The month of May is Correct Posture Month. According to the American Posture Institution, startups, entrepreneurs, and business leaders lose an average of 6 hours in productivity per week. The typical loss of activity is attributed to headaches, back pain, and decreased focus. On any given workday, there are a number of factors that play a major part in your posture. They include the placement of your work chair, keyboard, lighting, and monitors. Once you are aware of how these factors can make or break proper posture, it is suggested you pay close attention to where you can make a series of improvements.

As a hard working entrepreneur, business owner, and professional – you naturally put in longer hours than most. With the huge amount of responsibility and work associated with running successful organizations, posture and ergonomics isn’t seen as a huge priority. It then becomes a priority when you hit crisis mode to the point where there is severe pain and a large decrease in productivity.Time is precious.

If your work requires the use of a computer, you most likely suffer from rounded shoulders and a forward head posture. Ouch! Think about it, are you sore after working at the computer? If the answer is yes, chances are it also makes you sleepy and tired while trying to crush the day. Your body is lacking oxygen and produces chemicals to signal a nap. If your work is more active and strenuous, it is equally important to conduct activities using ergonomic best practices.

Positively re-educating yourself about proper posture and ergonomics is a step in a great direction for increased productivity, motivation, and happiness.

Here are a few tips to help:

Reminders
We all focus when we have a deadline or important work to get done. Sometimes we need a steady reminder. Set an alarm or use a sticky note to remind you to get up, walk around, and take advantage of a break.

Take Breaks
Allow yourself time to reset during the day or while at the computer. If you work for a full hour, take 20 to 40 seconds to stand-up, stretch, and reset your posture. Raise your hands in the air and make a large circle to reset. It will allow more oxygen flow, clarity, and better awareness during the work day.

Although relatively simple, these changes will truly help the way you tackle your very busy days.

Simply Sociable is a boutique administrative firm that understands the importance of leveraging the internet and technology. Simply Sociable specializes in helping small businesses and entrepreneurs to work on their business instead of in it. They provide administrative consultations and virtual administrative assistants to get things done. Nadia Alcide is the founder and a University of Florida alumni.