By Rebecca Chappell,
Account Executive
Studies show that U.S. workers now spend more time at work than anyone else in the world. Back in 1970, American employees typically worked about 35
hours per week. Today, the average workweek is 46 hours.
Considering how many of us exist within an enclosed
structure the majority of the time, it makes sense that we should reduce
unnecessary stress from our work environment for the sake of our well-being.
Now and Zen
Try starting your day by reflecting on an inspirational
message or what you hope to accomplish before quittin’ time. I always feel
better equipped to handle the inevitable stress in the pipeline if I take a few
minutes first thing in the morning to go over my to-do list or read a daily dose of goodness.
To that end, I try to complete each workday by clearing off my desk and setting
up my to-do list for the next day. This exercise in itself allows me to leave
my work load at work rather than fretting
at home over what may or may not have slipped through the cracks.
Brake for Breaks
According to time-management expert Peter Bregman, we all
reach task
fatigue – when the effort we're putting into staying on task seems greater
than the effort we're putting into moving forward in the task. It's the point
when our productivity plummets, when our eyes glaze over and our mind wanders. The
solution is easy: Either switch to a new task or get up and move. Take a walk
around the block, do some jumping jacks or engage in some desk
yoga. And for Pete’s sake, even if you brown bag it, eat lunch somewhere
other than your desk! Studies indicate that up to two-thirds of American
workers skip lunch or eat lunch at their desks. Since I’m among the two-thirds, this advice falls
into please-do-as-I-say-and-not-as-I-do category. But I do know the difference. Taking a real
lunch as well as mini-breaks throughout the day not only recharges your energy for
the next item on your to-do list, it helps head off the infamous afternoon
slump.
Color Your World
When it comes to decorating your work space, don’t
underestimate the psychological
effects of color on mood and productivity. Red, for
example, has been shown to increase concentration and stamina; however, it
may also illicit feelings of aggression. On the other hand, its sister shade of
pink induces feelings of relaxation. Generally speaking, warm tones such as orange
and yellow are considered cheerful, happy colors. Cool tones such as blue and
purple lower blood pressure and create a sense of balance, although too much
dark blue can be depressing. If you work in a cubicle or your boss won’t let
you paint the walls, try outfitting your zone with inspiring art or knickknacks
in the colors that suit your needs.
Breathe Easy
Several studies from
the past 10 to 15 years show a view from the window can affect our sense of
well-being. Don’t have a window office? Research has also shown that indoor plants have direct
beneficial effects on psychological health, task performance, illness reduction
and productivity. What’s more, whether you have a window or not, indoor plants
can significantly improve an office environment by purifying the air and balancing humidity, which may result in fewer sick days. Not sure
what plant to get? NASA did a study to find out which plants were best to filter the
air of the space station. Check out the results here.
Image credit: ssilver / 123RF Stock Photo
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