Can you achieve more by doing less?

The eternal quest to achieve perfect work-life balance. We all know it. We all want it. None of us ever seem to get it. But maybe, just maybe, that’s not the point.

What if merely trying is?

We all have a tendency to throw ourselves into our work – time out to do the things we love slides further and further down the list as the real world demands that you ‘live your business’.

On the other hand, we all know that a more rested mind is a more productive mind – psychological studies have proven it time and again. And it stands to reason that more well-rounded individuals with a good social network are more resilient to the obstacles life throws our way.

The rub lies in how to (realistically) fit it into the busy schedule that is modern life.

However, taking a step back to give yourself some ‘me time’ can do a world of good. Here are a few tips and suggestions on how to charge those batteries.

Let it go

The first step to reclaiming your life – and maybe even growing your business – is to let others help. We’re all guilty of ‘de-delegating’, asking a team member to complete a task and then doing it ourselves ‘because it’s easier’, but trusting your team to look after things while you take time to focus on yourself is the only way to successfully build your business. Ask yourself if you really need to be doing repetitive tasks and try focusing your workload down to the essentials. If you don’t have a team, you might be surprised how many apps and cloud software solutions can help you move tedious admin work off your desk.

Face to face

Social media is a blessing and bane. It both widens and shrinks our world. Remember to take time each week to reconnect with those nearest and dearest in person, perhaps through hobbies, sport or just over a coffee. And make sure all phones are out of the way (first one to pick theirs up also picks up the tab!).

Just do it

An iconic line with a great deal of truth to it. However daunting the idea of a new exercise regime may be, moving your body can be one of the best ways to turn the mind off. It boosts moods, trims waists and helps you sleep better. Just 15 minutes a day can do wonders!

Silence the mind

Speaking of wonders – ever tried meditation? Think of it like defragging the hard drive of your brain. Meditation doesn’t mean chanting monotonously in some far-flung monastery somewhere; just five minutes (mid-commute even) of closing your eyes and focusing on your breathing will do. Let all other thoughts slip away and feel your breath. You’ll be amazed how focused you are after.

The modern world is packed with things that demand our time and energy, and it can be all too easy to get swept away. The next time you’re feeling daunted while planning your day, try to remember, time you enjoy wasting is never wasted time