Last weekend my daughter-in-law, grandson, and I went to Oregon for a quick getaway. Just to see some history, have bonding time, and check out the fall colors.
Little did I know my grandson would be reminding me of some life lessons I haven’t been practicing lately.
Why is it that when something works really well, we get excited about the results but gradually stop doing the thing that worked – then we wonder why our results changed! It happens at work and at home.
Well, the little man gave me some reminders this weekend and I knew I needed to share!
Lesson #1 – Time Block
At 17 months old, he is Mr. Happy when he is rested, fed, and entertained. That meant we had to Time Block our day.
Food at 8, 12, and 6, nap from 1-3, and bedtime at 8… fun at all other times!!
There was plenty of time to be spontaneous in between but it was critical to be on time with those time blocks to make the rest of the day go smoothly.
Exactly what our days should always look like! The critical tasks first, the top priorities. Maybe that is exercise, family time, or even a nap for you. At work, it might be time to complete your to-do list or process emails.
Clients often say, “I didn’t have time to….. eat, work out, rest….” If that is the key to creating your best day – block the time and stick to it!
A benefit of Time Blocking is that you will actually be more productive!
Lesson #2 – Slow Down, Enjoy
With a toddler, our exploring time was at a much slower pace than I am used to. He showed us the colors of fallen leaves, paused to watch the bubbling creek, picked up every rock, and said “hi” to each smiling person we met.
As adults, we are always in a hurry. And, when we are not, we are buried in our cell phones, listening to a ted-talk, or you-tubing a “how-to” video.
Time to slow down, pause, and notice the details.
When we do this at work, we can see things like what motivates our team, the hard work of the landscapers, and even the extra details put into key assignments.
Experts tell us that slowing down reduces stress, enhances focus, and boosts creativity. It also leads to better decision-making, improved memory, and increased emotional regulation.
It feels good to slow down, appreciate, and enjoy the little things in our life.
Lesson #3 – Dance!
Now this is my favorite lesson – DANCE! Yes, dance.
For you, it might be singing, yoga, or even boxing. My grandson had a tiny boom box going with his favorite tunes all the time. Singing, laughing, and dancing.
A little brain science – when you sing and dance you are using regions of your brain for audio processing, motor coordination, emotion, memory, AND creativity. Simply put-it positively boosts your mental and emotional attitude through your entire brain.
Try it-Double dog dare you! Turn off the podcast for just a few minutes. Open Pandora or Spotify, pick your favorite station, and turn up the volume!
It only takes a few minutes and you will feel it – your mind starts to kick in and your energy rises.
So, Dance!
What might happen if you follow his example? Try one this week – you pick!
- Time Block
- Slow Down, Enjoy
- Dance!
What can it hurt – what can it help? Let me know what happens! I can’t wait to hear.
If you are frustrated because you know you should make a few changes but are just not sure how to do it, book a call, and let’s chat about how I might be able to help you.
PS – If you need travel tips for Salem, Oregon let me know!
