One Change to Your Workday Routine
Can Boost Your Productivity

I know all about the 3 PM slump. That period a few hours after lunch when your energy drops and you have a problem staying focused. This is the time many of my coworkers make their last Starbucks run of the day. I feel you.

A few years ago I replaced that caffeine run with a walk. Yes, a walk around the building if the weather was nice. Or around the lobby or down the stairs if it was rainy, snowing or super cold. I got a few of my colleagues interested in doing the same thing and it was nice to have a little company for 15 or 20 minutes two or three times per week to get our walk-on.

I left that job a few years later, but I recently saw one of my former colleagues at an industry event. As we chatted I asked whether they were still doing the afternoon walk. I was so happy when she told me that there were still 3 of them going out at least once and usually twice per week to get a little afternoon walking delight.

I asked her why they had stuck it out after all this time. Immediately she responded that they all felt more energetic and got more done on the days they walked. But then she told me they all hated changing into their trainers because then everyone at the office knew they were going out walking. Not that there is anything wrong with coworkers knowing, but they wanted to be less conspicuous, if possible. She wondered if I had any ideas to help them.

I had to let her in on my secret walking shoes for looking good but being comfortable at the same time. They’re called ‘Flat Out of Heels.’ I purchased my first pair using a special coupon (you can get one too at FlatOutOfHeels.com) and I have to say they were one of the best buys I’ve ever made! They are cute, stylish flat shoes with trendy red bottoms. If you check out the website you’ll see lots of selection and pretty reasonable prices, too.

The best thing about Flat Out of Heels shoes is you can slip them on and take a short walk without any of your nosey coworkers being aware that you’re going for that brisk power walk. So I told my girl to get to the website and get hers so she can get her walk on in style.

I keep mine in my rolling briefcase or my leather backpack-purse so they are available if I have to walk further than a block in city traffic or if I have to ride the subway or bus. And of course, for changing out of the heels for a short mid-afternoon power walk.

What are your go-to options for footwear when walking at work?