Coffee shops are one of my favorite places to go. There’s something about the atmosphere that feels inviting to me. The mix of comforting aromas, the quiet hum of activity, and the opportunity to people-watch all contribute to my love for these spaces. I also enjoy seeing others working on their projects, which makes me feel like I’m in good company.
The U of the FOCUS Framework
Being in a college town, worker bees are abundant. As a person who at times needs body doubling to complete tasks, this is AMAZING.
But this day, I went on a break from my Metro Witnessing shift. The line was long, there were many students waiting on their drinks, and I began to think, “Do I have enough time to get this and be back in a reasonable amount of time?” As a time-conscious person, I am constantly thinking about being back or to places on time.
I had to slow down my racing thoughts and remind myself that a break was needed. I had to remind myself of who my key man was for the day. I had to remind myself that instead of standing up to wait for my coffee, I needed to sit down.
In moments of anxiety, redirecting the brain is just as important as what action you need to take about said thing.
Because I have a framework to help with my productivity—including my mental well-being—a portion of it kicked in. I was able to UTILIZE a tool in my brain-calming techniques and rational thinking.
What did this allow me to do?
- It allowed me to talk kindly to myself, reassuring myself that it’s okay, even if I’m a little late.
- It allowed me to remind myself that next time, I should get a clear answer on how long my break should be, so I can assess the situation before getting in line.
- It allowed me to sit down and take in the sights of the college students working away or talking with their friends.
- It allowed me to enjoy the music that was playing, singing or humming softly along with it.
- It allowed me to enjoy the aroma, snap a picture, and indulge in a few sips after they called my name—while sitting down, instead of rushing back to my assignment.
This moment of mindfulness helped me calm down and truly appreciate the break I was giving myself.
Calm Leads to Contemplation
As I sat there, I made an observation I hadn’t noticed before: I don’t see many minorities at this coffee shop—or really, at any of the ones I frequent in this area. It’s interesting how different cultural habits can be.
I mentioned this to my sister, and she agreed. We both didn’t start drinking coffee until we were older, largely influenced by those around us in our volunteer ministry. Growing up, we drank more hot tea than coffee.
I could be wrong, but I do think in the Black community, coffee isn’t introduced to kids as much as it is in other cultures. I remember hearing things like “caffeine stunts your growth” when I was younger. Maybe that’s more of a generational thing, but it’s something to think about.
Utilize and Connect
So what in the world does this have to do with productivity?
The Utilize portion of the FOCUS Framework gives you the gift of connecting with yourself. You get to enjoy your own company more. You get to enjoy where you are, right there in the moment, and make connections you’ve never made before—no matter how often you’ve been in the same place.
You also get to connect with others better too! Your attention will be on them and their every word. You will get to learn about them—their feelings, likes, and dislikes. You get to create solid friendships, strengthen family bonds, attract your ideal clients, and hit the mark more at work.
But mostly, as I said before, you get to connect with yourself. Let’s face it, you’re with you the most.
So ask yourself—when was the last time you were able to utilize something that calmed you down?
If you can’t answer that, then I have the solution for you.
But first, I want you to imagine the last time you were in a state of overwhelm.
- How long did it take for you to realize you were overwhelmed?
- How long did it take for you to figure out what was making you overwhelmed?
- How long did it take you to get yourself back to a place of peace?
Now, imagine being able to do that so fast that you don’t even realize it’s happening. It becomes automatic.
This is the result you get when you work with me in my Private Coaching Program, Emotions in Check, Productivity on Deck.
So my love, it’s time to take action. But don’t think about it too much, or you’ll end up right back where you started—overwhelmed and frozen.
Click the link to have an enrollment discussionhttps://pensight.com/x/pinkproco/meeting-76289b2c-e9d4-4bfd-b056-49a2789e02e4 with me so we can get started on your Mindfully Productive journey.
P.S. Not ready for a consultation? Get the freebie Mindful Journaling for Emotional Regulation with Aromatherapy to start calming your mind today.
The Mindfully Productive Era 