How Meditation Increases Productivity



Posted: Tuesday, April 13, 2010

by Christopher Edgar
Purpose Power Coaching

When I tell people I write about the connection between productivity and spiritual practices like meditation and yoga , some are skeptical or confused. "  the connection between productivity and spiritual practices like meditation and yoga , some are skeptical or confused. "I thought meditation was about relaxing, not getting things done," some say. Others assume the practices I'm talking about have to do with becoming enlightened or seeking ultimate truth, and don't have practical, down-to-earth benefits.

In fact, there's plenty of research suggesting that meditation benefits our ability to pay attention and our motivation, which of course are key to doing our work efficiently. It also helps prevent stress and resulting health problems that sidetrack us in our work.

As one goal of my work is to raise consciousness about how spiritual practices can help us find career satisfaction , I'll talk about some of this research here.

Attention. A Massachusetts General Hospital study reported that meditation thickens parts of the brain's cerebral cortex responsible for decisionmaking, attention and memory .

Motivation. A study at the University of Wisconsin showed that regular meditation leads to significantly increased levels of activity in the left prefrontal cortex of the brain , which is associated with "positive emotions and goal-seeking behaviors."

Efficiency. Three years after it implemented a meditation program for its employees, a Detroit chemical plant reported that productivity at the facility had increased by 120%, and absenteeism had decreased by 80% .

Freedom From Distractions. An Emory University study reported that meditation enhances the brain's capacity to limit the influence of distracting thoughts .

Stress Reduction. A Cedars-Sinai Medical Center study suggested that meditation reduces blood pressure levels , thus reducing worker absenteeism due to stress-related medical problems.

Pain Tolerance. According to a University of Montreal study, meditation reduces sensitivity to pain , and thus helps people focus on the task in front of them even in the face of physical discomfort.

Some people tell me they'd like to take up meditation, but they don't have time given all their other responsibilities. However, there's lots of evidence suggesting that, when we regularly meditate, we develop a sense of inner peace and focus that actually helps us get more done in a shorter period and thus save time.

In other words, if you meditate, you may end up less overwhelmed by all the stuff you have to do.

Chris Edgar is the author of Inner Productivity: A Mindful Path to Efficiency and Enjoyment in Your Work, which uses insights from mindfulness practice and psychology to help readers develop focus and motivation in what they do. You can find out more about the book and Chris’s work at www.InnerProductivity.com.

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