6 Things that Can Improve Your
Mental Clarity at Work
Work has always held different meanings for people all over the world. For some, a job is a means to get by and support a family, while others live, breathe, and enjoy their job more than most.
Regardless of what work means to you, the fact is that you’re likely to spend much of your life there; with the average American spending over 90,000 hours over the course of their lifetime in work, it’s no wonder mental clarity can slip.
This not only has negative effects on your productivity, but your long-term mental health- something that is not to be taken lightly. Luckily, there are a few easy ways to keep your mental clarity sharp while also prioritizing your wellbeing.
#1 Drinking more water
It’s well-known among scientists and everyday people alike that drinking water does wonders for your health. From weight loss to glowing skin, it’s an essential part of your everyday routine. The problem is that not everyone reaches their recommended daily intake of water, meaning concentration and focus can slip.
This is not an ideal headspace to be in when you have deadlines looming. To replenish your brain, fill up your water bottle and take a few sips. To make sure you don’t miss out on the mental benefits of water, it helps to have a reusable bottle on your desk. This will act as a reminder to hydrate little and often.
#2 Taking regular breaks
One of the biggest misconceptions about working is that you must work as much as you can within a short space of time to be productive. Not only is this myth dangerously far from the truth, but it can in fact cause more stress- a key cause of poor mental clarity.
In fact, much research shows that taking breaks can increase productivity and work quality. If you have a busy work environment, split up your day with short breaks away from your computer desk. Maximize these breaks by going on walks in a green setting, eating a healthy meal, or catching up with your work friends. It doesn’t matter how you spend it, as long as you return to your desk feeling relaxed and restored.
#3 Getting more sleep
It is estimated that one in three Americans do not get enough sleep each night. Without the recommended 7 to 9 hours of restful sleep their body needs, the mind and body can suffer as a result. In the short-term, concentration can dip and stress can rise, while mental health problems like Depression and Anxiety have long been linked to lack of sleep.
Much of these sleep issues can be solved by creating a calm environment at home. This can mean investing in some black-out blinds, some essential oils, or an organic mattress for better sleep. The same rules don’t apply to everyone, but much of the positive benefits of sleep can truly be felt in the workplace.
#4 Eating nutritious snacks
Much of what we do to our bodies affects our minds, which is why many nutritionists and mental health experts suggest following a diet rich in nutrients, minerals, and healthy fats. Keeping yourself nourished on the inside can help keep your energy levels up throughout the day. While processed foods can lead to spikes and dips in energy, having healthy, slow-releasing foods to hand whenever you feel peckish is a great idea.
This will keep any cravings at bay, but will also supply your brain with all the fuel it needs to stay focused- even when you have a long, repetitive task to complete. When these kinds of snacks are interspersed with short bursts of exercise throughout the day, you can expect to see your usual brain fog lift in as little as a few minutes.
#5 Avoiding midday coffee
Watching what you eat can help with mental clarity at work, but it also comes down to what you drink. Coffee is one of the most popular hot drinks in the world, and many people consume it for the caffeine rush they feel can help them in the workplace.
Although having coffee sometimes can bring some health benefits to your life, this isn’t always the case.Consuming too much coffee may increase stress levels, cause high blood pressure, and make you more distracted at work. None of these issues are ideal, but it can be difficult to wean yourself off your usual afternoon coffee if you think you need it. Start by cutting down on how many cups you have each day or replacing coffee with green tea to make it more manageable.
#6 Meditating more
Meditation has become a buzzword in many workplaces of late. This ancient practice has stuck around for thousands of years- and for good reason. Promising to combat stress, keep minds clear, and improve sleep, it is no wonder so many companies are now championing it.
The best part is that you don’t need to be an expert to reap the benefits. Meditating can be as simple as taking a few minutes each morning to focus on your breathing and refine your personal goals. It may even be that you spend ten minutes every lunch break using it to center your thoughts. Combine with yoga or try a meditation app to make sure you and your workplace get the most out of it.