Designers, particularly freelancers, wear many hats. Isn’t that so exciting?….Sure, but the reality is that it’s tiring and impacts your health. Isn’t that always how people say it goes, when your life is suffering, you’re doing well at work, and vice versa?
Well, there few tips that I found help me while I find myself on the edge of the cliff with stress. Managing work, life and family is a struggle.
Here are a few things to keep in mind to stay on top of your game, keep your energy levels high and remain productive:
1. Take a minute to breathe.
If you’re like most hard-working humans, you rarely take time to focus on nothing but breathing deeply.
That’s unfortunate because breathing exercises can stimulate your mind and body into a state of relaxation and recovery.
2. Set a balanced sleep schedule.
I’m sure you know that if you get better sleep, you’ll be more rested and will work more effectively.
It is very easy to let time slip away and suddenly you’re working into the wee hours of the night…….or morning.
Research has shown that if you maintain a consistent sleep schedule, then you will not only be more energetic throughout the day, you’ll actually sleep better.
Give your body the rest it needs.
3. Work in a healthy environment.
Are you slumped over on your couch with your laptop and a bag of Doritos nearby? Yeaaaa…. that’s probably not the best work environment.
Set up a work environment with good lighting and a nice desk chair that supports your back. Make sure you put yourself in a position to do good work for the entire day.
4. Work based on energy, not time.
Time is a standard. We can’t speed it up or slow it down. But energy can be managed.
You should typically work for about 90 minutes and then take a break. Then go for 90 more minutes and take another break. This block-scheduling will help maintain your energy throughout the day.
Source: http://www.freelanceswitch.com
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