Every October, Mental Health Month rolls around, giving us a chance to reflect on our overall personal wellbeing. It’s a time to think about the juggling act between our work and personal lives and how it’s affecting our happiness and mental health.
In our fast-paced world today, getting that perfect work-life balance can often feel out of reach. With so many demands on our time, and thanks to technology, accessing our work is only a click away.
But let’s start with a simple reality check: acknowledge that this is the world we live in. Once you’re aware of this, it’s time to set some boundaries to carve out space in your life. This is where you invest in your interests, hang out with the people who mean a lot to you, and genuinely do something just for you. The benefits of this are undeniable.
Studies show that investing in these things doesn’t just boost your productivity, it also makes your personal life better. That’s a win-win for your overall happiness. It’s heartening to see that many employers are recognising the importance of employee wellbeing and encouraging their staff to put wellbeing front and centre. Maybe it’s time you did the same for yourself?
Now, what keeps you feeling well? That’s a unique recipe for each of us. If you haven’t thought about it yet, there’s no better time than the present. Consider what helps you in terms of staying healthy and happy – not just physically, but emotionally and mentally too.
Work is a big slice of our lives, but finding a way to blend it in to complement the rest of your life is key to staying well and keeping your relationships in check.
Here are some helpful tips to help you protect your time and strike that balance that works for you:
- Take a breather: Don’t wait for the next public holiday or your annual leave. You’ve got some leave up your sleeve, so use it to recharge. Committing to taking time off is like telling the world that you’re putting yourself first, and prioritising what truly matters to you.
- Mini-breaks during the day: Throw in some mini-breaks while you’re working. Go for a walk in the sunshine, make yourself a cuppa, or just take some deep breaths. If aren’t great at this, set a reminder, or ask a work mate to remind you.
- Tame the tech: Consider hitting pause on those work emails and calls after hours. Think about going “offline” when you’re not at the office, only responding to emergencies. Taking control of your availability sets some much-needed boundaries, and can put into perspective what might be overlooked if work is always your priority.
- Cherish your downtime: Make a list of what makes you happy and why you work in the first place. Stick it somewhere visible as a reminder. Regularly looking at it helps you keep your priorities straight.
At OzHelp, we’re all about taking care of ourselves and our staff, and making sure work plays nicely with the rest of our lives. As you think about your priorities this month, make time for the stuff and people that truly matter. This year’s Mental Health Month theme is “we all have a role to play.” Think about what role you can play this October – you might just inspire others to do the same.