Thursday, 7 October 2010

Just Take A Break!!

by Julie Barnes

Can taking a break really make you more productive? As an entrepreneur, you push yourself to the limit, trying to get that last to-do done. Sometimes, it can seem like it takes forever to finish one project, even though you refuse to take a break until it’s done. But what if I told you that by taking several breaks throughout the day, you can actually accomplish more.

Yes, it’s true!

According to Wikipedia, it’s estimated that, in adults, the human brain can only focus its attention on a chosen task for up to around 20 minutes maximum, before it needs a refresher.
So take a break! Go get your timer from the kitchen or download some cool timers online at http://www.online-stopwatch.com, http://www.vickiblackwell.com/timer.html, or http://timberfrog.com/countdown.

1. Turn off all distractions –
  • Email
  • Cell phone
  • Twitter
  • Facebook
2. Set your timer for 20 minutes.

3. Now focus in on the project at hand.

4. When the timer goes off, take a 5 minute break.
  • Take a walk
  • Grab a cup of coffee
  • Do some yoga
  • Turn on your favorite music and dance
  • Play with your pet
5. Repeat

Another great benefit of taking a short break – it allows your brain to formulate ideas and work through any creative blocks.

When was your last break?


Julie Barnes is the author is this post. Julie is excited to be living in Generation E – the age of the Entrepreneur. As a writer, she enjoys writing about all aspects of the entrepreneur journey. She enjoys interviewing entrepreneurs whose experience and wisdom can inspire others to follow their entrepreneurial dreams. Julie lives and works in the Kansas City suburb of Overland Park, KS with her husband Ron and lovable dog Hank. You can visit her site at http://www.julieabarnes.com . Follow Julie on Twitter at http://twitter.com/juliebarnesks. Become a Facebook friend at http://www.facebook.com/people/Julie-Barnes/1003024246 

Julie Barnes is a regular contributor to the Secrets of Success Blog.

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