Entrepreneurs, startup founders, and technology-forward employees are glorified for their dedication to the craft. Praise is handed down for their blood, sweat, tears, and time. A common statement is something like this: “You worked 100 hours last week? You must really believe in what you’re doing.” Yet, that goes against everything science knows about not only happiness but productivity. A 100-hour work week will not create a better product or service all it will achieve is burn out.
Everything in Moderation
Entrepreneurs have a fire, a passion, a vision that pushes them forward. Sometimes it becomes an obsession and, as the old saying goes, everything in moderation (yes, even business). I firmly believe our best thoughts come when we are most open. And to be open we can’t be putting 70+ hours of work on our minds.
Instead of stressing our minds with more work, we need to focus on the most productive work and give our minds a break. If you’ve noticed, over the past two weekends I haven’t written blog posts. That’s been intentional as I’m trying to test my ability to bounce back. I’m passionate about writing every day, I want to get better at it, but I also think our minds need a break. So I’ve been putting my theory to the test. So far I’m succeeding.
Start/Stop Approach to Blogging
After no posts Saturday/Sunday of the last two weeks, I have posted every day following the weekend. This not only shows me I can stop/start, but it also shows me that my writing gets better with a clear head. I’ve been skiing in the mountains over the weekend and enjoying the moment. When I don’t have the “I have to write a blog post” thought hanging over my head, I’m more mindful of life around me.
The stop/start mentality is something missing from entrepreneurs and it eventually will suck the life out of them. As humans, we are not meant to work all the time. Our ancestors spent a few hours a week hunting-gathering and then enjoyed leisure time. It’s important for the mind to relax, connect synapses, and develop away from work.
Live Mindfully
Instead of busting our butts for long-hour accolades it’s actually more efficient to stop when we need a break. It may be hard as obsessed entrepreneurs but we must do it for the long-term. Life is meant for love, passion, and happiness but that can only be achieved from living our lives mindfully.