Seriously, Stop Working So Much
Overworking not only takes a toll on your productivity and success but also hampers your overall well-being. It may surprise you to learn that the more you push yourself beyond your limits, the slower and less efficient you become. Neglecting to prioritize rest and rejuvenation hinders your ability to accomplish more and has detrimental effects on your physical and mental health.
Our brains and bodies suffer when we constantly push ourselves to work longer hours and sacrifice our leisure time. Fatigue sets in, concentration wanes, and our creative thinking becomes stagnant. It’s as if we’re running on an empty tank, unable to refuel and perform optimally. Taking breaks, engaging in activities we enjoy, and allowing our minds to unwind is crucial for maintaining high levels of productivity and fostering innovative ideas.
Contrary to popular belief, success isn’t solely dependent on working non-stop. In fact, numerous studies have shown that those who prioritize work-life balance and take time for themselves actually achieve greater long-term success.
Howard Tinsley, PhD, an emeritus professor of psychology with Southern Illinois University, has studied the benefits of leisure since the 1970s. His immense research has taught us that vacationing releases two critical neurotransmitters: dopamine and serotonin. These “happy” neurotransmitters have the ability to increase focus, motivation, self-worth, enjoyment, and a host of other positive enhancers. Research has found that workers who take more vacation time consistently receive better scores on their end-of-the-year performance reviews.
The effect isn’t small, either; the boost is nearly a 10% increase! Compared to workers who didn’t take time off, the vacationers also tend to be happier with their jobs and stick around long-term. Americans work more hours and take less vacation than nearly 98% of other countries in the world. No wonder so many employees are stressed out and waning in their effectiveness.
If you aren’t taking time to get away, let me tell you bluntly, “Get Out!” That’s right. Get out of the office, the projects, the tasks, and go somewhere that will refresh you. And no, I am not just talking about going home or to your local hot spot; I am also talking about getting away to somewhere new that is detached from familiarity.
Each year I have made it a habit to rent a cabin for a few nights all by myself to refresh and gain clarity from the busyness of my schedule and responsibilities. It was hard at first to leave my wife and kids to get away alone. But the payoff has been incredible. I now look forward to my retreat each year because it rejuvenates me and allows me to gain perspective.
Every few months, we should be getting away, even if it is for a night. You may not “feel like you need it,” but don’t wait to “feel like you need it,” or it will be harder to refresh, and it will take much longer than a short trip to recover. The reason you “feel like you need it” is because you’ve waited too long to do it.
Be proactive about refreshing your energy by systematically getting away.
Check out this episode I did on The John Barrett Leadership Podcast, How To Rest To Be Your Best
