Simple steps that can make a mid-day routine boost productivity and well-being.
Let’s face it, in our society today, everything is getting back to being fast-paced. However, in a different way than pre-COVID. AI and advances in technology are making us move faster online and in life than ever before. With this, finding balance can sometimes feel daunting and out of reach. Whether we work full-time, part-time, are a stay-at-home parent, or otherwise, we still all have deadlines to meet, meetings to attend, and endless notifications can leave us feeling drained by mid-day. Yet this is where the mid-day reset comes in. Spending a few intentional moments for a mid-day reset can make all the difference in how we manage our work and well-being.
Why does Mid-day matter?
Mid-day is often a more stressful part of the day, we begin to feel drained, possibly hungry – leading to lowered blood sugar – and mental fatigue sets in. This makes it harder to focus and stay productive. Hence, stress levels are at their highest, as you still have the rest of the day to complete.
Giving yourself a mid-day reset is a practical way to break up the day, clear your mind, and refocus your energy towards your priorities. It is not about taking a long break, although you can; it is about taking a few minutes to really check in with yourself and ask how am I feeling, do some deep breathing, or journaling, in a manner that is mindful and intentional, with a short pause that refreshes your body and mind.
How to build a mid-day reset
It is not complicated; in a practical sense, a mid-day reset can be done anywhere.
Here are a few simple strategies to try:
- Step Away from Your Desk or Workspace: Walk around, stretch, go outside, and make a change of scenery for a few minutes. This can help to reduce stress and physical tension.
- Practice Mindfulness: Try a brief breathing exercise or meditation. Even just a few deep breaths can help reduce stress and bring clarity to your thoughts. Try the box breathing exercise – in for 4, hold for 4, out for 4, and repeat.
- Refuel: Make time for a healthy snack or glass of water. Healthy food will make you feel better, keep up energy levels, and help you keep going the rest of the day.
- Refocus and review the rest of the day: Take a moment to check your task list and prioritize what truly needs your attention for the rest of the day. This can help you avoid feeling overwhelmed and keep you on track.
Career Benefits of a Mid-day Reset
When you start doing a mid-day reset each day, you are investing in your well-being. Regular breaks can boost creativity, improve concentration, and reduce the risk of burnout. By permitting yourself to pause, you can return to your work feeling rejuvenated and more capable of handling the demands of your role.
Jennifer Bouley is a Career Development Practitioner located in St Stephen. She has a passion for helping others find wellness in their careers, while finding fulfilling jobs. Jennifer can be reached at blissplusyou@gmail.com.
