Tag Archives: Community

Screen Time Reset: Reducing Digital Overload for Improved Efficiency
15
Nov
Social Responsibility, Tips

Screen time reset: reducing digital overload

Posted on by Daniela Pineda

In today’s digital age, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the constant barrage of screens. So, whether it’s your smartphone, laptop, or television, you are likely engaging with one or more screens for the better part of your day. The endless stream of notifications, emails, and social media updates can leave you feeling overstimulated, distracted, and mentally drained. If this sounds familiar, a screen time reset could be the liberating solution you’ve been looking for.

What is a screen time reset?

Firstly, this is a conscious effort to reduce the time spent on screens, particularly non-essential ones. This could be for just a few hours, a day, or even an entire week, depending on your needs and goals. The idea behind this is simple: disconnect from your devices to restore focus, reduce stress, and engage more with the physical world. Basically, it’s not about completely cutting screens but striking a healthier balance between digital engagement and real-world experiences.

Why is this reset important?

A screen time reset can profoundly benefit your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. In today’s fast-paced world, many of us are spending more time than ever before glued to screens. According to a recent study, the average person spends over seven hours on screens daily. This overexposure can lead to digital overload, contributing to increased stress, anxiety, and even physical strain like headaches and eye discomfort. Here are some key benefits of incorporating a screen time reset into your routine:

1. Improved focus and concentration

Maintaining focus can be difficult when you’re constantly shifting between apps, social media, and emails. A screen time reset helps remove these distractions, allowing your brain to recalibrate. By reducing it, you can concentrate better on important tasks, making you more productive throughout the day.

2. Enhanced productivity

With fewer distractions from screens, your brain is free to focus on more meaningful activities. Whether completing a work project, engaging in a hobby, or spending quality time with loved ones, you’ll find that the reset can significantly boost your productivity. Rather than constantly switching between tasks, you can dedicate more time and energy to what truly matters.

3. Better sleep quality

The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with your body’s natural sleep patterns, making it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. By implementing this reset, particularly before bedtime, you can improve the quality of your sleep. Reducing screen exposure before bed allows your body to produce melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep, helping you feel more rested and rejuvenated in the morning.

4. Reduced stress and anxiety

Constant exposure to screens, especially social media, has been linked to increased feelings of stress and anxiety. The need to keep up with messages, emails, and notifications can become overwhelming. A screen time reset helps you detach from this digital noise, lowering stress levels and allowing you to feel more in control of your time and mental space.

5. Improved mood and mental health

Spending less time on screens can boost mood and mental well-being. Also, encourages more real-world interactions and physical activities, which can increase the production of endorphins, the “feel-good” chemicals in your brain. This leads to better mental health and a more positive outlook on life.

6. More time for real-world activities

One of the most tangible benefits of it is that it frees up time for activities that matter. Whether it’s spending time outdoors, exercising, reading a book, or enjoying face-to-face conversations with friends and family, reducing it allows you to invest in more fulfilling experiences. It’s about regaining control over your time and investing it in what truly matters to you.

How to do a screen time reset

Now that you understand the benefits of a screen time reset, it’s time to take action. Here are some practical steps to help you reduce your screen time and improve your overall well-being:

1. Set clear goals

Begin by setting clear and realistic goals for your screen time reset. Ask yourself: What do you hope to achieve by reducing screen time? Whether reducing stress, improving productivity, or simply spending more time on meaningful activities, having a specific goal will help keep you focused and on track.

2. Plan your screen-free time

Decide how much time you want to spend on screens each day and what you’ll do instead. For example, you could designate the first hour of your morning or the last hour before bed as screen-free. Use this time for activities such as reading, exercising, or meditating.

3. Be intentional

Be mindful of how you’re using screens throughout the day. Are you mindlessly scrolling through social media or watching videos? Use your screen time purposefully and ensure it aligns with your goals.

4. Take regular breaks

Even during work hours, it’s essential to take breaks from screens. The 20-20-20 rule can help: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This can reduce eye strain and help refresh your mind.

5. Seek support

Share your screen time reset goals with friends, family, or coworkers. Having others hold you accountable can make the process easier and more effective.

Practical tips for reducing screen time

If you’re looking for ways to start your screen time reset, try these practical tips:

  • Delete social media apps from your phone to reduce the temptation to check them constantly.
  • Set daily screen time limits on your phone or use apps that track your usage.
  • Create screen-free zones in your home, like the dining room or bedroom.
  • Find alternative activities to replace screen time, such as reading, outdoor walks, or hobbies.

Incorporating a screen time reset into your routine can positively affect your mental and physical well-being. By reducing digital overload, you’ll improve your focus, productivity, and sleep and create more space for real-world connections and activities that truly matter. Take the first step today and commit to a more balanced life.

Productivity power hour
15
Oct
Style

Productivity power hour: how to maximize your work time

Posted on by Daniela Pineda

The need to be productive is more pressing than ever. Staying focused and getting things done can be challenging with constant distractions and demands. However, a simple yet effective strategy to optimize your work time and achieve more in less time is the productivity power hour.

The Productivity Power Hour is a straightforward, uninterrupted period where you dedicate yourself to your most important tasks. This strategy involves eliminating all distractions and focusing solely on the task. Its power lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. Here’s how you can harness the power of the Productivity Power Hour to transform your workday.

How to implement a productivity power hour

It is essential to understand that the key to a successful productivity hour is preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to implement this strategy effectively:

  1. Choose your optimal time: identify when you are most productive. This could be early morning, after lunch, or even late at night. The key is to select a time when your energy levels are highest and distractions are minimal.
  1. Find a quiet workspace: your environment plays a crucial role in your ability to focus. Choose a quiet place where you won’t be interrupted. This could be a library, a coffee shop, or even a dedicated corner in your home. The quieter and more comfortable the space, the better.
  1. Set a timer for 60 minutes: the power hour is just that – one focused hour. Set a timer for 60 minutes to mark the beginning and end of your session. This finite time frame helps create a sense of urgency, encouraging you to stay focused and work efficiently.
  1. Create a To-Do List: before starting your hour, list the tasks you aim to complete. Ensure these tasks are straightforward, actionable, and achievable within the given timeframe. A well-structured to-do list is crucial to maintaining focus during your power hour.
  1. Prioritize your tasks: start with the most important and urgent tasks first. By prioritizing effectively, you ensure that your most critical tasks are completed during your peak productivity period.
  1. Focus on one task at a time: multitasking can often reduce productivity rather than enhance it. During your power hour, focus on one task at a time. This approach not only improves concentration but also increases the quality of your work.

Benefits of a productivity power hour

The productivity power hour is more than just a time management strategy; it’s a tool to transform your work habits and increase overall efficiency. Here are some of the key benefits:

  • Increased productivity: You can achieve more in less time by focusing solely on one task at a time and eliminating distractions.
  • Reduced stress: knowing you have dedicated time to tackle important tasks can alleviate stress and reduce feeling overwhelmed.
  • Improved focus: this can train your brain to concentrate more effectively, even outside the power hour.
  • Greater sense of accomplishment: completing tasks within a set timeframe provides a tangible sense of achievement, boosting your morale and motivation.
  • More time for other activities: Efficient work habits free up more time for leisure, hobbies, or additional projects, promoting a healthier work-life balance.

Tips for a successful productivity power hour

To make the most of your Productivity Power Hour, consider these additional tips:

  • Plan ahead: ensure you have everything you need before you start, from materials to information, so you don’t waste valuable time.
  • Eliminate distractions: turn off notifications, close unnecessary tabs, and set your phone to “Do Not Disturb” mode.
  • Set realistic goals: don’t overestimate what you can achieve in one hour. Set achievable goals to maintain motivation and prevent burnout.
  • Take breaks: remember to take short breaks every 20-25 minutes to maintain high energy and focus.
  • Celebrate small wins: after completing a task, take a moment to celebrate your success. This can help reinforce positive habits and maintain your momentum.

Unlocking your productivity potential

The productivity power hour is a simple yet powerful strategy to maximize work time. By dedicating one focused hour to your most important tasks, you can boost your productivity, reduce stress, and gain a greater sense of accomplishment. Start implementing your own Productivity Power Hour today, and watch as you achieve more in less time.

By optimizing your work habits with this approach, you’ll find yourself not only meeting deadlines but also creating more time for what truly matters. The Productivity Power Hour is not just a tool – it’s your pathway to a more productive and fulfilling work life.

The Art of Single-Tasking: Maximize Productivity, Minimize Distractions
18
Sep
Social Responsibility, Tips

Single-tasking: maximize productivity, minimize distractions

Posted on by Daniela Pineda

Today, multitasking seems to be the norm, but actually, single-tasking maximize your productivity and focus. Contrary to popular belief, doing one task at a time can boost your performance and minimize distractions. Giving you more efficient and satisfying results.

Why is single-tasking so effective?

  • Improves concentration: when you focus on a single task, your mind can devote itself entirely to it. And without the need to divide its attention between multiple activities. This translates to greater accuracy and speed in execution.
  • Reduces stress: multitasking can generate a feeling of being overwhelmed and create anxiety, as your brain is constantly switching from one task to another. By focusing on one thing at a time, you experience greater calmness and control, which translates into a better work experience.
  • Decreases errors: when you focus on a single task, you are less likely to make mistakes due to lack of attention or confusion. This allows you to save time and effort in the long run.
  • Increases satisfaction: single-tasking allows you to enjoy the process of each activity, without the pressure of having to complete multiple tasks at the same time. This generates greater personal satisfaction and an improvement in the quality of work.

How to implement single-tasking in your life?

  1. Set priorities: define the most important tasks of the day and focus on one at a time. Break large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps to facilitate the process.  How do you eat an elephant?  One bite at a time.
  2. Eliminate distractions: silence your phone, close unnecessary browser tabs, and find a quiet place where you can work without interruptions.
  3. Practice mindfulness: be aware of the task you are performing and avoid thinking about other things. If your mind starts to wander, gently bring it back to the present.

Single-tasking maximize your productivity. By focusing on one thing at a time, you can unlock your maximum potential and become a more productive, efficient, and happy person.

Remember, the key to mastering the art of single-tasking is consistent practice. Start with small steps and gradually increase the amount of time you dedicate to each task. Over time, single-tasking will become a natural habit that will allow you to achieve your goals with greater ease and satisfaction.

Healthy Habits in the Workplace: A Guide
15
Jul
Style, Tips

Healthy habits in the workplace

Posted on by Daniela Pineda

Feeling tired and demotivated at work? You’re not alone! The workplace can be a breeding ground for
sickly habits. However, there are a number of things we can do to create create and promote healthy habits in the workplace. Long hours, sedentary work, and stress can all take a toll on our physical and mental health.

Our workplace can be a great ally in adopting healthy habits. By incorporating physical activity, a balanced diet, and a positive work environment, we can improve our quality of life and increase our productivity.

Here are a few tips for promoting healthy habits in the workplace:

  1. Plan physical activity: this is one of the best things you can do for your health. It can help you lose weight, reduce your risk of chronic diseases, and improve your mood. There are a number of ways to encourage physical activity in the workplace, especially for those with office jobs, such as:
    • Using the on-site fitness room.
    • Using standing desks or treadmill desks.
    • Walk or stretch on a break.
  2. Healthy food options: eating a healthy diet is another important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Many workplaces offer unhealthy food options, such as vending machines filled with sugary snacks and drinks, but our Moncla Mart offers fresh and healthy options.  You can maximize a healthy lunch with a bang on bag lunch from home!
  3. A culture of wellness: basically, a culture of wellness is one that supports and encourages healthy habits. At Optimus Steel take advantage of:
    • Regular availability of free, fresh fruit.
    • Health screenings and wellness programs.
    • Regular availability of water and other hydrating options.

finally, by promoting healthy habits in the workplace, we can create a healthier and more productive workforce. After considering and engaging in these activities, encourage your teammates to do the same!

Balancing Act: Juggling Work and Personal Wellness
18
Jun
Social Responsibility, Tips

Balancing act: juggling work and personal wellness

Posted on by Daniela Pineda

We are constantly bombarded with messages telling us that we need to be more productive, more successful, and more connected. In the midst of all this, it can be easy to forget about the importance of the Balancing act: juggling work and personal wellness

Work-life balance is the state of equilibrium between professional responsibilities and personal interests. It is about finding a way to be successful at work without sacrificing your health, happiness, or relationships.

There are many benefits to achieving work-life balance

When you master the Balancing act: juggling work and personal wellness, you are more productive, more creative, and more resilient. You are also less likely to experience stress, burnout, and health problems.

Of course, achieving work-life balance is not always easy. There will be times when you need to put in extra hours at work, or when you need to take time off to deal with personal matters. The key is to find a way to manage your time and priorities so that you can meet your obligations without feeling overwhelmed.

Here are a few tips for achieving Balancing act:

  • Set boundaries: it is important to set clear boundaries between your work life and your personal life. This means establishing regular work hours and sticking to them as much as possible. It also means, digital detox.
  • Take breaks: it is important to take breaks throughout the day, both at work and at home. This will help you to stay focused and productive, and it will also help to reduce stress.
  • Delegate: if you have too much on your plate, don’t be afraid to delegate tasks to others. This will free up your time so that you can focus on the most important things.
  • Take care of yourself: make sure to get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly. These things will help you to stay physically and mentally healthy, which will make it easier to cope with the demands of work and life.

Achieving work-life balance is an ongoing process

There will be times when you get off track, but it is important to keep trying. By following these tips, you can find a way to juggle your work and personal responsibilities without sacrificing your health or happiness.

Digital Detox: Unplugging for Mental and Emotional Wellness
15
May
Style, Tips

Digital detox: unplugging for mental and emotional wellness

Posted on by Daniela Pineda

In an era where technology is ever-present, the importance of disconnecting for our mental and emotional wellness cannot be overstated. For that reason, this article explores the concept of a digital detox and its benefits in creating a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

Understanding digital overload

The digital world, while offering numerous benefits, also presents significant challenges. Constant exposure to screens and a never-ending stream of information can lead to digital fatigue. To clarify, symptoms include feeling persistently distracted, a decline in productivity, or an overarching sense of being overwhelmed.

Benefits of a digital detox

Unplugging from digital devices, even for a short period, can have profound positive effects on mental and emotional health. Here are some key benefits:

  • Enhanced focus and productivity: disconnecting helps reset your mind, in other words, improves concentration and efficiency.
  • Improved mental health: regular breaks from digital stimuli can reduce anxiety and stress levels.
  • Better sleep: reducing screen time, especially before bed, can lead to improved sleep quality.
  • Strengthened personal relationships: disconnecting from devices encourages more meaningful face-to-face interactions.

Strategies for a successful digital detox

  • Set clear Boundaries: designate specific times of day or particular zones as screen-free.
  • Prioritize offline activities: engage in hobbies or activities that don’t involve screens.
  • Use technology mindfully: be intentional about when and why you use digital devices.
  • Stay accountable: share your digital detox goals with others to help maintain your commitment.

Implementing a digital detox in daily life

Start small and gradually increase the time you spend away from digital devices. It can be as simple as unplugging for an hour before bed or dedicating a portion of your weekend to offline activities. The key is to find a Balance Act that works for you and enhances your overall well-being.

In conclusion, incorporating a digital detox into our routine is essential for maintaining mental and emotional wellness in a technology-driven world. By consciously stepping away from our devices, we can reclaim our attention, reduce stress, and improve our overall quality of life. Let’s embrace the power of unplugging and experience the myriad benefits it brings to our daily lives.

How to manage pending work
15
Sep
Tips

Tips to Manage Your Pending Work

Posted on by Daniela Pineda

It is not uncommon for work to accumulate and then it becomes  an endless list of pending tasks. It is worlds apart from getting done with your daily workload and feeling productive. Procrastinating allows projects to pile up and you feel like the to-do list only gets bigger..

This can become  a problem when larger processes or tasks begin to be delayed, or when other teammates or collaborators cannot complete their own tasks in a timely manner, thus affecting various parts of the work structure.

Here are some tips and ideas that will help you finish your pending work and be more productive.

How to get done with your pending work list

Prioritize tasks and solve the most difficult ones first

It is essential to prioritize the list of pending tasks and establish which ones require the most immediate attention. Try to dedicate your first working hours to these tasks and avoid procrastinating.

Accept your abilities and face challenges

Sometimes, we avoid tackling difficult tasks we believe “this is not the right time”, or perhaps those that are too complicated, or that require a learning process.  At other times, the opposite happens: certain tasks seem so simple that we simply forget about them, since they do not require our immediate attention.

Addressing these tasks as small or big challenges can make a great difference when it comes to forgetting a pending task or not.

Say no to multitasking

Some people mix the idea of ​​being highly productive with multitasking. Contrary to popular belief, addressing several tasks at the same time does not make processes easier or faster; in fact, it delays them and is not effective.

Perform one task at a time and always try to finish it before starting another, that way the workload will be managed effectively.

Avoid unnecessary social distractions

If you’re on task, it’s best to stay away from your phone’s notifications, from replying to work conversations, or other distractions. Turn off or put away your phone, and choose a different time to check messages that would otherwise delay you.

Learn to take breaks

You can take breaks during your working day; these should be short and allow you to disconnect for about 5 minutes. These are not 5 minutes so you can check your social networks, but to relax, to take a moment for yourself, and to be able to focus again on your work.

tips for safety at workplace
01
Sep
Social Responsibility

5 Safety Tips for the Workplace

Posted on by Daniela Pineda

Safety in the workplace must be constantly built and maintained. Safety is the responsibility of everyone at Optimus Steel and is not something we should take for granted.

Our plant is a facility where strategic planning, technological improvement, and efficient production work together to ensure all of our team members work and arrive home safely.  It is important to be able to recognize hazards with their associated levels of risk in order to prevent them. 

Prevention is important because:

  • Accidents  are avoided.
  • It gives everyone peace of mind, allowing people to function productively and efficiently.
  • It guarantees quality in our operations and production processes.

Tips to Improve Safety in the Workplace

Stay alert and always report risks

In your daily tasks, it is important to concentrate on your work without losing sight of the surrounding environment; you must stay alert and always aware of the activities around you in order to detect any possible risk, incident, problem, or factor that could result in a possible accident.

When detecting an incident, it is the responsibility of the team to report the event and not overlook it. It is important that you know the procedures and protocols in order to keep everyone safe.

Make sure your work environment is always clean and unobstructed

For safety purposes, and to make processes more efficient, work areas must remain orderly; this also implies that we must be alert to items on the ground that can cause anyone to trip and fall.

Avoid running inside the plant. Always walk, watching your steps, paying attention to where you are stepping, and where you are going. Always avoid having food or drinks on or near machinery, devices or electronics.

Never skip steps

All procedures in the plant are carried out according to protocols that build safety in each step. Processes have a specific sequence of steps. It is important to never skip or modify steps in established processes; avoiding rushing, or skipping steps in the sequence, which can lead to the creation of accidents.

Always wear your PPE

Personal Protective Equipment is designed to be your ally in safety while you are in certain operating areas of the plant. It is the last line of defense when a potential hazard is present. 

It is important to always make proper and full use of PPE, without discarding elements due to discomfort, as this could cause problems. The protective equipment cannot help to protect you if it is not worn properly.  

Always use machinery and tools correctly

Our plant processes involve melting scrap, at very high temperatures, to convert the scrap to molten metal. It is ultimately important to follow all procedures and use machinery, tools, and equipment, with care according to protocols during this process.

Keep the floors clean, removing unnecessary debris. Remember to stay well hydrated and aware of signs and symptoms indicating potential heat stress conditions.

steel industry in USA
01
Aug
Uncategorized

Reasons why steel is America’s backbone

Posted on by Daniela Pineda

Today, the steel industry represents one of the largest and fastest growing economic sectors in the United States. Without a doubt, ours is a solid industry built by men and women whose work strengthens the economy and seeks technological advances in order to always go further.

The origin of the steel industry in the United States

It was the Industrial Revolution that promoted the development of activities such as the steel industry throughout the world, and it was in the 19th century that a nascent steel industry began to gain strength in our country.

It is estimated that by 1880, steel production in the United States grew from 1.25 to 10 million tons, and by 1910, 24 million tons were produced domestically.

It should be noted that the production of steel has been with humanity for much longer, yet it was not until the modern era that steel production was industrialized and new technologies were developed.

Some fast facts about our country’s steel industry:

  • Currently, the industry is estimated to produce more than 106 million tons per year.
  • Most of the steel produced in the United States today comes from recycling, thus ensuring a sustainable industry.
  • The steel industry strengthens other sectors such as infrastructure, construction, car production, appliances, electronics, safety, healtcare and sustainable development.
  • 75% of the steel varieties available today have been technologically developed in the last 20 years. 
  • As of 2017, the steel industry produced more than 2 million jobs for Americans , both directly and indirectly.
  • Steel is a dynamic part of America’s economy, accounting for more than $520 billion in economic output. 
  • Since 1990, measures have been promoted to reduce carbon emissions in steel production with new, sustainable technologies being developed and implemented today.
  • Approximately 70,000,000 tons of steel are recycled every year.
Uncategorized

The Importance of Community Involvement and Employee Participation

Posted on by Edward Goettl

At Optimus Steel, we take pride in participating in various events that strengthen our internal culture and give back to the local community. Our team will be taking part in a fundraising event for the American Cancer Society called Relay for Life. Across more than 20 countries, Relay for Life will facilitate more than 5,000 events to support the continued fight against many types of cancer. The events are held at campus universities, across local communities, and via virtual fundraising platforms bridging the cap with supporters and survivors. The funds raised are used to improve cancer survival, decrease the incidence of cancer, and improve the quality of life for cancer patients and those who care for them.


A survivor’s lap at a Relay for Life event in Texas

In October of 1985, the American Cancer society and the pharmaceutical division of Imperial Chemical Industries (the creator of many cancer fighting drugs) partnered to establish October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Annually, there is a campaign to raise awareness of breast cancer risks, the value of screening, and early detection. The campaign helps to highlight treatment options available to women and men who are diagnosed with one of the many forms of breast cancer.


White House Illuminated pink in honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2017

Breast cancer touches the life of 1 in 8 women in the US, and we want to continue to take part in spreading the critical information on detection and prevention. We do also want to show support to those that are actively fighting, and to recognize, support, and celebrate the survivors.

We want to share an amazing personal story of fighting this disease from one of our Optimus Steel team members. Karen McBride Toohey found out in 2003, after self- detection of a lump, that she had cancer. She was devastated by the fact that something was going on in her body that she had no control over. She sought out a second opinion and headed to MD Anderson Treatment Center in Houston, Texas. Karen described her treatment and time there as phenomenal.


Karen has a family history of breast cancer and had lost an aunt to the disease. Gripped with the devastating truth, Karen proceeded with treatment and faced the fear of losing her hair. She knew she had to make the best of a pretty painful situation. She glammed up with large earrings, cute caps, and changing hair color to keep her spirits high and push herself to keep fighting.

Karen expresses how fortunate she was to have her mother and the rest of her family as a support system with her through this journey. She knows her faith in God carried her through the experience. She strongly encourages everyone to understand the importance for men and women to get checked out and receive annual exams. Karen is a warrior and is currently a fifteen-and-a-half-year survivor!

This month we celebrate Karen McBride Toohey. We are thankful for her courage and willingness to give back by pushing others to care for themselves and be diligent in regular self-checks. Karen thank you for encouraging us all in ways you may not even realize.

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