Ever felt like you want to lock yourself in the ladies’ room but when you’re in there, it’s even harder to breathe? Work can cause a lot of anxiety, especially if you have a perennially increasing workload.
It causes anxiety which, in turn, prevents you from focusing and getting the work done. So, how does one unwind and escape this vicious cycle in a way that excludes copious amounts of coffee and donuts?
Mindfulness is your meditative miracle that transforms the way you focus at work.
Mindfulness FAQs
What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness is the ability to be consciously present in the moment and experience it more intensely.
Is being mindful useful in the workplace?
Mindfulness can help increase your creativity and keep your mind away from distractions, making you more productive.
Is it difficult to develop a mindful approach?
If you have guidelines you can follow, all it takes is some practice and a bit of self-discipline. The results will pleasantly surprise you.
8 Ways Mindfulness Can Improve Your Focus at Work
1. Start Your Day With Mindful Intent
Using an affirmation as a tool for mindful meditation is a great way to start your day right.
No matter how groggy or stressed you’re feeling, take five to ten minutes, sit cross-legged on your bed or stand in front of your mirror, and repeat an affirmation relating to something you want to achieve that day.
While you are doing this, don’t allow your mind to wander; focus wholly and completely on your mantra.
What do you need to hear from yourself? It can be general or specific. Try a mantra like “I have the power in me to take on this day.”
2. Slowing Down Will Speed You Up
When we mindfully and consciously just ‘be’ in each moment, it may feel like things are slowing down.
However, if you experience this feeling, you just need to apply focus to speed things up again. Being conscious and in the moment lays a foundation for the ultimate level of focus.
Thus, if you are new to mindfulness, getting into this state may feel like it slows you down, but once you’re in it and you apply yourself to what you are doing by being present in each small action you take, you get things done in no time.
4. Proactivity and Prioritizing
Proactivity is related to identifying future issues, but if you are proactive in your approach to work, it helps you to ease into an easy mindful focus as you are aware of your circumstances and you are prepared for possible obstacles.
One way of being proactive is by prioritizing. To give yourself peace of mind, compile a priority list for each day.
5. Rid Your Environment of Distractions
Being mindful while working boosts your focus, so increase the effectiveness by getting rid of unnecessary distractions.
Place your phone in your desk drawer or bag, and switch off all notifications. Allow yourself to check your phone only at certain times.
Close all tabs on your PC that are not directly related to the work you’re doing, like social media pages.
6. Lost Your Focus? Stop. Breathe. Write.
Did something throw you off track while you were focusing?
Maybe you received a stressful message from your boss or someone came to interrupt you while working.
Don’t be frustrated—breathe, take your pen, and write a paragraph or two to get rid of unwanted emotions. Reflect, and start shifting into your mindful space again.
7. Be Consciously Present When Working
Be selfish about the space you apply your mindful presence to when working. Keep it small and specifically focused on what you are doing.
Focus on staying consciously present in this small space, and you’ll find it easier to complete your work in a shorter amount of time.
8. Swap Anxiety for Gratitude
Do you know all those things that make you anxious? Turn them on their head and show them how little influence they have over you and your ability to do your work.
Identify moments where you can experience gratitude during your work time. This inspires your mindful approach and cultivates a healthy attitude.
Final Thoughts
After spending your day actively and mindfully being present in each moment while completing your work, be just as mindful while you unwind after work.
Allow yourself to experience a feeling of deep satisfaction and relaxation that your efforts to focus have brought you.
Experience gratitude and a sense of accomplishment rounding off a productive and successful day. Cheers!
