“ Harvard research has shown that just one minute of mindfulness can reduce your body ’ s stress response by 30 %.”
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The dual toll The relentless pace of work-life integration amplified by constant distraction leads to a range of mental and physical health challenges . According to the 2023 State of the Global Workplace Report , 44 % of employees experience daily stress . And EAs , with your high-stakes roles , are often disproportionately affected .
Chronic stress and distraction are linked to six of the leading causes of death , including heart disease and diabetes . And in 2023 , a study conducted by Allianz Australia found that 41 % of employees were contemplating quitting their jobs within the next six to 12 months because of stress , burnout and workplace pressures .
Stress : The silent killer Stress is more than just a feeling of discomfort . Many among us try to live with it , believing we can handle the pressure . But the more we ignore it , the more it piles up . And it ’ s not only unpleasant , it ’ s lethal .
According to studies , as many as 90 % of doctor visits are related to stress . It is the leading cause of burnout , illness and even death in the workplace . Now , let that sink in … Most of our health problems can be traced back to stress . Our perceived ability to cope with stress is like putting a Band-Aid over a broken dam . Without resolving the root cause , pressure increases and sets the scene for much more serious conditions later on .
Burnout is more than just fatigue – it ’ s a step towards considerable health risks . It has been associated with heightened levels of heart disease , stroke and even sudden death . The World Health Organisation recognises and classifies burnout as an occupational phenomenon . And did you know burnout and disengagement in roles like yours can have massive repercussions ? Right through teams and their executives too ? Tasks are dropped through the net and communication collapses , along with overall morale . Addressing such challenges ceases to be an issue of personal responsibility ; it becomes a professional imperative .
Ask yourself whether you ’ ve felt burned out in the past year ? If the answer is yes , you ’ re not alone . Most people are trying to cope with stress and burnout , often without realising the long-term dangers until it ’ s too late . The distraction-stress cycle is not only exhausting – it ’ s a time bomb waiting to go off . Breaking this cycle is essential for your productivity , health , and wellbeing , as well as the success of the teams and executives you support .
Mindfulness is no longer just a buzzword It ’ s a scientifically validated tool for improving mental clarity , reducing stress and enhancing productivity . It activates the parasympathetic nervous system , which lowers cortisol levels and calms the body . Studies show that even one minute of mindfulness can reduce cortisol by up to 20 %!
“ Harvard research has shown that just one minute of mindfulness can reduce your body ’ s stress response by 30 %.”
24 Executive PA | Summer Issue 2025