It’s that time of year again. Heading into the silly season, our social commitments are rapidly increasing and the things we need to do before the year is over start to become more urgent. With this in mind, it’s important to recharge so we’ve got the energy to see out the rest of the year and spring into 2022 feeling relaxed and ready!
Exercise
It’s reported that exercise can increase happiness and energy levels as well as improve brain health and memory. A good workout will help you sleep better at night too. The recommendation is to try to exercise for 30 minutes at a medium intensity each day.
Keep the balance
It’s important to balance fulfilling your work commitments and allocating personal time so you have a chance to unwind and recharge. If you are working from home, planning ahead and having a clear ‘sign off’ time helps maintain that work-life balance. If you do need to log on later, I suggest allowing yourself to have a break first then time-blocking your work and being clear about what you want to achieve. Being focused will help you be more productive!
Be mindful and present
Paying attention to the sights and sounds and feeling the sensations within your body can have a meditative effect and help you feel relaxed. Activities to practice mindfulness can include meditation or simply standing at the park and paying attention to all your senses. You can also turn a task that is often done mindlessly into an opportunity to practice mindfulness. For example, by tuning in to all the sensations when brushing your teeth each morning.
Invest in a hobby
Take up that new hobby you always wanted to try or revisit a
past hobby that you enjoyed. This may seem counter-intuitive, especially when
you don’t have a lot of time on your hands. However, doing things that spark
joy can help you feel energised, therefore allowing you to be more productive
with your time. Try managing your energy (rather than your time) and see what
difference it makes!
Make time for yourself
Even if it’s just 10 minutes to have a cuppa or go for a walk
around the block, you’ll be amazed by what a little bit of self-care can do for
your mood. Better yet, book yourself in for a massage – just don’t make the
mistake I did by selecting a remedial rather than a relaxation massage!
It’s ok to say no
If there is a social event that you simply cannot
miss, recognise when you are tired and can longer engage in a fun or meaningful
way then make your exit. When it comes to work, communicate openly to
understand what the priorities are, which task or deadline needs urgent
attention and which can wait until later.
I hope you invest the time to recharge. Who knows what 2022 will bring but you will be ready to tackle the new year ahead!
As always, please let us know if there are any topics you would love us to look into or you have any queries or feedback. You can reach us at marketing@hoban.com.au.
Phuong Ong
