Beat the Afternoon Doldrums With This Productivity Secret

Here's why you need an afternoon ritual.
Here's why you need an afternoon ritual. (Shutterstock/phloxii)

It seems I can't open my email without seeing a note from someone offering suggestions on how to create a better morning ritual.

Time management gurus are obsessed with the 5 things I should do every morning. They tell me what to eat for breakfast and offer suggested reading and even want me to eat a frog every morning.

But not one guru sticks around to help me in the afternoon. So, I'm here for you.

I believe most people begin to fade a little bit after lunch. Research seems to support that thought since the early hours after lunch shows an increase in surfing and social media "checking."

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The afternoon power block is 2-4 pm. This block of time provides a very important leverage to the day. I teach, hold meetings and spend time with others during this block. I rarely attempt to write at this time. It's my time to help others move forward. (80/20 rule--this works 4 days out of 5. Or 4 weeks out of 5.)

The afternoon block is great for streamlining. I can cut to the chase more easily when I'm worn down. In the mornings, I might delay a project due to paralysis by analysis.

I also find that prospects are a little more willing to talk in the afternoon. Their objections are less forceful and people seem to have more time to chat and think about what could be.

Take a moment and be intentional about an afternoon block of time. Make a plan.

Morning stress creates messes.

"As I journeyed and came near Damascus, about noon, suddenly a great light from heaven shone around me."  (Acts 22:6)

Dr. Steve Greene is the publisher and executive vice president of the media group at Charisma Media and executive producer of the Charisma Podcast Network. His book, Love Leads: The Spiritual Connection Between Your Relationships and Productivity, is now available.

Leaders, Dr. Greene wants to help you understand the spiritual connection between relationships and productivity. Read his new blog, here.

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Dr. Steve Greene is now sharing stories, teachings, and conversations with guests who lead with love on Love Leads, a new podcast. Listen now.



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