It's easy to get caught up in the stress of the work day. Here are ten tips for catching your breath and renewing your focus on the job.
Take a walk
Get a breath of fresh air. Walk to a different coffee shop than you normally do, or just go sit out on the grass for a few minutes and watch the world pass by. If that's not an option, stroll wherever your feet lead you — even if it's just to the conference room, or living room, and back.
Visit a friend
Sometimes I'll take a work break and visit some of my colleagues in a different department. Just connecting with people who aren't focused on the exact same things can help give me a little perspective — and a smile.
Stretch
This doesn't need to be a whole yoga regimen in your cubicle: just stand and reach for the ceiling, or touch your toes, or do a quick push-up if you don't mind putting on a bit of a show. Getting the blood circulating can do wonders for your mental health.
Read a book
Keep a novel at your desk, and when you need a break, set a timer. You can escape into another world for ten minutes, and come back refreshed.
Get a lava lamp
Your place of employment may or not permit you to have an actual lava lamp — but some kind of soothing little gadget can help remind you that the world doesn't begin and end on that spreadsheet.
Switch projects
If one project is stressing you out, give it a rest for a few minutes and turn your attention to a different project. You'll still be doing work, but the switch-up will help reset your attention span.
Have a tea
When you feel like you're about to lose it, a warm decaffeinated beverage can help soothe the savage beast you've become.
Change your scenery
Is there somewhere else you can sit? On a couch, maybe — or in an empty conference room? Just getting out of your usual spot can help you refocus.
Create some custom Slack emojis
If you're on Slack, you know what I'm talking about. If you're not...never mind.
Put on your headphones
May I draw your attention to the 24/7 stream of uninterrupted relaxing music by some of the world's greatest composers that's available at this great site called YourClassical?
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