We are pieces of elastic!!! Consider how a piece of elastic performs. You apply pressure to it and it stretches and is at its most productive when it is stretched to its limit.
Similarly, we engage in a myriad of social and work related activities, which push us to our limit, whether it is running an 8mile, lifting weights in the gym, drinking at the bar till the wee hours of the morning, or the implementation of a project that will significantly increase the profitability of our organisations.
Unfortunately, the same stress that allows us to reach our ultimate productivity levels, if not monitored can lead to distress.
The elastic performs well for a period when stretched to its maximum capacity, then it enters into distress, becoming less and less productive, until it is of no use – think sagging underwear.
As leaders, we need to be conscious that if we do not take Time Out to rest, reflect, recharge and rejuvenate ourselves, we will take ourselves and our employees into the realm of “diminishing returns” – distress.
So for a moment, forget the sense of power and importance associated with being “busy”. Drop everything. Enter into one minute of silence during which you become fully conscious of your breathing. Just follow the breath in and out. At the end of the minute, how do you feel? It is an easy way of releasing stress during the course of the workday and reenergising ourselves.
For those of you who are more aware of the need for Time Out, in other words you are conscious of both your body and mind telling you that you need a break, I recommend Time Out ……. the intentional cessation of an incomplete task.
Join us for a Time Out Weekend… a period of rest, reflection and rejuvenation
Judy Joseph Mc Sween is the Principal Consultant/CEO of Meredith Mc Sween International – facilitating internal transformation in individuals, teams and organisations. Contact Judy for information on upcoming “Time Out Weekends” Email judy@meredithmcsween.com
are you ready for a time out? 