March 23rd, 2020, and it’s fair to say that the way we knew our world and working environments changed quite drastically. No longer ‘required’ to be in the office for many, we found ourselves living, eating, sleeping, and working from home.
If, like me, you noticed the social media advice, it was very quick to give us tips on how we should lead our new daily routine. Take regular breaks, drink lots of water, start and end your day with a walk, walk in the afternoon etc.
How many of you are still doing any of it?
Today, the working environment is still a milestone from where it once was – full working from home, hybrid or office based. I returned last week from an amazing couple of days in the Lake District but as I left the hotel, I turned to my colleague and said, “This is the first time I’ve been outside since I arrived on Tuesday evening!” It was now early Thursday night!
As someone who thrives on being outdoors and physical activity to get the best out of me, it led me to start thinking how many people were getting caught up with work, emails, planning, kids, after school activities etc. My point being here, forgetting about your own health.
As a wise old man once said to me, “Your health is your wealth,” I felt the need to put out this gentle reminder. Your to-do lists, strategy plans etc will always be there; your health and mental well-being is down to you. There is no one there gently reminding you to take breaks, workout, have some head space (unless you have a coach).
So, the long and the short of this post …. schedule time for you into your daily routine, whatever that may look like – get up and leave the desk, go outside, exercise, allow yourself time during the day to switch off. You are important and you need to look after you.