Do a little less

“To be more productive, do a little less.”

This is from a highly intellectual book called “Really Important Stuff My Dog Has Taught Me.” Despite the playfulness of the title, there’s good lessons in this little book.

And after the past three years, I feel the need to do less.

I’ve written about the importance of “white space” in your brain (and life) to inspire creativity, enhance thoughtfulness and allow you to “just be.” This is where time off comes into play.

It doesn’t matter if your time off is a vacation in an exotic location or simply a day at home. The point is to get away from your work life and allow your mind to recharge.

A week long vacation in a new place encourages new ideas. If your time off is spent at home, you are still benefiting because you are away from work. Your “time off at home” only works if you truly do not check in with work. You may be tempted because you are “just at home” and aren’t “technically” on vacation. Don’t do that! You have taken that time off for a reason. Treat it like a vacation.

Time off can come in many forms – even 15 minutes helps clear your head. Here’s some other ways to “do a little less” at home, even if it’s only for a few minutes.

Get outside. I like this one because I #workfromhome and it’s really hard to get out of my basement office. Sometimes all it takes is 15 minutes on my back deck to help me solve problems.

Read (or watch your favorite show). There may be controversy about “watching TV” but if you have a favorite show and you love watching it, that helps you come back to work refreshed and ready to tackle the next item on your to do list.

Pet your pet. Yep – I love hanging out with our dog, Ali. She’s a good listener and it’s relaxing to be around her.

Exercise. I feel so much better after a physical workout. Plus, I can catch up on my podcasts, listen to my books, or listen so I’m entertained too!

Bottom line: Step away from your computer and let your mind rest.