Integrate or Suffocate

Don't let multi-tasking rule your work day in today's already high-stress workplace where longer work weeks, fewer raises, and too few vacation days have become the norm. You owe it to yourself to find new ways to make your life both enjoyable and productive. You can learn to Integrate or Suffocate!

That dreaded phrase, multi-tasking, is translating into new responsibilities piled way too high upon way too many demanding deadlines for today's already overworked labor force. Multi-tasking does not allow you to focus on any one project because you're trying to do too much at once: talk on your cell phone, check email and look at reports while someone walking by waves because they want some time with you as well. It makes you want to pull your hair out!

If you can’t interject some enjoyment, you’re left with Suffocating, and you won’t want that. You can integrate enjoyable activities into your work routine, instead. It's a simple, but very effective way to better manage the hours in your day, stave off high stress, and achieve more focus and productivity.

Here are Nine Ways to Integrate vs. Suffocate

Take a walk outside the office or up and down the stairs to other floors (yes, you can read this as: exercise) while poring over assignments or proof reading completed work. Do discreet stretching exercises while on the phone with a client. Take the kids and a spouse or caretaker along on an out-of-town business trip,. Schedule a fun activity for them while you're working and meet them later for a fun dinner in a new place that each of you can enjoy.

Or, consider integrating an out-of-town meeting with a visit to an old friend who lives nearby. Spend a few extra minutes each morning just planning your day. Try spending a few extra minutes each morning incorporating fun "to do" activities with your "To Do" work list. Pick one night a week to schedule a fun activity with your friends, and keep one weekend day open just to regroup.

The point is this: if you intentionally set out to integrate any activity that is fun or healthy for you into your work day, you won't feel yourself getting stressed out about the mountain of work ahead of you. We know this pile will always be there, so weaving some enjoyment into these activities will have you looking forward to time you will spend proactively balancing your lifestyle with your work.