Better mental health in the workplace can help you feel better outside of work and throughout your day – here are some tips to achieve this.
- Plan A Stress-Free Start To Your Day
As tempting as it might be to lay in bed and hit snooze, you should think about taking a different approach. Try setting your alarm earlier so that you have a few minutes to think about and prepare for your day without feeling rushed or stressed. Getting up just 30 minutes earlier will give you time to enjoy a warm cup of coffee or tea while listening to soft music or relaxing outdoors. Giving yourself extra time allows you to get your day off on the right foot in a calm, stress-free way.
- Create A Relaxing Workspace
At work, you should take steps to create a calming space. Adding houseplants is a good option since it can make your work area feel more like home according to Clarity Clinic, a psychotherapist chicago il. Posters or photographs also can help personalize your space. Choose items that make you feel calm and relaxed or that help keep your mind in a good place.
- Record Your Accomplishments
Having a large to-do list can leave you feeling overwhelmed and stressed. One way to overcome this is by also keeping a list of your accomplishments. Start by making up a list of the top three things that you want to accomplish during the day. Once you achieve each item on your list, move it over to another list showing your accomplishments. That way, even if you don’t get to everything on your list, it is easier to see that you did actually get stuff done.
- Put On A Smile
Even though it sounds like it wouldn’t work, research shows that smiling can instantly make you feel better. When you are feeling stressed out, overworked, or tired, smile for approximately 10 seconds. By the time you are done, you will most likely be in a slightly better mood. The best part is, you can do this simple exercise anywhere for an instant lift.
- Try Eating Lunch Outdoors
As long as the weather cooperates, enjoying your lunch break outdoors can put you in a much better mood. Consider taking a short walk on your break, as well. If you find yourself in a slump in the middle of the morning, a quick walk to a nearby coffee shop will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to go. Even taking a quick break on a bench outside your building is a good way to rejuvenate your mind and shift your attitude.
- Reward Yourself
When you are working on challenging tasks, it can be difficult to stay motivated. One way to keep yourself on track is by giving yourself a reward when you are done. Make sure that it is something that you really enjoy so that it helps keep you motivated to get the work done. Whether you want to treat yourself to a special meal, relax in front of the TV, or buy something nice for yourself, bribing yourself with rewards is a great way to get difficult jobs done.
- Do Something Good For Another Person
One way to instantly improve your mental health is by doing something nice for someone else. If you notice one of your coworkers having trouble, give them a hand. You can also do this outside of work by helping out a family member or volunteering for a cause that you believe in.