It’s your life

Last week I shared my most important tip to upgrade your life. Did you try it? I’d love to hear how it went. Today, I wanted to share another way to upgrade your life, and you may think you’ve heard it before. And, yes you may be familiar with part of it, but are you doing anything about it?

Take a Break

What I’m talking about is getting enough rest and recharging. Being busy and getting little sleep has become a badge of honor. But, it doesn’t have to be that way. If you’re rested you are actually more productive. Why do you think companies give you vacation time? They know that if you get a break and recharge you will be a better employee. You will also be a better business owner, parent and spouse. I have several clients who’ve told me that when they’ve taken time away for themselves, their teenagers have noticed and commented about how much they needed it! Take some time away before you get to that point.

Additionally, schedule time to recharge throughout the day. You can focus roughly fifty minutes at a time before you start to lose your attention. Schedule meetings and time blocks for fifty minutes and then standup, walk around, get some water, talk to a co-worker (even if that’s your dog) to clear your head and then jump back in. You’ll be much more productive than if you try to power through. Keep this in mind when you’re in discussion with your teenager or partner, also. Sometimes the best way to get through to a resolution is for both of you to step away for a bit to clear your heads before either of you say something you don’t mean.

It’s also helpful to take an hour or so during the day to recharge. Instead of eating lunch at your desk, take a break, walk the dog, call a friend, meditate, do something to give your brain a rest. This allows you come back stronger not only helping you be more productive, but putting you in a better mood, as well.

Upgrade by prioritizing you

Of course, you need to get adequate sleep, 7-9 hours a day, with 1.5 – 2 hours of deep sleep. I use a sleep app on my Apple watch to track the time, but if you’re not feeling refreshed, you’re likely not getting enough of one or both.

If you don’t slow down it could lead to brain fatigue, which will send you in the opposite direction from an upgrade. Being the Energizer Bunny doesn’t help you be the best or even most productive you. The sentiment, Less is More, is a real thing. I wish I’d listened sooner.

If you’re feeling that your emotions have the best of you and want to learn more about which emotion you lead with, take my quiz to find out.