I Work Outdoors to Boost My Mood
Incorporating nature into my work life
Today I have another story for you about me trying to improve my work life. Recently, I stumbled upon a concept that’s been a game-changer for me:
Outdoor work.
No, it’s not a fancy new app or a trendy co-working space. It’s simply the idea of working outdoors, surrounded by nature. And let me tell you, it’s been nothing short of transformative.
Now, I’ve always been a bit of a traditionalist when it comes to work. Desk, chair, computer, and a cup of coffee — that’s been my setup for years.
But a few months ago, I hit a wall.
My creativity was dwindling, and stress? It was through the roof. I needed a change besides digital detox, and fast.
One day, on a whim, I decided to take my laptop to the local park. I found a quiet spot under a tree, and just like that, my office had a major upgrade.
The chirping of birds replaced the hum of air conditioners.
The rustling of leaves became my new background music.
And the view? Let’s just say it’s better than staring at a beige wall all day.
The benefits? They started rolling in faster than I’d imagined. First off, my creativity soared. There’s something about being in nature that just gets the blood flowing.
Ideas that had been stuck in my head for weeks suddenly flowed onto the page. Projects that felt like a drag became exciting again.
But that’s not all. My stress level plummeted.
I mean, how can you stay wound up when you’re surrounded by the calming beauty of nature?
The fresh air, the gentle breeze, the sheer vastness of the sky. It all worked together to melt away the tension.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “That’s great for you, but I have a real job. I can’t just go and work in a park.”
I get it. I had the same reservations. But here’s the thing: even if you can’t make nature’s office your full-time gig, even a few hours a week can make a world of difference.
And it’s not just me saying this. There’s actual science backing it up. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can boost creativity, improve concentration, and reduce stress. It’s like a natural tonic for the brain.
Of course, working outdoors isn’t without its challenges. There’s the unpredictable weather, the occasional curious squirrel, and, let’s not forget, the lack of Wi-Fi.
But with a bit of planning (and a good data plan), these hurdles can be easily overcome.
In my case, I started small. I began with just an hour or two a week. I’d check the weather, pack a picnic blanket and some snacks, and head out.
Over time, as I got the hang of it, I started spending more and more time in my new office. And the results?
They speak for themselves.
I won’t lie. There were days when I missed the comfort of my old desk. Days when the sun was too bright or the wind too chilly. But the pros far outweighed the cons. And the value it added to my work and well-being, priceless.
If you’re feeling stuck, stressed, or just plain bored with your current workspace, I urge you to give this a try. It might not be for everyone, but who knows? It could be just the change you need.
Lastly, I’ll leave you with this thought: In a world that’s increasingly digital and disconnected, sometimes the best way to reconnect is to unplug and head outside.
Nature has been here long before us, and it has a lot to offer. All we need to do is step out and embrace it.
I hope my little adventure inspires you to find your own setup. Breathe deep, stay curious, and don’t forget to look up once in a while. The world is a beautiful place.
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