Pets and Productivity

 Dear Real Academics,

Today is National Pet Day (April 11). For those of you who have furry (or non-furry) friends, take a moment to appreciate your pet(s) past or current - yes, let's remember our friends who are no longer with us!

I certainly appreciate my pet, Rocky. He is a 20 lb. rescue dog with a small build but a big heart.
Here is a recent picture I have of him on my cell phone (one of MANY):


Rocky was enjoying a "pup cup" (i.e., whipped cream in a cup) at Freddy's Frozen Custard and Steakburgers that day. This is the reason for the cream on his lips. You can follow Rocky on his Instagram channel here.

So, in honor of Rocky and all pets past and present...here are some pros to owning a pet related to...you guessed it!....productivity.

(1) They know your routine and will hold you accountable if you don't keep it.
I had a colleague who told the story of writing every morning and then taking her dog out to walk. One week, her family was in town and she did not sit down to write as usual. Her dog pushed her to her writing desk, wanting her to write and then take him for a walk. Now, that's a writing dog! 
For me, Rocky jumps on what I call "the writing couch" and reminds me it's time to write if I break routine.

(2) They make you get up and have to walk, play, and/or just feed or pet them.
Movement is so important for productivity, as are breaks. Being on the computer for too long of a time without a break is actually bad for your health and for your productivity.

(3) They are good for your soul.
Pets have been known to help lower blood pressure and increase positive moods. I don't know about you, but I need as much good blood pressure and positive moods as I can get these days! :-)

Of course, pets are not for everyone, but I thought it would be fun to reflect on the positives to owning a pet and how they can contribute to productivity. If you own a pet, let it know how much you appreciate it today -- take it for a walk, give it a treat, spend some time playing, or other.

Until next time, happy writing and/or productivity!

www.therealacademics.com

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