How often do you or your colleagues come to work feeling stressed, tired, or irritable? Despite the importance of wellbeing, many people struggle to prioritise it amid the demands of our fast-paced lives.
Our modern world is relentless. We’re constantly on the move, driven by technology, financial pressures, and family responsibilities. If you’re like me, you might be navigating the challenges of raising teenagers, which brings its own set of stresses. Sleep often eludes us, with minds racing late into the night or being disrupted by the 3 a.m. wake-up call that seems to come from nowhere.
As a former athlete, I understood the critical role that mental and physical readiness played in my performance. I was fortunate to have a robust support network, ensuring I was at my best every time I stepped onto the netball court. In the professional world, however, we don’t always have that same support system. The responsibility for our wellbeing rests squarely on our shoulders.
But how many of us can honestly say we come to work physically and mentally thriving? Through my work with the Human Synergistics tool, it’s clear that well-being often takes a backseat. Imagine how different your workday could be if you arrived feeling happy, resilient, fully engaged, and ready to support your team and achieve your professional goals.
To reach this level of wellbeing, we must bring the best version of ourselves to work every day, and that begins with making wellbeing our number one priority. What does that look like for you? It might differ for everyone, but here are some simple steps I’ve introduced into my life:
- Stop and Take Time for Yourself: My personal motto is – Stop, Breathe & Be. Sometimes, just taking a moment to pause can make all the difference.
- Cultivate Self-Awareness: Regularly check in with yourself. Write down how you’re feeling both mentally and physically. Understanding your current state is the first step toward improvement.
- Implement Small Wellbeing Habits: What’s one tiny habit you can introduce into your life today? Keep it small and manageable, unlike those big New Year’s resolutions that often fall by the wayside.
- Be Kind to Yourself: Self-compassion is crucial. We all have tough days, and that’s okay.
Your wellbeing is the foundation of your success, both personally and professionally. By making it your number one priority, you’re not just benefiting yourself—you’re setting an example for your colleagues and creating a more positive, productive work environment.
Until next time, remember to put yourself first.
