Working Less This Summer Could Help You Get More Done
Scrolling through Instagram can make it feel like everyone is on vacation right now, which is no fun to see when you’re stuck at the office. If you wish you…
Mother and daughter running inside the water on tropical beach – Mum playing with her kid in holiday vacation next to the ocean – Family lifestyle and love concept – Focus on bodies silhouette
Getty Images/DisobeyArtScrolling through Instagram can make it feel like everyone is on vacation right now, which is no fun to see when you’re stuck at the office. If you wish you were anywhere else but at work right now, you’re not alone. A Harvard study finds that workers are less productive when the weather is warm and sunny, because they’re daydreaming about being outside.
If you can’t take time off this summer, you may still be able to work less and actually get more done. According to CNBC, research has shown that slowing down at work can help lower stress, which makes it easier to focus and be productive.
This is how to get more done in less time this summer, according to productivity experts:
- Pare down your to-do list - Put urgent work-related tasks at the top, followed by tasks that bring you the most joy. “When you have a leaner to-do list and a sense of how to tackle everything on it, there’s less overarching angst about having a lot on your plate,” explains time management expert Laura Vanderkam.
- Take micro-breaks - We’re talking five to 10 minutes, just enough to give your brain a chance to rest so you stay focused and motivated. Psychologist Sarah Sarkis says, “The more control we have over our work, the more empowered we feel.” So take advantage of those breaks to help motivate you to work more efficiently.
- Plan fun - Instead of longing for summer fun and letting those thoughts distract you from work, schedule some fun time you can enjoy when you’re off the clock. Think about what would make you feel like you had a really good summer too, like trying that new restaurant, then make it happen.
- Try mono-tasking - Many of us think multi-tasking makes us more productive, but it can actually keep you from focusing, making tasks take longer to finish. To minimize distractions and interruptions and accomplish more, try setting aside at least two to four hours a day to focus on one project and only one. That means not checking email, looking at your phone or chatting with coworkers and really giving all of your attention to the task at hand. The experts say you’ll be surprised how much faster you get stuff done that way.
Three North Carolina Patios Included On Open Table’s Best Outdoor Dining List
Summer is here, and is there anything better than enjoying a delicious meal, a refreshing cocktail or glass of wine, and the warm summer air and a nice breeze? The answer is no. There is not. If you disagree, you can stop reading this isn't the information for you. Now that I have reached my target audience, I'll elaborate. The dining experts at OpenTable have compiled a list of the best outdoor dining in the country. And with 50 states, countless cities, and limitless restaurants there is a lot of stiff competition. But the good news is that three different North Carolina restaurants made the list of best outdoor dining.
Open Table Best Outdoor Dining
According to OpenTable this list "spans restaurants coast-to-coast and is determined by verified diner reviews." And I can verify it's literally coast to coast because I saw one restaurant in Hawaii. And while I've never been to Hawaii, I'm pretty sure any outdoor dining there is superior. You'd probably assume the North Carolina restaurants included on this outdoor dining list are all at the coast. Right? Wrong. One is, and it's actually one some family members told me about recently. The other two are, unexpectedly, in Greensboro. I've seen several Triad restaurants on these sorts of lists lately. I don't typically give the area much credit (I've lived in Charlotte and Raleigh) but may have to go explore one weekend.
Not only was North Carolina included on the list. The Palmetto State of course was too. Two South Carolina restaurants were recognized for their outdoor dining. One again on the beach, and the other in a trendy, growing city. Time to plan some road trips because there is nothing more I want this summer than some incredible food, an Aperol spritz, and a patio. Preferably with a water view. Keep reading to learn all about the North and South Carolina restaurants included on Open Table's list of the best outdoor dining. Want to see the full list? Get all the info here.
Green Valley Grill
Address: 622 Green Valley Rd, Greensboro, NC 27408
Green Valley Grill has received numerous accolades. This fine dining restaurant is adjacent to the O.Henry Hotel near Greensboro's Friendly Center. They self describe their cuisine as incorporating "fresh seasonal Old World European and Mediterranean flavors from the wood-fired rotisserie and grill." And what meal isn't complete without a wide array of artisanal cocktails. Or if craft beers or wine is more your drink of choice they've got that covered as well. Green Valley Grill is the only restaurant in Greensboro to receive the Wine Spectator “Best of Award of Excellence”. They were also named one of the Top 100 Most Beloved Restaurants in America. Who knew all this was just down the road in Greensboro? And look at that patio!
Print Works Bistro
Address: 702 Green Valley Road Greensboro, NC 27408
Actually owned at operated by the same people as Green Valley Grill, Print Works Bistro is located adjacent to Proximity Hotel. The menu features classical and modern versions of French bistro dishes all made with locally sourced food. Pair your meal with one of over 75 wines offered by the glass or a spectacular craft cocktail.
The Oyster Rock Waterfront Seafood
Address: 9931 Nance St, Calabash, NC 28467
Located in a beautiful setting in an area known for its Calabash seafood is The Oyster Rock. "The Rock" is a family-owned and operated waterfront restaurant specializing in excellent seafood and raw bar items. Not a seafood lover? They also have plenty of beef, chicken, and pork dishes, along with sandwiches and burgers for land lovers. No judgment here!
Charlie's Coastal Bistro (L'etoile Verte)
Address: 8 New Orleans Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
This recently renamed restaurant still packs the same menu and charm. Located on Hilton Head Island this coastal French bistro. They self describe as "casual fine dining at it's best". Considering the coastal location the menu has a focus on fresh seafood but with a combination of French and lowcountry flair.
Soby's
Address: 207 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601
Soby's has been a Greenville institution for 25 years. The restaurant's website describes the beloved spot as "an experience you can't miss" that is "rich in history and rustic charm". The menu features southern-inspired cuisine made with locally-grown, seasonal ingredients.
