At this time of year we all think about going to the gym...in January, to get into shape and finally become the athletic masterpiece that we have all dreamed about. Well there is one other part of your body that needs attention and needs a fitness workout throughout the year...your brain, your mind. This is such an important part of realising your potential and here are my tips for improving your mind fitness
M = Make time to reflect, to think, to dream...you need to plan time in your hectic schedule when you jump off your corporate hamster wheel and think about what you are trying to achieve and how you are progressing. If you leave this to chance it won't happen, book time in the diary NOW.
U= Understand the need for work/life balance and a healthy sleep pattern. Your brain needs it's rest to work at it's optimum. At the end of each day relax - see it as a mind "warm down". Whatever relaxes you, make sure you build it into your evening. No blogging, working, blackberries etc before bed!
S= See life. This sounds strange but when you are walking around, travelling...look at life, celebrate its beauty, don't just glance but look at the beauty and see the good in the world. I write down what makes an impact on me during a day, and then think about why...was it the colour, the shape, the service....and then think about how you can use that technique into your role.
C= Children. Children are a great source of creativity, putting up a mirror up to yourself, and you can learn so much from their questioning. Listen and watch their inquisitive mind, and follow their lead. Write down what is bothering you and keep asking why until you find the true answer not the sympton. Draw, play, sing, whatever feels right for you but leave allow your childlike imagination to have play time...
L= Learn a new skill..no matter what it is...be it cooking, rss, design, guitar, italian, ... keep your mind stretched, keep it interested, keep it open to learning.Learning needs practice, the more you do the better you get, and the faster you release your potential.
E= Explore the podcasting directory. Subscribe to 5 podcasts which are not in your comfort zone, or you normal development areas. Explore other areas, listen with an open mind of how you can take what they are talking about, tweak and bring something fresh to your work.
