Self-care is so essential to the evolution of truly celebrating one’s self—whatever that may look like. Having a full blown spa day, getting a mani and pedi combo, scheduling a HydraFacial or simply staying home in your pajamas all day watching sitcoms. Those are all really important self-care rituals that help promote health and positivity for your mind, body, and soul, however practicing self-care in the work place is just as important and deserves just as much attention.
Many of us probably work a standard 9 to 5 job or a job that requires us to be away from home that includes daily task that sometimes become stressful and overwhelming. Immersing ourselves into self-care tactics during work can alleviate some of those stresses as well as give us energy to get through the day. If you’re needing a little extra TLC during those work hours, here’s a list of self-care ideas to practice in the work place:
Comfort is Key
Maintaining a comfortable work environment is important to do when practicing self-care at work. You want to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible (don’t forget you are still on the clock) when working which in turn will prompt you to want to actually work and get things done. So if that means getting a stand up desk, placing a pillow in the seat of your chair, or bringing a small fan or heater—do just that to enhance your comfort.
Keep Your Desk Clean & Organized
Clutter is such a distraction. You misplace things, your mind is constantly racing, it’s just an all-around mess! Keeping your desk area clean and organized helps promote a sense of actually enjoying being at your desk which in turn will make you feel more productive to work. It may sound silly, but organization and the presence of your atmosphere does play a role in maintaining your self-care while working.
Step Away From the Computer Every Once in a While
Staring at a computer screen for long periods of time can be extremely hard on your eyes. Taking small breaks away from your computer to either complete other handwritten task or even a restroom or snack break is beneficial in not only giving your eyes a break, but your mind as well.
Look How You Want to Feel
We’ve all heard the saying “when you look good, you feel good,” and it’s absolutely true. We all want to feel good, so when you look exactly how you want to feel, it’s reflected in your work. Dressing the part truly plays a vital role in the work you produce.
Create a Motivating Playlist
Music is the universal language of mankind. There’s music for everything we’re feeling—happy, sad, angry, resentful, joyful. We use it as an escape as well as relaxation. Making your own inspirational playlist full of your favorite songs and artist will instantly give you not only something to listen to throughout your workday, but something to look forward to each day as well. An upbeat and inspirational playlist is sure to get you productive and excited to work!
Take Breaks
Taking a break to give our mind time to process and retain information is essential in anything we do. Being productive and hardworking requires a lot of energy and time, so occasionally, let your mind rest and take a 5-10 minute break before resuming your work. Don’t forget you’re human, we all need breaks every once in a while.
Surround Yourself with Positivity
You’d be surprised how tranquil your mind is when you surround yourself with positivity. Promoting positive conversations, positive encounters with coworkers, and positivity all around will greatly contribute to self-care in the work place. Making sure you don’t mix business with pleasure or develop superficial work relationships, and remain professional while working will in turn promote the positivity and patience it takes to work a 9 to 5.
