What is mindful productivity and how it helps reduce work stress

Productivity is not about performing tasks non-stop or working 24/7; in fact, trying to do something like this generates great physical and psychological wear and tear and is unsustainable in the medium and long term.

In this article we explain everything you need to know about mindful productivity and how it can help you reduce stress.

• Related article: "Psychology of work and organizations: a profession with a future"

What is Conscious Productivity?

During the last decade, the idea of ​​being more productive people has become popular around the world. Nevertheless... What is really being a productive person? How do attempts to boost productivity impact health?

Thanks to productivity, progress is made towards the conquest of new achievements (personal and professional); Now, some "gurus" even invite you to sleep less, eat faster, work more and take fewer breaks, all in order to be more productive people.

Over time, different studies have confirmed that This traditional style of productivity can increase burnout levels in people and teams, create sleep problems and reduce quality of life..

• You may be interested in: "The differences between effectiveness and efficiency (with examples)"

The most important resource when faced with the need for productivity

Did you come to think of time as the most important resource? It is normal for it to be this way; By today's culture we come to understand time as the indispensable tool to achieve goals and objectives, but... Have you ever wondered if you have real control of time? Or can i pause or change it?

Time is a resource that helps advance the different calendars that exist in the world; However, there is a resource that is even more important for your productivity and that is... your energy. You can also know it as the mood or motivation you have to do things. It works in a very similar way to the batteries in your phone or computer.

By using all the energy, you need to recharge it. On the other hand, if you use your battery without disconnecting it from the power, it may affect the general operation. Something very similar happens with your energy.

If you are looking to accomplish as many tasks as possible without taking a break or rest, do so can increase the chances of increased stress and health problemsOn the other hand, if you don't use your energy, that can impact your emotional health. A balance is needed between the four aspects of your energy: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.

• Related article: "Work stress: causes, and how to combat it"

A new definition of productivity

Traditional productivity can be defined as the result that is achieved in a given time. Here time is the protagonist, although we know that we do not have complete control over it.

By placing energy as the most important resource, to move towards conscious productivity we can define productivity as the conscious decision to use one's own energy for a present purpose that is aligned with life's values, goals, and purposes.

• You may be interested in: "The 10 types of values: principles that govern our lives"

Daily habits to move towards conscious productivity

Moving towards conscious productivity is a process; it takes time to adapt to a new style of work. However, the most important thing is that you can start with small daily habits in order to increase your productivity without negatively affecting your health, your well-being and your peace of mind.

1. Rest intervals

During the working day, it is essential to have frequent breaks, of short or medium duration. A pause refers to any action that helps change your posture and focus for a few minutes.

It shouldn't be a long time, starting with 5 minute breaks for every 45 minutes will make a difference.

A useful tool in this regard is the pomodoro technique.. It consists of dedicating yourself to conscious work for 25 minutes followed by active 5-minute breaks.

To fully enjoy the rest intervals we also recommend learn to meditate. It is a very simple practice to do, and the results on an emotional, physical and mental level are very profound.

• Related article: "How to manage negative emotions: 9 tips"

2. Improve rest hours

Having a good rest is the basis for increasing well-being. Sacrificing time to sleep to try to increase productivity is counterproductive, in the long term it can increase the risk of diseases.

To make progress in this regard, create a bedtime routine. An hour before your average rest time, create a space with low light, soothing smells, and sounds that help you get a deep rest.

• You may be interested in: "Types of motivation: the 8 motivational sources"

3. Practice meditation and exercise mindfulness

Meditation is the practice of bringing attention to the breath; seek to connect in the present.

Different studies show that meditating regularly has several benefits, such as reducing stress.

As a useful tool you can use Pura Mente app, a resource to start meditating in a simple and easy way. There you will find more than 200 sessions focused on reducing stress, increasing focus and improving rest. You can download it on Android at this link or in this other for iOS.

4. Exercise and movement

Exercise helps stimulate the production of hormones such as dopamine, serotonin, endorphin, or enkephalin, which are related to the feeling of happiness and well-being. Exercising for a few minutes a day will help increase your productivity and motivation.

It doesn't take long to get started, start with 15 minutes of walking every day. No distractions.

In case you do not have much time to exercise, it is key that you can take active breaks (as we mentioned above). Maintaining the same posture or frequent video calls can cause mental fatigue that can be partially offset by physical activity.

5. Hydration and good nutrition

The body is 70% water. Drinking water frequently during the day and having a balanced diet and applied calmly day to day is a fundamental pillar to increase well-being and conscious productivity. It is recommended that at each active break you drink a glass of water.

Conclusions

Productivity also changes over time and this new era has as its central axis the vital energy of each person.

Furthermore, energy is the most valuable resource in the productivity of the modern world. It seeks to achieve a total commitment to the present.

On the other hand, rest is a fundamental pillar, not only for productivity but also for well-being.

Remember that productivity is not equal to stress. With different habits, it can be reduced on a day-to-day basis.

We hope these tips can help you increase your conscious productivity and reduce daily stress. We are waiting for you in Pura Mente app, where you can find more than 200 sessions focused on increasing your well-being, improving rest and reducing stress.