The Management Tip of the Day from Harvard Business Review

 

January 9, 2014 Use Your Commute to Practice Mindfulness Practicing mindfulness, which is all about being in the present moment., can boost creativity, lower stress, and improve concentration. But people miss out because they think they’re too busy to meditate. Consider using your daily commute to practice mindfulness. When you get in the car, take a few deep breaths. Buckle up and become aware of your body. Feel your hands on the steering wheel and your foot on the pedal. As you drive, notice what you are looking at: the road, your windshield, your mirrors. Notice the sounds you hear. Avoid sinking into autopilot. This sounds basic, but concentrating isn’t easy. Our minds wander and we’re tempted to check our phones. Brush these distractions aside and focus on making the most of your time in the car, on a train, or however you travel. You’ll arrive at the office refreshed and ready for the day, and you’ll get home ready to enjoy the evening. Adapted from “Your Car Commute Is a Chance to Practice Mindfulness” by Maria Gonzalez.

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