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Summary

The author shares their transformative experience of working outdoors and the positive impact it has had on their mood, creativity, and stress levels.

Abstract

The article "I Work Outdoors to Boost My Mood" details the author's journey of integrating nature into their work life as a means to enhance their overall well-being. Initially a traditional office worker, the author found themselves in a creative rut and sought a change. By working from a local park, they discovered a significant improvement in their mental state. The natural surroundings, including the presence of trees, birds, and fresh air, provided a serene backdrop that not only sparked creativity but also drastically reduced stress. The author emphasizes that even a few hours a week in such an environment can be beneficial, citing scientific studies that support the positive effects of nature on cognitive functions. Despite challenges like unpredictable weather and lack of Wi-Fi, the author found these to be minor inconveniences compared to the advantages gained. The article concludes with an encouragement for readers to try working outdoors, suggesting that it could be a rejuvenating change from the conventional workspace.

Opinions

  • The author believes that working outdoors has significantly improved their creativity and reduced stress.
  • They suggest that the benefits of being in nature, such as enhanced creativity and concentration, are supported by scientific research.
  • The author initially had reservations about the feasibility of outdoor work due to the nature of their job but found that even occasional outdoor work sessions were highly beneficial.
  • They acknowledge the challenges of working outdoors, such as weather and lack of Wi-Fi, but argue that these can be overcome with planning and a good data plan.
  • The author promotes the idea of working outdoors as a natural tonic for the brain and a way to reconnect with the world in an increasingly digital age.
  • They encourage readers who feel stuck or stressed in their current work environment to consider trying outdoor workspaces.

I Work Outdoors to Boost My Mood

Incorporating nature into my work life

Photo by David L. Espina Rincon on Unsplash

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.

Photo by Unsplash on Unsplash

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.

Photo by Radu Florin on Unsplash

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.

Photo by Benjamin Davies on Unsplash

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.

Photo by David Marcu on Unsplash

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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