World Mental Health Day puts well-being in the workplace in our thoughts. Mental health isn’t straight forward to talk about. But, with growing awareness it’s becoming an easier conversation to have where we can share our experiences.
With a working from home, flexible-work model – which is underpinned by the latest technology – we try to be as open as we can with our consultants to ensure they’re able to juggle their work and life commitments. However, when we talk to clients and their employees we often find that outdated technology is having a real negative impact on employee well-being; hindering rather than enabling everyone’s day. Technology plays a small part in our overall well-being at work, but it is a contributor that shouldn’t be underestimated. If used correctly it can be transformative – making our lives easier and giving us time back.
To support our commitment to ‘keeping well at work’, we asked our consultants for tips on what they’ve learned from their work experiences and what they do to stay well. Here’s what they had to say:
- I retreat into the world of fiction when I’m stressed. I completely back away from everything, take an hour to read (which I love) and once I’m calm I go back to what was stressing me out with a clear head and I apply logic. I look at the big picture/goal, prioritise, plan and execute it. This works for me whether it’s work or personal stress…
- Use to-do-lists. Don’t get stressed if everything doesn’t get done but create a new one at the end of the working day. I always try to remember that tomorrow is a new day.
- Always on technology doesn’t mean that you should always be working. Being able to access your work at any hour gives you the freedom to work the hours you choose, not be available every hour to work.
- Don’t sweat the small stuff. There’s no point in getting stressed out over little things as you need to save your energy for the big things.
- Working too many time zones leads to physical then mental burn out. If you’re working globally carve out times that keep you and your body clock healthy – tell people when you’re available, stay strong and stick to it!
- Keeping to a sleep routine and walking for an hour every morning helps me to stay well. And, if I get stressed I go and pound the streets for a bit.
- We have so much new stuff to learn at work it can become very stressful. I’ve found creating ‘my pace’ learning packages for learners helps to make coping with change much easier. And, I apply this approach in my own work life too, so I don’t become overwhelmed.
We can’t emphasise enough the importance of keeping well at work and in life. Mental health can affect anyone – directly or indirectly – at any time. Talking to someone or getting support is the first step that will help.
