Five ways to practice self-care during your work day

Now that the lines between work and home life have become somewhat blurred it’s becoming increasingly harder to practice self-care. I used to enjoy the divide between being in the office and coming home. It provided me the separation I needed to create a work-life balance and ensure that I make time to practice self-care. Now, however, I have to be intentional about putting boundaries and making time for myself. One way of doing this is by including acts of self-care in your work day and not just leaving it for the weekend.

These practices will help you relax and recharge. Let’s take a look at them below.

1. Be on top of your game

In my self care journey and as someone who struggles with their mental health, I have realised that being organised goes a long way in reducing stress and anxiety. 

During your work day, write a to-do list scheduling the more difficult tasks when you’re your most productive. 

If you have been assigned a task by your boss, get to it as soon as possible and revert to them on your progress. Don’t wait to be asked. Nobody likes to have their boss breathing down their neck.

Simply put, find ways to make your work day simpler and more efficient.

2. Actually take your lunch break

It’s very easy not to take your lunch break saying “I’ve got too much to do” or “I’ve a deadline to meet”. Even though you have a seemingly never ending to-do list, your brain needs a break every so often. You need to step away from your desk, breath in some fresh air, soak in the sun and stretch your desk. 

So when it’s time for your lunch break, stop what you’re doing and actually leave your desk. I noticed that when I do this, when I come back to my desk, I am more productive and creative than before lunch.

3. Ensure you have a suitable equipment

Whether it’s an ergonomic chair, better lighting, a quieter place to work, faster computer, ensure that you have all the tools you need to work more efficiently. Just as you ensure that you have a comfortable bed, nice pillows and food that you actually like eating, your work tools should also meet the mark and enable you to stay healthy and happy as you work.

4. Check-in with your boss

Make it a point to check in with your boss from time to time. Speak to them about how you’re managing at work and voice any concerns you might have. Ask them to give you feedback on your work and point out where you could improve. This will help you stay on top of your game, see above, so that you don’t get any surprises come appraisal time.

5. Form valuable work friendships

It’s nice having someone to talk to. We’re social beings after all. Even as you become acquainted with your colleagues, if you click with someone, get to know them on a more personal level. They’ll be a great sounding board for when you need ideas on a project, to let out frustrations and, you have someone to go on your lunch break with.