White January 2024: Why can working less mean working better?

TaskIT, a consultancy focused on transforming the world of work through intelligence and technology, invites us to reflect on mental health and time optimization.

White January 2024: In mid-2014, a movement led by psychologists gained momentum with the aim of raising public awareness of the importance of mental health. White January, as it is known, proposes reflections and actions to promote emotional care and combat the stigma associated with mental disorders. January was chosen as the symbolic month to start the year with a closer look at mental well-being, encouraging dialog about emotions, mental health and the search for a more balanced lifestyle. Since then, the initiative has grown and gained support, encouraging individuals, organizations and communities to prioritize mental health in their daily journeys. White January invites us to reflect on the importance of cultivating healthy habits to promote mental well-being.

Among the various concerns and initiatives involving the care of the mind and the emotional state, it is important to understand the warning signs in the workplace and approaches that lead workers and organizations to more favorable scenarios. Among these, rest is a topic of paramount importance. As we seek inspiration from the book "Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less" by Alex Soojung-Kim Pang, it is crucial to understand that rest is not just about inactivity, but includes restorative activities that recharge our physical and mental energies

What is active rest and what are its advantages?

Active rest is an approach that recognizes the importance of disconnecting from work in a productive way, promoting physical and mental recovery. Unlike the traditional conception of rest, which is often associated with passive rest, active rest involves activities that revitalize, energize and contribute to overall well-being. Walking, practicing hobbies, taking breaks during the day and adopting micro breaks are examples of active rest practices. These activities aim to recharge energies, improve focus and creativity, as well as helping to prevent mental and physical exhaustion, promoting a healthy balance between work and rest.

TaskIT has put together five tips related to rest and productivity to promote mental and emotional well-being:

1. Discover yourself: Identify activities that provide relaxation and pleasure, such as short walks or moments dedicated to hobbies.

2. Integrate short breaks into your routine: Set aside brief moments for breaks during the day, providing space for disconnection and mental recharging.

3. List your daily goals: Organize your day with a list of realistic tasks. Prioritize and complete activities, avoiding overload and being realistic.

4. Reconsider long working hours: Evaluate the quality of the time spent at work. Excessively long working hours can have a negative impact on your mental health and reduce your productivity.

5. Disconnect from technology: Integrate short breaks throughout the day to revitalize your mind. Limiting the use of technology at certain times also contributes to mental rest.

White January: How can organizations create healthier environments?

Companies can play a significant role in caring for mental health. Initiatives such as active rest programs, psychological support and flexibility in the work environment are fundamental. Investing in employee well-being not only strengthens the team, but also boosts productivity and results. The use of tools to manage work, map tasks and distribute resources can be an ally in this regard. Work overload and team imbalance can be detrimental to employees' mental and emotional health. Finding ways to balance tasks and prioritize goals are crucial to promoting a better quality of life in the workplace.

By adopting practices that promote mental health, we not only improve our quality of life, but also contribute to healthier and more productive work environments. This White January, let's embark on a journey of mindfulness together, promoting habits that last throughout the year.