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Wellbeing

The importance of workplace wellbeing

Many perceive you as being some sort of hero if you are incredibly busy and have no time for hobbies, friends, family or any kind of personal life outside of work. The business community raises you up on a pedestal and you are portrayed as a role model. Well, until lately, that is. Finally, mental and physical health are recognised as factors of our general well-being that affect our productivity and longevity in the workplace.

It’s no small feat to be in a leadership position in a business or run your own. It is important to be a healthy example for those who want to follow in your footsteps. We need to make sure to keep an eye on our mental and physical health and try to maintain a healthy balance between work and our personal lives.

Working too much can lead to ignoring other important aspects of your life such as family, friends and hobbies which can make you feel anxious, isolated, ill more often than normal and myriad other things. Making time for other things in your life is important, but self-care is just as important to keep your body and mind in peak condition.

Overhead shot of a person's hands, typing on a laptop with a cup of tea and a plate of fruit on the table.
Photo by Rawpexel on Pexels

This doesn’t mean that you should take a week off to read and attend yoga retreats (although this would be amazing), it can be as simple as dedicating 30 minutes a day to yourself, to  focus on something that calms your mind, and brings you peace. For me, it’s the time I spend listening to podcasts in my car on the way to the office, a friend of mine likes taking long bubble baths, others like to take 30 minutes a day to read or to exercise. It’s different for everyone.

And while taking some proper time off for a holiday doesn’t always mean you can completely leave your business alone, there are things you can do to ensure business matters don’t intrude on your relaxation. Remember to be present in everything you do and, when it’s convenient, set aside a short block of time each day to check your emails and address whatever needs your attention, then return to your holiday. You need your mind rest and catch up with friends and family. It rejuvenates the mind and body.

In addition to striking a balance and taking some time out, make sure that you add structure to your workday. It’s easy to get stuck in and never leave your desk, which is an energy sucker.

Some tips to structure your workday:

  • Get up and stretch your legs often. Not only is it good to clock some steps on your smartwatch, it’s good for blood circulation and clears your head.
  • Take breaks. This goes hand in hand with stretching your legs. Take a walk around the office or if possible, outside. Get your mind off work for a couple of minutes. 
  • Drink water. The easiest way to stay hydrated is to have a filled water bottle on your desk. Water is good for a healthy digestive system; skin and you think clearer when you’re hydrated.
  • Eat. I know this sounds obvious, but many of us get so busy that we forget to eat and then reach for junk food and then face the famous afternoon slump. Pack a healthy lunch and snacks to sustain your energy throughout the day.
  • Stay away from caffeine. A cup of coffee or two a day is fine, but more than that will have your nerves frazzled and your brain cloudy. The same goes for energy drinks. Stick to water, decaffeinated tea or coffee and the like.
  • Turn off your social media notifications. I can’t stress this enough. Social media notifications are distracting and break your focus. You will get through your work faster without the constant interruptions and be more productive. It’s one of my biggest time-saving tips.
  • Clock off. Set a time to stop working every day and do something else. It’s important to experience other things besides work in order to be creative and be more productive at work.
Shallow focus shot of several women in a yoga class.
Photo by Bruce Mars on Unsplash

Working smarter, not harder is key to start finding a balance. It’s imperative for your overall well-being and to leading a healthier, more well-rounded life. It’s not about the big changes, but rather the small ones we make that will get us closer to it.

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