We all know that feeling: the clock ticks closer and closer to 5 pm, and we still have so much left to do. The to-do list feels never-ending, and we can't help but wonder what happens if we just don't finish. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. In today's society, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of work and forget to make time for play. I mean honestly, who has time for anything these days?
But what if I told you that making time for play could actually increase your productivity? It may sound counterintuitive, but hear me out. When we take breaks to do things we enjoy, it helps us to re-energize and come back to our work with fresh eyes. Not only that, but play can also help us to come up with new ideas and solutions to problems we've been struggling with. Letting the mind wander actually allows it to process information in new ways, often subconsciously.
And it's not just me saying this - there's science to back it up. A study from the University of Colorado found that employees who took regular breaks were more productive than those who didn't. This is one of the most underrated benefits of having a flexible workday. Rarely do you have time in an office to play your piano, go on a bike ride or draw in your sketchbook. At home, it's much easier to set aside 20 minutes for yourself.
So if you're fortunate enough to have a flexible work schedule, start blocking out 20 minutes each day to distract yourself. Ideally mid-morning and mid-afternoon to break up your work blocks. Like anything else, it works best if you make it a habit, but allowing your mind to wander for a while might just help you think a bit clearer. Obviously here at Offsite, we highly recommend getting outside. A few minutes in the sun, water or woods can do wonders. That's why we've built our experiences around time outside - because there is no better way to get yourself in the zone that by putting yourself in nature.
While it's best done as part of your routine, it can also be a great way to destress. Next time you're feeling overwhelmed by your work, consider taking a break to play a game, take a walk outside, or simply step away from your desk for a few minutes.
It's easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget to make time for play, but that's what we're here for. Come stay in one of our cabins and see how the entire experience is built around giving you the space to become inspired. We believe work should be enjoyable, and that the place you do it matters just as much as what you do. So come and join us. It's not a retreat, it's an approach.