Be More Mindful At Work

At this time of year, it can be easy to operate on autopilot in order to get things done. You probably have a list of things a mile long that need to be completed before you take a short break over Christmas, and you are keen to start crossing those off to enjoy a well-deserved break. Rather than get through the day on auto-pilot, it is essential that you stay present and be mindful of your environment. But how is that possible when you are up to your ears in work?

Catch your mind wandering

You may notice your mind wandering while you are going about your business. When this happens, try to catch yourself and bring your attention back to the task at hand. It is so easy to focus on your Christmas shopping or plan what you are going to have for dinner, but it doesn’t allow you to be adequately present and operating at your best. Make a special effort to work more consciously. If necessary, take a short break and then come back to whatever it is you should be doing.

Stop multitasking

We are led to believe that multitasking is good for us. But the truth is, when you multitask, you are not able to give 100% of your attention to anything. It may make you feel more productive in that moment, and even can be quite addictive, but in the long-term it stops you from being able to concentrate on any one job for an extended period of time. How many times have you sat down in front of the television while checking your phone for messages? We are all guilty of multitasking in our personal and professional life to some degree. Start cultivating good habits and aim to complete one single task at a time. When that is done, then you can move on to the next.

Rest is important

We somehow think that we have to work more and rest less. But the truth of the matter is that without sufficient rest, we are unable to operate at our most efficient. When we are tired, we struggle to make the greatest decisions or even to perform to our best. The same goes when we are so busy that we cannot think straight due to an overflowing inbox. Always make an effort to get enough rest, particularly when you need to make crucial decisions. Rushing into anything without giving it enough thought is not a very mindful way to operate.

Set a reminder

Think about what is important to you – what are you aiming for? Is it success? Power? Creativity? Whatever it is, set the alarm on your phone, computer or laptop so that it goes off at a certain time each day to remind you of your purpose. Let yourself be reminded, if only for a moment. It will help bring your attention back to what you deem critical. Check yourself – are you currently doing what is necessary to serve that purpose? Now carry on!

Show your gratitude

It is easy to let the negativity seep into your mind. One way to stop this from happening – especially when things don’t seem to go your way – is to practice gratitude. It makes you healthier and happier, and gives you the opportunity to take a step back and think about all the great things you have going for you. Make it a daily chore to note down the things that went well at the end of a busy day. Something must have gone right, even if it didn’t feel like it. Focus on that and use that energy to keep you moving forward in a positive fashion.

Focus on growth

Remember your aim – power, success or whatever it may be – well, it cannot be achieved with developing a growth mindset. By constantly improving your mind and learning, you can get to where you want to go. You can build on your skills, handle stress, and show your determination in everything you do. Don’t limit or pigeon hole yourself into a position. Through mindfulness you can learn to be open to new possibilities and be able to cope with whatever challenges lie ahead.