If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the past few years is that I needed to get out more. I don’t mean go out on a bender or nights out (though nights out with a few friends do help) but I mean get out in the fresh air more.

At the end of December last year I took a crazy step at the time in buying a kayak. I had picked up a Bic sport Ouassou kayak in all its red glory and I brought it to a lake, paddled around and thought “this is fantastic”.

Despite the fact it was initially hard on the arms and the breathing and, looking back, rather cold, the best part about it was getting away from the computer and throwing myself into something that was out of the house and as far removed from the internet as possible. Just taking an hour for myself at the weekend could completely re-energise me when working from home. I could return to the desk fresh, full of energy and with a clear plan of action.

Even getting out of the house at lunch time for a half hour for a walk around the supermarket (don’t go in on an empty stomach!) can ease some of the pressure involved in a job, help clear your mind and refocus your attention on the jobs at hand.

Already this week I’ve had mails from someone explaining how they’re “working round the clock” in order to get a job finished for the weekend. At what cost… no sleep, loss of energy, becoming edgy?

Don’t be afraid to tune out for a half hour for an hour, and definitely don’t be afraid to do it in the outdoors! Grab your iPod or dog and go for a walk, stroll to a nearby shop, sit out in the garden, soak up the fresh air!

You’ll be all the better off for it!

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