TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF
Life can be overwhelming. Stress and anxiety can so easily creep in, impacting everything from how we engage with our loved ones to the ways in which we tackle an ever-growing list of responsibilities. It can be hard to cope, to know what to do first, to function.
There is a saying that you cannot take care of others until you take care of yourself. This is true of our work lives as well. Prioritizing your own needs, especially during challenging times, is critical to improving your well-being and productivity. So is striking a positive work-life balance.
Now, take the deepest breath you’ve taken all week, and incorporate some of these self-care tips into your day:
Get ready
One of the best ways to manage through chaos is to anchor yourself in routine. Even if you work from home and don’t have any Zoom meetings scheduled, get yourself ready for the day. Take a shower, brush your teeth, get dressed. A morning routine can have a profound impact on your day, and it’s simpler than you think!
Go outside
Take a walk. Look at a tree. Hug the tree if you feel so inclined. Time in nature can improve memory, reduce stress, boost energy, and increase happiness. It’s also a benefit to your work life in that being outside may foster creativity, encourage focus, and enhance productivity.
Write in a journal
Get the thoughts burdening your mind out of your head and onto the page. I love writing as a way to release whatever range of emotions I may be feeling. No one needs to read what you’ve written when you’re finished, not even you. Morning can be a particularly useful time to write and may offer clarity and comfort in the day ahead.
Exercise
Exercise is not just about the physical benefits, though those are certainly valuable. Exercise can have a positive impact on our mental well-being, providing energy throughout the day and better sleep at night, reducing anxiety, and building resilience.
Make a list
We know all too well that just because you’re not feeling your best doesn’t mean that your task list will take care of itself. Add to your to do list throughout the day knowing you will get to it later. Similar to writing in a journal, you can get these things out of your head without the risk of losing track of them.
Spend time with loved ones
My love language is quality time. It turns out that this has such a positive impact on our health and well-being as spending time with your loved ones can help you cope with stress, boost your self esteem, promote longevity, and much more. And as much as you need your loved ones to be there for you, remember to be there for them, too. Be present, listen, and ask questions.
Schedule time for social media and news
For the love of all things good, take a break from social media! No doom scrolling. No mindlessly tapping through stories. If social media is part of your job description, be super mindful about when and how you use it. A great way to avoid tapping away on Instagram and Facebook specifically is to use the Meta Business Suite. This tool will ensure you’re only seeing your business content and interactions specifically related to work. It will also help prevent the temptation to go down the rabbit hole. Take the same approach toward news consumption. Schedule time for when you will read/watch the news and choose more traditional channels (i.e. not social media). I would also recommend not tuning in when you first wake up — give yourself a little time to enjoy the day first.
Ask for help
Therapy has been a game changer for every aspect of my life, including work. While working with a therapist may not be accessible for everyone, it is important to understand that it is absolutely okay to ask for help. Your friends, partner, family, and even colleagues can be an incredible resource when you’re feeling stuck.
And above all, give yourself grace! As countless meditation guides will tell you, notice your thoughts without judgment, express gratitude, and then let it go.
—RB
