Standing for Productivity

I first began thinking about it when I saw a commercial of a man doing voice overs. He was standing near a microphone and speaking rather dramatically, even gesturing with his hands as he delivered his recorded message. He could have sat down for this since nobody would be watching him on the recording. Why not relax?

When I direct Region bands, I am on my feet all day. I only sit down on breaks or meal times. Otherwise I stay standing all day, maintaining a high energy tempo throughout my teaching. Learning that Brahms composed standing up, Donald Rumsfeld always works standing up, Generals often have standing meetings, I have decided to stand up while I work.

Added to this commitment, I noticed at the Apple store, the workers all stood while they helped customers. Same with the AT&T store. Standing must aid in productivity.

So I bought a standing desk, placed it near my old, antiquated sitting desk and now stay active all day. For one thing, it makes work fun and gives me a spring in my step. Instead of that old, creaky knees problem, I am ready to move at a blink. Signing documents is quick and easy, getting coffee is fast, and I even think my breathing is easier. All in all so far this is a successful venture.

On the downside, people do look at me oddly when they enter the office, curious why I am standing up. Also conferences are a little awkward standing. Because of this, I often sit during conferences to make the other person more comfortable. My standing desk, though, gives the appearance of energy and expectations, and as we know perception can become reality. I find myself doubly productive, interested in even the mundane tasks, and enjoying my office work. No, it is not for everyone and yes, I tend to be a contrarian at times, but I do hope to see others give it a try.

I wonder if I could try a standing meeting with some people. We might see quicker results, less distraction, and more goal-direction. Just an idea. So I stand for productivity in all things, it makes work fun.