Improve Work Productivity -- Relax More!
- Jun 5, 2015
- 3 min read
Updated: Dec 14, 2025
Taking a few minutes to reflect on the importance of relaxing as I head out for a day of solitude and fishing at a world class trout stream in Idaho.
Improve Work Productivity -- Relax More!
Sometimes the best reminders don’t come from an office, a meeting, or a to-do list. They come from standing barefoot next to a river in the middle of Idaho.
Today, I’m at Sunbeam Hot Springs on the Salmon River, just outside of Stanley, Idaho. It’s an amazing place—and somehow, today, I have it all to myself. That almost never happens.
Why This Place Is So Special
Sunbeam Hot Springs sits right off the road, which makes it incredibly accessible. People stop here all the time after fly fishing, camping, or just passing through. Some come to soak. Others just dip their feet in and relax.
Here’s what makes it unforgettable:
The hot spring water is about 100°
The Salmon River, because of runoff, is about 45° and absolutely freezing
The contrast is dramatic—and unforgettable
I learned that the hard way.
I accidentally stepped into the hot water without thinking and nearly burned my feet. One second freezing. The next, boiling. Total chaos.
And honestly? That contrast is kind of the point.
Why I’m Really Here
I’m not here just to talk about hot springs or cold rivers.
I’m here because I want to encourage you to slow down.
To step away from work.To stop thinking about everything on your to-do list.To take time to relax and reset.
So many people are constantly pushing—always producing, always doing, always chasing the next thing. And while passion is a powerful driver, it also needs fuel.
Making Space to Refuel
Taking time to chill out isn’t a luxury. It’s necessary.
It’s how you:
Regain perspective
Restore energy
Protect your passion
Avoid burnout
The goal isn’t to escape responsibility.The goal is to come back stronger.
Takeaways
Passion needs fuel, not just effort
Rest and relaxation are part of high performance
Stepping away from work helps you show up better
You don’t have to do something big—small moments of calm matter
The world needs people who are energized, not exhausted
Summary
Improve Work Productivity - Relax!
So here’s my encouragement to you.
Ask yourself:What can you do today to slow down and recharge?
Get outside.Chill out.Do something that fuels your passion.
Because when you take care of yourself, you’re better able to give back—and the world needs more people like you to help make it a great place.
Alright. That’s it for now.See you soon.And trust me… that water is hot.
Tom Iselin
Rated One of America’s Best Board Retreat
and Strategic Planning Facilitators
About the Author
Tom Iselin is recognized as one of America’s leading authorities on high-performance nonprofits. He has built nine sector-leading nonprofits and two software companies, written six books, sits on multiple boards, and has been rated one of America’s Best Board Retreat and Strategic Planning Facilitators. His work on nonprofit strategy, board leadership, and culture has been featured on CNN, Nightline, and in Newsweek.
Tom is the president of First Things First, a firm specializing in board retreats, strategic planning services, fundraising strategy, and executive coaching for nonprofit CEOs.
Board Retreats & Strategic Planning
If you’re looking for a board retreat facilitator or strategic planning facilitator who has been in the trenches and understands real-world nonprofit challenges, Tom can help your board gain clarity, build alignment, and create an actionable plan that improves performance and impact. His sessions propel organizations to the next level of performance and impact . . . and they're fun!
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