It happens to all of us from time to time. Even in the face of a rapidly approaching deadline, we find ourselves staring at our desks, reading web comics, or shopping for new books to order online and never find time to read. Entire days can be lost to unshakable ennui.
At FrogSlayer, we have a burnout policy: if you’re burned out, take a day off. Come back tomorrow when you’re refreshed, and put in a proper day’s work.
We also have a Don’t Be A Hero policy, which discourages working more than 40 hours a week (and forbids working over 50 hours a week). A well-rested software developer can accomplish more in one hour than an overworked one can with an extra 10 — and his work will be better.
Unfortunately, a lot of companies have not embraced more progressive policies. If you can’t get away for a day to reset your brain, the solution is a sprint – a brief period of time, during which a specific goal is accomplished. Here are three steps that you can use to get yourself back on track:
Step 1: Pick a 10- to 30-minute task.
Start by picking a simple task from your to-do list. Preferably one which will take you at least 10 minutes, but no more than 30. It’s important to stay within this range. If your work isn’t time-sensitive (writers, for example), resolve simply to work on your task for 20 minutes.
Step 2: Take a 10-minute break.
Go outside for 10 minutes. The break room will work in a pinch, but getting some direct sunlight is miraculously refreshing. 10 minutes of sunlight stimulates production of serotonin which can improve your mood, as well as release endorphins which are essential for combatting depression.
Don’t look at a screen, including the one on your phone. Just breathe, and enjoy the calm before the storm.
Step 3: Attack your task.
Go to the bathroom, grab a drink or snack, and head back to your desk. Ignore all distractions, and work until the task is done or until your time limit is reached. You should find yourself free of the ennui and ready to face the rest of your day.
As mentioned previously, the 10- to 30-minute time period for this task is essential. Anything less than 10 minutes is not enough time to establish the working rhythm, and anything more than 30 minutes pushes the feeling of accomplishment too far away to keep you motivated.
Good luck, and don’t underestimate the benefits of caffeine in a pinch!
