Branding decisions can be time-consuming and stressful. For 20 years, our job has been to make yours easier, Calmly Adding Colour To Your Event. Whether or not you are working on an upcoming branding project, here are 5 general stress-management tips and techniques that might help you with your general working and home life.
1. Be a single tasker. ‘Multitasking’ may be a tempting idea in theory, particularly when you are faced with a long to-do list. Unfortunately, the human brain is not capable of performing two tasks that require high-level brain function at once. In fact, despite feeling more productive, the act of switching gears is more mentally exhaustive than focusing on the task at hand.
2. Switching off before bed. There is widespread and compelling evidence that highlights the importance of high-quality sleep. The blue light emitted by screens on mobile phones, computers and televisions restrict the production of melatonin, the hormone which regulates the sleep/wake cycle. By avoiding screens for 30-60 minutes before bed, you should notice improvements in the quality of your sleep and feel more productive as a result.
3. Take notes. To-do lists, meeting minutes and brain-storms. Taking notes by hand means you must engage with information in order to summarise it, and documenting your tasks allows you to prioritise effectively.
4. Get active. Increasing your heart-rate through exercise pumps more oxygen to the brain, aiding the release of hormones which stimulates the growth of brain cells. The NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity. Examples of moderate-intensity activity include brisk walking and riding a bike. Examples of vigorous-intensity activity include running, fast swimming and skipping. Memory, focus and mood are all improved by regular exercise.
5. 15 minute controlled breathing sessions. Meditation can be a daunting word for a lot of people, conjuring images of enlightened Monks devoting years to the practice. In reality, dedicating just 15 minutes of your day to quietly focus on your breathing allows your mind to re-set, improving your productivity for the day ahead. Slow down to speed up.
