posted 2nd October 2024
When I first heard the phrase “wellbeing in the workplace,” I used to think…
“Yes, I hear that, but it won’t work for me because…”
And then the list of reasons would start:
“I work long hours.”
“I’m already up early enough.”
“My commute is at least three hours a day.”
“I have a big meeting with the directors next week, and I need to focus on that.”
I could go on, but I’m sure many of you have heard these reasons—or even feel the same way.
It’s never just the eight-hour meeting on the day itself; it’s the weeks and months of preparation that lead up to it.
If I told you that making small changes could significantly improve your short- and long-term mental and physical health, you might not take me seriously. It might not feel like a priority.
Honestly, I wish I had made it one.
I’ve come to understand the consequences of not putting my wellbeing first—and the power of consciously choosing to lead a healthier life.
When the pressure is on at work, give yourself just 10 minutes in the morning to make breakfast at home—a balanced meal with protein, carbs, and vegetables.
Whole foods. Real foods.
This will fuel your body and mind for the day ahead—especially on those long meeting days when lunch might just be pastries and sandwiches.
Take a piece of fruit with you. I’m guilty of letting mine languish at the bottom of my bag while I reached for processed or low-sugar snacks and drinks.
Take all the bathroom breaks you can, even if you don’t really need to go. Use these moments to move your body, to shift your energy.
Maybe the bathroom break is your cue to drink water—to hydrate both mind and body.
Use whatever small prompts help you bring balance into your day. The more often you use them, the more effective they become.
Repetition builds habit—just like building muscle at the gym. It’s not one day of effort that creates results; it’s the consistent preparation and persistence over time.
That’s how true strength is built.
It builds resilience.
Practical Tips to Start Small and Build Momentum:
Pick just one small habit to focus on each week, like drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning or taking a short walk during your lunch break.
Use reminders on your phone or sticky notes in visible places to nudge you toward these actions.
Celebrate small wins—each positive choice, no matter how small, is progress.
Be kind to yourself on days when it feels hard; habit-building is a journey, not a sprint.
Invite a colleague or friend to join you for accountability and motivation.
By starting with manageable steps and building gradually, you create a sustainable foundation for wellbeing that supports you through busy, stressful times—and beyond.
