For me there are few things more stifling than the after lunch lull. For some reason creativity often comes to a stop after an intake of carbs. I just get stuck and stop challenging myself when the caffeine from the morning’s coffee runs out. The after lunch lull isn’t just in my head though, it is a pretty common downfall for all of us.
Part of the problem is that our workdays often look like this: Wake up. Drive to work. Do some work. Click the mouse 1,000 times. Drive home. Repeat.
No wonder we are falling asleep! When we get too ingrained in routine our work becomes dry and robotic. It may still get done, but it is about as monotone as the teacher from the Peanuts cartoons.
In moments like these I have found that one of the best ways to get out of robot mode is to break routine and engage the senses. It doesn’t have to be a major shift. Doing something out of the norm for just five minutes engages the brain and helps bring a fresh perspective to the table.
My best ideas never come after hours sitting in front of the computer. They happen at random times when I’m not thinking too hard. Taking quick breaks is a great way to get to breakthrough moments.
Not sure how to start? Here are a few of my personal favorites:
- Grab a timer, a piece of paper, a pencil, and maybe some scissors or crayons. Set the timer for 5 minutes and see what you can come up with.
- Dance party. Your body will thank you and maybe you can get your co workers to join in.
- Go outside. Take a quick walk around the block/building. Focus on what you are doing in the moment – not what you left on your desk.
So today instead of wearing yourself thin, don’t be afraid to have a dance party, creative moment, or just clear your head and remember…
“The really idle man gets nowhere. The perpetually busy man does not get much further.” – Sir Heneage Ogilvie