We can all get caught up in the day…meetings, calls, texts, emails, and the myriad of other workday demands that pile up quickly and can create unwanted stress. Take the time to review our tips to de-stress your workday. Here’s to making a happier you!
- Get a head start—Leave home at least 30 minutes earlier than normal. Studies show that the less rushed you feel in the morning, the less stressed you’ll be for the rest of the day.
- Eat—Fueling your brain with nutritious foods is a good way to reduce hunger and ward off the “hangries!” Healthy nonperishable snacks are always a good bet for satisfying late-afternoon hunger pangs without making you feel too full. Keeping protein bars, dried fruit, and nuts or pretzels at your desk can help you de-stress your workday by maintaining energy and focus throughout the afternoon.
- Give yourself props—Take the time to give yourself proper praise now and again. For those times when you complete a big goal or pass a milestone, give a quick cheer for YOU.
- Take 10—Taking just 10 minutes during your busy workday to close your door and enjoy the silence can make all the difference in your mood. Also consider 10 minutes of meditation (there are lots of meditation apps available) or a walk outside in the sun (hello, vitamin D!).
- Manage communications—Incoming communications can be overwhelming on their own—considering all the emails, texts, IMs, and meeting requests a person gets in a day. Cutting back time spent responding to digital messages is a key way to de-stress your workday. For example, don’t waste a message simply acknowledging receipt of an email, or pick up the phone if confusing topics can be handled swiftly with a quick chat.
- Enjoy your own personal 7th-inning stretch—This is especially important if you have a sedentary job. Get up and walk around your office or take a few minutes to lift your legs up and stretch them for 30 seconds at a time. Stretch your arms while you are at it by extending them above your head and pulling each wrist to its opposite side. Incorporating these simple moves can help you de-stress your workday, reset your body, and refresh your brain for better focus and productivity.
- Socialize—That’s right…take time to be social! All work and no play makes anyone a dull (and stressful) individual. Just take a few minutes to socialize and talk about anything but work—such as upcoming vacations, kids’ events or outside adventures.
Just a few minutes a day with guidance from Steven M. Ellard, CPA can help you de-stress and enjoy life before, during, and after work!