Do you remember my late April Weekend Poll on peak productivity?
That’s the poll where, for the second consecutive year, I asked readers whether their productivity is consistent throughout the day. As you saw in the results of that poll, more than 60% of respondents say that’s not the case. In fact, almost half the people who participated identified themselves as being at their most productive in the morning, with mid-day not far behind.
How to recharge when you feel energy and productivity flagging?
Readers mentioned going for a walk more frequently than any other option. Also high on the list? Reading articles or checking personal email were also mentioned, as was securing a change of scenery.
Why not also try a brain break for a change of scenery?
That’s right; a brief and electronic brain break. How so? Well, over the last couple of months, I’ve begun building on what was a very meagre collection of videos from my travels. Much like my Real Careers series, these Real Moments reflect the world around us. If you’re in the midst of a demanding day, they’re a means of taking a brief break to recharge and refresh.
When I visited Kelowna last week to catch up with old friends, I described the purpose behind these videos and one friend – Linda – grasped the intent right away. “Oh, you’re talking about brain breaks!” I always knew Linda was smart … and so I’m happy to introduce Real Moments’ Brain Breaks. Many of them are nature inspired and, as time goes on, I’ll have more from my travels. These are short and sweet; most last no longer than a minute.
Here are some starters. If you like these, I’ll be happy to share more next week. If you’d like to also subscribe to my YouTube channel, you can do so by clicking here.
Busy as a Bee at the Johnson’s Blue Cranesbill Geraniums: If you feel like this bee, moving from one task to the next without pause, you really could use a short break!
Out to the Pacific: Be prepared for the sound of the wind kicking up – turn your volume down or off, and enjoy one of my favourite beaches.
Baby Ducklings: These little ones are well taught.
Let’s Go Fly a Kite: … and remember what it’s like to be a kid on the beach. The backdrop? Beautiful Vancouver, with Stanley Park and the North Shore mountains to show you why people love living here.
Paseo del Prado, Havana: Outside Havana’s Hotel Ingelterra, this was quite the sight – a full fledged orchestra performing while vintage cars and tour buses rolled past the architectural treats. Rather than fight the crowd to watch the musicians, I slipped in behind the percussion section. As you may suspect, this is not a quiet scene!
Down by the Pond: Let’s close with a bit more of a zen moment … although I will say that the reflections of mixed colours, and the general setting, make me think of Lewis Carroll and his works.
