There are some disagreements about the effects of mindfulness on productivity. Some researchers believe that, by increasing workers’ feelings of contentment, mindfulness leads to a decrease in productivity. Many other researchers, however, have found that practicing mindfulness has the opposite effect and instead increases overall productivity. Here are some of the ways mindfulness can support your productivity at work. 

Mindfulness Sharpens Your Focus

As you practice mindfulness, you will become more mentally present in every aspect of your life, including work. This awareness will improve your concentration and make you more conscious about how you waste time during your day. Eliminating time-wasters will help you to concentrate on the tasks that matter most and allow you to get more done in the same amount of time. 

Regular mindfulness practices also strengthen the prefrontal cortex, which can give you more control over your thoughts and allow you to focus more effectively. A study at the University of California found that participants who practiced mindfulness for two weeks were significantly less prone to mind-wandering than they were before the study began. Less mind-wandering equals more productivity. 

Mindfulness Makes You More Creative

Mindfulness is also extremely useful in increasing creativity, including creative problem-solving. Problems at work are often some of the biggest roadblocks to productivity, so learning to overcome them efficiently is one of the best ways to increase your output. Mindfulness also contributes to overall stress reduction, which, in turn, makes problems seem less daunting and more surmountable.  

The more creative you are at work, the more fresh ideas you can contribute to your organization. Increased creativity will also improve your overall productivity by helping you to “think outside the box.” 

Mindfulness Makes You Happier 

In addition to the benefits already mentioned, mindfulness also improves stress management, promotes better mental and physical health, and increases job satisfaction. Simply put, mindfulness makes you happier at work. This fact is significant because, according to a University of Warwick study, happy workers are at least 12% more productive than unhappy ones. 

As a bonus, increased mindfulness at work will also improve your communication skills and help you to feel more connected with your coworkers. Feeling connected at work will also contribute to your feelings of job satisfaction and productivity. 

In conclusion, if you want to improve your productivity (or the productivity of your employees), mindfulness might be the answer you’ve been looking for. Start your mindfulness practice today!