To Get More Done at Work, Slow Down

I had read this article a few months ago but it slipped my mind. Stumbled upon it again while searching for something else. This is so very true for all of us. Many a times, we go through our movements so fast that we don’t even know what we are doing. “If you want to do anything challenging and sustain it over a long period of time. A few moderate days, one hard day, and a day or two of complete rest.” – Sounds absolutely compelling.

http://www.businessweek.com/managing/content/aug2009/ca20090818_229017.htm

Here is the gist of the article - “This life is a marathon, not a sprint. Most of us don't go to work for 20 minutes a day, run as fast as we can, and then rest until the next race, so we need to rethink our approach “

On the same note let me talk about “Hurry Sickness”. “Type A” individuals as defined by Friedman and Rosenman (Though their theory is criticized for several reasons) have "hurry sickness." Type A persons’ lives are oriented around goals, deadlines, and objectives, which they seem to react to in a driven fashion. They are unable to approach a task in a healthy, balanced way, but in extreme cases seem almost consumed by a need to accomplish and achieve. Here are a few typical symptoms of  hurry sickness which made me burst with laughter (Because I have quite a few of them and am ashamed of it)  :

I rush to be first in line, even when it doesn't matter (for example, getting off an airplane first in order to stand at Baggage Claim longer).

If I have to wait over a few minutes for service in a store or restaurant, I get impatient and leave or demand service. To me time is money!

I generally view as less capable those who may be slower to speak act or decide. I admire people who move at my speedy pace! I pride myself on my speed, efficiency, and punctuality.

I view "hanging out" as a waste of time.

I pride myself on getting things done on time, and will sacrifice the chance to improve a product if it means being late.

I often rush or hurry my children and/or spouse.

Spirituality is one definite cure for the hurry sickness. It makes you slow down and watch yourself as you run. Here’s an article that talks about dealing with hurry sickness.

http://www.spiritualityandpractice.com/practices/features.php?id=16794 

 

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