Do you have a desk at work? To most of us the answer is yes. A question that is often sought after by those of us who do sit at a desk every day is, “How can I be more productive?” To answer this question, you need to get up and walk away.
Now obviously walking away from your desk isn’t going to make you more productive however it’s what you do away from your desk that can. Many people try caffeine, or other energy boosting supplements to increase productivity, however exercise may be your answer. Going to the gym isn’t all about getting a six pack abs or bulking up. Having an active lifestyle will also help to improve your brain power, which can result in you being more productive.
Anyone who works in the corporate world knows all too well of the stresses and anxiety that can come along with it. Those who don’t let stress get the best of them are usually the ones that perform the best in high stress corporate positions. Exercise is the one way that these types of people often overcome stress in the workplace.
Want to give your brain more cells? According the process of neurogenesis, the rate of which your brain cells grow will decrease as you get older. In 2008 a study showed as we age, brain cells of people who exercise on a regular basis have a higher brain growth rate. This means that those who choose to be more active throughout their lives are more productive in the workplace. In many cases brain cell growth for active individuals advances at a higher rate than those who don’t regularly exercise.
Exercising also leads to you having more energy. Most of your cells contain mitochondria, which are often referred to as the “powerhouse” of the cell. Mitochondria help to produce the energy that your body needs. As you exercise your body produces more mitochondria, which in turn leads to you having more energy. This additional energy will help you to be more focused, and therefore more productive.
So whether you are looking to have more energy or to be more productive, the answer is as simple as walking away from your desk. On your work breaks go for a short walk, do some steps or other simple exercises to help get your blood flowing. This will help to lead to a happier, healthier, more productive work day!
About the author: Autumn Edmiston is the CEO and owner of the Edmiston Group. The Edmiston Group is a multifaceted Pittsburgh based marketing consulting firm providing senior level marketing management services to businesses and non-profit organizations on a short or long term basis. Core areas of service are business development, marketing, strategic planning and public relations. The Edmiston Group has consistently delivered and implemented real-world, proven business marketing ideas and strategies for business growth.