?studies? in neuroscience have shown that rest plays a crucial role in the process of memory consolidation. During rest periods, our brains sort through the vast amount of information we've accumulated throughout the day, making connections and solidifying our memory.?

Rest is also linked to an increase in creativity. People who take regular breaks during their workday are more likely to come up with innovative solutions and ideas.?

Rest allows the brain to enter a default mode network (DMN) state, which enables it to wander and generate new thoughts and ideas. This is the same reason that great ideas come to us during meditation or day dreaming states.?

Those moments when you catch yourself staring off into space and letting your mind wander? No need to feel guilty! Daydreaming is a much more productive use of time than scrolling down the social media rabbit hole.

Rest also boosts productivity in the areas of focus and decision making. A well-rested brain is better equipped to concentrate on tasks, process information, and make rational choices. All of which ultimately lead to increased productivity.

Rest enhances problem solving skills as it allows the brain to process and synthesize information more effectively, helping us identify patterns and connections that may not be apparent during periods of constant activity. This ability to step back and view challenges from different perspectives is essential for effective problem-solving.

Ready to incorporate rest into your daily routine? Try these strategies to find the ones that work for you:

1. Schedule breaks?and treat rest periods as non-negotiable appointments in your calendar. Let yourself stare into space and let the creative juices flow!
2. Establish clear boundaries?between work and rest. This may include setting designated work hours and disconnecting from work-related communication outside of those times.
3. Prioritize sleep?to maintain optimal brain function. Create a consistent sleep schedule and establish a relaxing bedtime routine to signal to your brain that it's time to wind down.
4. Try?active rest .?Not all rest is created equal. Choose activities that genuinely help you recharge, such as?meditation , reading, or spending time in nature.

Prioritizing rest is not just about taking a break – it's an investment in your long-term success, productivity, and overall happiness! So, next time you’re pushing through, try taking a break and letting your mind wander instead. Who knows? Maybe you’ll come up with a novel idea you might otherwise have missed!

What will you be doing on your next scheduled break??