On the Job by Anita Bruzzese The Key to Feeling Less Overwhelmed

On the Job by Anita Bruzzese The Key to Feeling Less Overwhelmed One of the solutions being touted more and more as a solution to the emotional and physical overload many of us experience is mindfulness. Butis mindfulness the answer? Or is it just the latest fad that you dont have the time or inclination to try? Scott Eblin, an executive coach and speaker, says he understands the skepticism many feel when theyre told they will be happier and less stressed if theyre more mindful in their lives. But as someone who has practiced mindfulness for 20 years and credits it with saving his life after he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, Eblin believes that mindfulness can help anyone improve their quality of life. Most people are very happy to learn that mindfulness is not nearly as complicated as they thought. You dont have to meditate all day or do yoga every day, he says. Eblin says the need for mindfulness is greater than ever, as the declining economy several years ago put more pressure on workers to take on more work and do it with lessresources. We still seem to be in that crisis mode, even though things have improved, Eblin says. And whatever boundaries weve had have been erased by the smartphone. Enough, already Lets say your day started with your daughter forgetting her science project for school, forcing you to turn around and go get it. This caused you to be late to work and an important meeting, ticking off the boss. By 10 a.m. you had 200 emails in your inbox and three more meetings to attend. If such a scenario sounds familiar, Eblin says the first thing you need to do is breathe. In his book, Overworked and Overwhelmed, Eblin points out that there is scientific evidence that breathing deep from your belly can alleviate your stress and help you become more focused. Thats why he calls breathing the killer appof mental routines. Focusing on your breathing, Eblin explains, is the simplest form of mindfulness. If a thought crosses your mind while focusing on your breathing (I have to answer 200 emails!) just acknowledge that thought and let it go while you again refocus on your breathing, he explains. Think of it like doing reps at a gym, he explains. Within reason, the more you do, the stronger you get.Mindfulbreathing is like a workout for your brain. In the book, Eblin offers several ways that you can use mental routines to overcome various sources of stress andbecome more productivewith your thinking. He suggests you: Focus on learning.Dont let your thought processes get caught up in remorse or regret formistakes youve made, or things you could have done differently. No one is perfect, and you will make mistakes and have regrets. Instead, ask yourself questions about what was supposed to happen, what actually happened and (read more here)