We can all get caught up in the day…meetings, calls, texts, emails and the myriad of other workday demands that pile up quickly and can create unwanted stress.
Take the time to review our tips for de-stressing your day. Here’s to making a happier you!
- Get a head start—Leave home at least 30 minutes earlier than normal. Studies show that the less rushed you feel in the morning, the less stressed you’ll be for the rest of the day.
- Eat—Fueling your brain with nutritious foods is a good way to reduce hunger and ward of the “hangries!” Healthy nonperishable snacks are always a good bet for satisfying late-afternoon hunger pangs without making you feel too full. Keep protein bars, dried fruit, and nuts or pretzels in your desk for those times you just need to quell the crave.
- Give yourself props—Take the time to give yourself proper praise now and again. For those times when you complete a big goal or pass a milestone, give a quick cheer for YOU.
- Take 10—Taking just 10 minutes during your busy workday to close your door and enjoy the silence can make all the difference in your mood. Also consider 10 minutes of meditation (there are lots of meditation apps available) or a walk outside in the sun (hello, vitamin D!).
- Manage communications—Incoming communications can be overwhelming on their own—considering all the emails, texts, IMs and meeting requests a person gets in a day. Cut back time spent responding to digital messages. For example, don’t waste a message simply acknowledging receipt of an email or pick up the phone if confusing topics can be handled swiftly with a quick chat.
- Enjoy your own personal 7th-inning stretch—This is especially important if you have a sedentary job. Get up and walk around your office or take a few minutes to lift your legs up and stretch them for 30 seconds at a time. Stretch your arms while you are at it by extending them above your head and pulling each wrist to its opposite side. Stretch for as long as it takes to reset your body and your brain.
- Socialize—That’s right…take time to be social! All work and no play makes anyone a dull (and stressful) individual. Just take a few minutes to socialize and talk about anything but work—such as upcoming vacations, kids’ events or outside adventures.
Just a few minutes a day can help you de-stress and enjoy life before, during and after work!