Green Time for the C-Suite: How Nature Walks Boost Leadership Skills
In the fast-paced world of corporate leadership, time is often viewed as the most precious commodity. Every minute is accounted for, scheduled, and optimised for maximum productivity. In this high-pressure environment, the idea of taking a leisurely walk in nature during the workday might seem like an indulgence at best, and a waste of time at worst.
But what if I told you that this simple act could be the key to unlocking your full potential as a leader?
Forget the corner office. The real power move is taking that lunchtime walk in nature.
The Science Behind Nature’s Impact
Before we dive into how nature walks can boost your leadership skills, let’s look at the science behind nature’s impact on our brains and bodies:
1. Stress Reduction: A study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology found that just 20–30 minutes in nature significantly lowers cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress.
2. Improved Attention: Research from the University of Michigan showed that walking in nature, or even viewing pictures of nature, can improve directed-attention abilities.
3. Enhanced Creativity: A study in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that people immersed…