Mindfulness Matters in the Workplace

The mind is a powerful asset, and like any other organ it needs equal rest and stimulation. It’s become obvious that our workplaces are increasingly stressful with longer work hours, high pressure deadlines and increased workloads. It begs the question, how do we give our brain a rest while at work?

Mindfulness is an antidote and is slowly becoming more mainstream in the workplace.

So what exactly is mindfulness? In my research, mindfulness is basically a form of mediation and acceptance. It’s the practice of being in the present moment and deliberately paying attention to your thoughts, feelings and sensations without judgement. I personally found the challenging part is letting go of the thoughts, the non-judgement and staying with it despite my discomfort. The benefit outweighs the discomfort because I am more calm, clear and able to handle what’s in front of me.

In fact, last year Harvard Business Review revealed that people who meditate show more activity in their anterior cingulate cortex which regulates impulsive behavior and distraction.  See article on Mindfulness here.