How walking meetings can reduce wasted time and boost your well-being

Most of us want to spend less time in meetings and more time outside.

I’ve found a simple hack that ticks both boxes. Even better: you can do it today, and you won’t need any time off work.

Here’s:
1️⃣ What it is
2️⃣ Why it works
3️⃣ How to do it

First, some context. Studies show that:

💡Most of us feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of meetings we’re asked to attend. And nearly half of the meetings we attend are viewed as a waste of time.

💡We want to spend more time outdoors. Specifically: studies show that most of us have a desire to increase our time in nature.

The monotony of back-to-back meetings contrasts sharply with the energising experience of being outside.

But it’s not just that these are in contrast. I think the two are linked.

The more frustrated we are by excessive, unproductive meetings, the stronger we feel the pull to get out of the office to recharge in the outdoors.

There’s plenty we can do to address both issues. But there’s a simple way to do both at the same time.

Here’s the hack:

1️⃣ What it is:

A walking meeting.

It’s just what it sounds like. A work meeting while walking outside instead of sitting in a meeting room or on a video call.

2️⃣ Why it works:

Walking meetings naturally focus the conversation – you have shorter and sharper discussions.

They come with visual markers of time, like reaching a halfway point, encouraging better time keeping. And when you get to your destination, the meeting naturally wraps up rather extending to fill the allotted time.

Walking can increase creative thinking by up to 60%. The side-by-side setup is also great for encouraging more open communication.

They also bring the mental and physical health benefits of light, outdoor exercise into your workday.

In short you typically feel stress: 📉 and mood: 📈

3️⃣ How to do it:

Pick the right meetings: walking meetings are great for regular, internal catchups (e.g. 1:1s), and less appropriate for client calls or high stakes conversations.

Remote or in person: they work equally well. Individuals can call in from different locations (as long as everyone is walking). If you’re doing it remotely: go audio-only.

Set an agenda: be clear about the purpose of the meeting so you stay on track.

Keep it small: this works best for two to three people.

Plan your route: choose a quiet path where you can focus and talk comfortably (bonus if it’s in nature, a park, or alongside water). Avoid windy spots if you’re doing it remotely.

Recap at the end: before wrapping up jot down key points in your notes app. Distribute these when you’re back at your desk.

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I love walking meetings. That said, they’re in no way a substitute for proper time away from work. Pair them up with proper breaks and I guarantee you’ll feel clearer, calmer, and more effective.

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