Dear Reader,
Today is Labor Day here in the States, and I am celebrating by sharing a quick tip that will help you at work. This is a practice I use myself, and I love it. Ready?
Begin your work day with five minutes of daydreaming!
No, I do not mean simply spacing out. That would get your day off to a very unproductive start, wouldn’t it? Here’s what I mean by daydreaming, and how I do it:
First, get settled in your work space – you’ve got your cup of coffee, trips to the restroom are done, and any work implements (electronic devices, pen and paper, etc) are available but not open.
Next, allow your body to relax in your chair, not as if you are about to fall asleep, but as if you are about to listen to something intriguing. Let your vision soften and your gaze be lightly focused (ideally on something pleasant; I like to look out the window at the sky.)
Now, allow your mind to free up and open to your imagination. I start with the intention that I will only entertain creative and intuitive thinking during this time. Then allow your thoughts to drift across your mind, just like clouds across the blue sky.
It is important to release effort, and not to be directive in your thinking. Just let the thoughts flow. At the same time, it is important not to get sidetracked by worry, memories or planning, so each time those kinds of thoughts arise (you will recognize them, believe me!) simply choose to let them go. It may take a little practice at first, but you’ll get the hang of it pretty quickly.
Be open to your daydreaming gems – one of the important characteristics of creativity.
Be open to making seemingly unrelated connections – another one of the important characteristics of creativity.
Five minutes are plenty – and then move on with your morning!
If you got any amazing ideas during your five minutes, of course, write them down! Then I suggest moving on to a work activity that is more creative or involving higher order thinking, rather than a detail-oriented task.
Every time I use this approach, my whole work day is not only more creative, but more productive in general. I remain less stressed, and less pressured to be productive. My hope is that the technique works for you too, dear reader – try it and see!
I honor your loving heart,
John
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