Early in my career, I lived in Venezuela. It was a wonderful experience, and at the end of my two year stint, I felt like a native. During that time period, the entire infrastructure shut down for two hours in the middle of the day for a break they called "siesta". All government offices, banks, and most other businesses observed this practice. Most people went home and had the biggest meal of the day and rested up for the afternoon. I enjoyed the time and regularly took a nap.
Break Time
That habit stuck with me and I often find myself stepping away from the action each day to renew my energy. I can't take two hours, but I can take twenty minutes. I often just lay down on the ground and close my eyes. In some instances, I have even asked my client if there is a quiet place to take this break – I even tell them why I want to get away. I always feel refreshed when I awake and ready to make the afternoon as productive as the morning.
I find that I get more done when I take this break. When I am unable to do it, I feel the fatigue of the morning and so I pass the afternoon yawning and shaking myself to stay focused.
Stepping Away
I can't always find a spot to take this power nap, so when there is no place to lay down, I walk around. No matter where I am at, there is always some beautiful garden, fountain or peaceful area where I can just walk and clear my head.
When I was working in Mexico City, the entire workforce would exit the building after lunch and walk around a beautiful garden. Some would walk in groups, some in pairs and some would even just walk by themselves. It was a practice that very few missed.
We need these breaks. They energize us and enliven our beings. They allow us the space to recalibrate our minds so that we can take more in, and get more done.
Do you have a rest ritual that you regularly follow?
As a leader, do you create the space for those around you to "step out" for a few minutes?
I encourage you to take this time. If you are lacking this ritual because your schedule is too full, or because you are on the road, clear some space. We all recognize the need to create balance between our work and private lives, but only a few are willing to stand up and really do it. This is a simple thing that each one of us can do. Don't get caught in the rush of the day – take a break on me and tell them you are doing it under Dr.'s orders.
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