Adjust Your Screen for Instant Performance Boost

STOP and notice how you are reading this RIGHT NOW!

Are your shoulders back and open, or are you slouched over?
Are you looking up or down?
Are you breathing in your upper chest or stomach?

The chances are high, you answered, slumped over, looking down, and breathing in your upper chest.
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The bad news is that your current posture and breathing pattern are not ideal. The great news, however, is that by making a few simple adjustments, you can experience an instant performance boost!

1. Screen Height

I’ve mentioned in previous editions that your eyes are an integral part of your brain and are incredibly linked. It won’t come as a surprise to know that the more your eyes are open, the more alert you feel, and the more your eyes are closed, the sleepier you will feel.

Notice that anything below eye level closes your eyes, and anything above eye level promotes your eyes to be more open.
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To increase alertness, you must increase the height at which you perceive the device you are focusing on. You will signal sleepiness to your brain and body if you don't.

This adjustment automatically improves our next point which is posture.

2. Posture

In the last edition, I explained the importance of body language. We all know it makes up more than half of the communication towards your external world. What not many people know, and what I explained in the last edition, is that it’s also the most crucial way you communicate to yourself about how you are feeling. If you act tired and unmotivated, you will quickly feel this way.

If you sit like you are motivated and full of energy with your shoulders back, you will quickly move into the corresponding state.
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Having your chest open also improves our next point, which is breathing.

3. Breathing

Deep breaths that fill your stomach, also known as diaphragmatic breathing, are a powerful way of boosting your energy and alertness. You will take in more oxygen and fuel for your cells, including the ones in your brain. This improved oxygen supply can leave you feeling more energized and ready to tackle the day.

Additionally, deep breaths activate your relaxation response, countering stress that can leave you drained. With a calmer mind and body, you'll naturally feel more focused and alert.

We’ve covered a lot in this edition, but it all comes down to assessing your workspace and habits. Sit up straight and angle your screen at or slightly above eye level, and your performance will improve instantly at no cost at all!

I hope you found this interesting,
Philippe