After years of trying to juggle being a single mum with wanting so desperately to develop my career (a hefty side order of evening study thrown in for good measure), it dawned upon me that whilst I thought I was doing well, juggling so many balls… actually I was putting myself under extreme amounts of pressure to the detriment of the things I had previously enjoyed.
I realised I was no longer making time for the things that, when everything else was stripped away, were the key pillars in my happiness and wellbeing. I decided from that point forward, after a period of faltering mental health and heightened anxiety, that it was time to change.
I reintroduced myself to my non-negotiables, started recognising and being honest with how I was feeling, and made a commitment to myself to ensure that my own wellbeing was firmly on the agenda. An opportunity presented itself to be part of the PE coaching team and from that point, my passion was ignited in encouraging others to recognise the key factors to their individual wellbeing.
“Take things one step at a time – don’t expect things to quickly return to normal. Let’s take an opportunity to recognise how these new ways of working can help us do things differently and perhaps even better than before.”
During a time when we have experienced so much change, so many new challenges have been presented to us and our individual awareness of how our feelings have changed day to day, minute by minute has increased, going back to the office will be a welcome change for some but for others will add to the anxiety mountain that perhaps has built up inside us. In order to ensure that we maintain sight of our energy levels and happiness I suggest paying attention to these 5 key things;
Prepare – How will you get to work? Who will be there? Understand the new safety measures in place, talk through what to expect with your line manager, and identify what you will need to bring with you to ensure your safety but also to feel comfortable and relaxed eg. packed lunch.
One step at a time – Take things one step at a time – don’t expect things to quickly return to normal. Let’s take an opportunity to recognise how these new ways of working can help us do things differently and perhaps even better than before.
Talk – Make sure that you are reaching out to your support network of colleagues. Spend time discussing how things feel with your line manager – this doesn’t need to be solely work-related. Check-ins will help us all to understand how we can support each other and stay connected.
Use your commute – Use the time you spend walking/traveling to and from work to practice mindfulness, set your mindset for the day, and recognise how you are feeling. Listen to your mind and body.
Gratitude – Celebrate the small wins, ask yourself at the end of each day ‘What have I done today that I am proud of?’