This week we’re learning how to press pause — even if it’s just for a few seconds, bringing yourself back to the present moment can make your whole day more productive. Pressing pause is the perfect way to reset. Whether it’s one hour or one minute of your day, pausing from all of life’s demands and stresses can help clear your mind and bring you back to the present.

Replenish and Reset

Life can be a whirlwind of social obligations, work schedules, and various appointments. It’s easy to feel worn down and depleted. While it seems like a counter-intuitive or “lazy” strategy to pause, it actually has the opposite effect. It actually helps with problem-solving, allows us to prioritize mental health, and helps us come back even stronger.

Hit Pause Daily

Whether it’s right when you open your eyes in the morning or just after dinner, find a quiet time in your day to reflect and focus on your breath. Bringing yourself back to the present moment can boost productivity and help to get things done with greater intention. Pro tip: pick the same time each day to pause — during your first cup of coffee, for example. Associating an activity with your purposeful pauses will help you to remember to do it, day after day, until it becomes second nature.

Stop the Overstimulation

We’ve become numb to the fact that we’re constantly taking in new information. From sounds and songs, to social posts, to demands at work and in life. Our life can be an overwhelming blur, one where we find ourselves on autopilot to stay sane. Take a few minutes to escape the noise, set intentions, and find perspective.

If you’re too swamped with all of life’s obligations, use Alfred to take care of your checklist while you take some well-deserved peace and quiet.