Spinning Out of Productivity

Delivered from Distraction (Edward M. Hallowell, M.D. and John J. Ratey, M.D. , Ballantine Books 2005) has a "SPIN" on why we get stuck:

• S is shame
• P is pessimism and negativity
• I is isolation
• N is "no creative outlet"

Slowly, your to-do list becomes a Dicken's novel and your workspace a pile farm. You feel overwhelmed, and start spinning.

Your first action should be a deep breath, followed by a quick check-in of SPIN:

• Shame: Believe me, you aren't the only one in this situation. We've all been there. There is no reason to feel shame about such a human condition.
• Pessimism: Ahem, yes there is hope. You're reading this blog, for one thing. Move on to . . .
• Isolation: Here's an action step you can take - don't wallow alone! Ask for assistance from a friend, co-worker (see if you can motivate each other), or a professional, such as myself.
• No Creative Outlet: Don't deny yourself fun until you clean up your act. That's the most unproductive thing you can do. Stepping away (for a day or two, not forever) may give you insights you won't get otherwise. My creative outlet is hiking, and I often find my best thoughts come to me unbidden while I hike. Dr Hallowell says your creative outlet is your "doorway to flow" and “To get out of spin, play.” I heartily agree.