mind management

 APRIL 5, 2013 Friday 

Quickly Quiet Your Mind

A clear head produces the best insights. But it's a challenge to take time off in the midst of a busy day to rest your brain. Here are three easy ways to build breaks into your day:

(1) Meditate on your commute. 

If you use public transportation, take the time to close your eyes for 10 minutes. If you drive, leave a little early, park, and spend 10 minutes in the car before going into work.

(2) Regularly take breaks.

 Focus on work in spurts. Set a timer for 90 minutes. When it goes off, take five minutes to go for a walk, talk to a colleague, doodle, or listen to music. Even if you don't think you need the break, take it.

(3) Take daydream walks. 

Two days a week during your lunch break, take a stroll for 20 minutes. Think about anything besides work — a beach vacation, building your dream house, whatever.

Harvard Business Review Blog Today's Management Tip was adapted from "Quick and Easy Ways to Quiet Your Mind" by Matthew E. May.