As a small business owner I’m constantly feeling the need to GSD (get sh*t done).
If I’m not editing, I’m emailing. If I’m not emailing I’m marketing. If I’m not marketing, I’m shooting. If I’m not shooting, I’m researching my next project. So.Much.To.Do.
In the midst of all that hustle we can easily lose track of the things our minds desperately need to be engaged and effective.
And studies are showing that all of us need regular breaks to stay productive.
The Short:
Working in 90 minute intervals follows your body’s natural rhythms and we can be more productive by taking 20 minute breaks to allow our minds to breathe and recover.
You’ll feel this as your mind gets a little foggy, unable to concentrate, even feeling a little tired or run down.
The answer is to take a quick break from your work. Get away from your computer with a snack and fresh air to allow your brain downtime from concentration for about 20-30 minutes.
The Long:
Our bodies have cycles that last fewer than 24 hours called Ultradian Rhythms. One of those cycles is a 90 minute cycle called the Basic Rest Activity Cycle.
This cycle identifies high brain activity lasting around 90 minutes, followed by a lower level of activity, which last around 20 minutes. Basically, our brains require so much energy to function, it’s wired to ebb and flow it’s consumption to conserve appropriately.
To take this a step further, scientists believe that our cognitive function is a balance of sodium and potassium. So, if you’re looking for a good snack during your break, choose foods high in these nutrients.
This also reinforces the importance of drinking the hydration Solution we shared HERE.
But what if we power through the ‘give me a break’ signals?
Studies show we actually move into a state of fight or flight which impairs our decision making abilities and ultimately our performance.
So how does this all relate to photographers?
During the week, when we have office time, taking a 20 minute break every 90 minutes gives us the opportunity to be more productive. Especially when we have an editing backlog or are doing highly repetitive things. These breaks can also give our creative minds the space it needs to perform at even higher levels.
When we’re behind the camera and we may not have the opportunity to take breaks at the time we need them, it’s important we have snacks that are high in sodium and potassium to feed our brain and keep ourselves nourished for the entire day.
There we have it. All good reasons to give ourselves a little break every 90 minutes. Feel your body out and try to time this to your day and body.
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