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surprising science of why you'll get more done by having fun


Stashed in: #lifehacks, @ifindkarma, Awesome, @emmaseppala, @emmaseppala, fun!

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Bertrand Russell said it best, writing In Praise of Idleness:

There was formerly a capacity for light-heartedness and play which has been to some extent inhibited by the cult of efficiency. The modern [person] thinks that everything ought to be done for the sake of something else, and never for its own sake.

Overworking comes at a cost and fails to provide us with essential skills for professional success. Taking breaks from work makes a person happier, healthier, and more successful.

Specifically, make time to:

  1. Do nothing. Resting, dreaming, hiking, and other similar “get your mind out of work” activities clear space in the brain for new thoughts and insights.
  2. Be social. Socializing deepens relationships and strengthens bonds in our professional network.
  3. Serve others. Exercising empathy and compassion for others increases our well-being (and that of others!), our opportunities, and our luck.

Most of all, enjoy your time. Remember the words of Bertrand Russell in praise of idleness: “the time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time.”

i LOVE this article!  nice work, adam!  :)

Thank you Emily -- I actually co-wrote it with Emma Seppala and she did most of the work so I will pass along your kudos. :)

looks like both of you are giving the other full credit.  classic givers.  :)

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