The term “self care” can have a somewhat weird connotation in today’s society. But the premise of it is still important. It’s easy to get wrapped up in work and and forget to take time for yourself. However, being overworked doesn’t make for an efficient and clear-minded leader. According to Nabil El-Ghoroury, “a stressed out CEO is not going to be an efficient CEO.” Not taking time for your mental wellbeing amongst the stress of everyday life will only result in burning out and possibly shutting down. Not taking time for your mental wellbeing amongst the stress of everyday life will only result in burning out and possibly shutting down. Click To Tweet
According to Harvard Business Review, “rather than narrowly defining self-care as just physical health (which is an important piece of the equation), we need to pay attention to a wider set of criteria, including care of the mind, emotions, relationships, environment, time, and resources.” You have to make sure your whole workplace environment is healthy, but your personal life must be healthy as well for the sake of your personal health and happiness.
Setting aside time for self care shouldn’t be a burden or another task on a to-do list. It’s a way to unwind outside of work, make time for fun, decrease stress, and clear your mind.
Setting aside time for self care shouldn’t be a burden or another task on a to-do list. Click To Tweet
Here are some small, simple things you can incorporate into your work day or personal life to reduce stress and increase personal care:
- Clean up and organize your desk or living space
- Get enough sleep
- Avoid distractions for a few moments and enjoy the silence
- Listen to your favorite song
- Meditate on Scripture
- Read a few chapters of your favorite book
- Watch a movie
- Have a night out with some close friends or your family
- Make a healthy meal or go to a nice restaurant
- Take a bath or relaxing shower
- Get some fresh air
- Take time to celebrate the small victories
- Do some journaling
- Exercise
Whether it is a whole “treat yourself” day or a small act to give yourself a boost, it’s important to keep tabs on your mental health and know when it is time to add something new and refreshing into your routine. When you start feeling overwhelmed, make sure to take some time for yourself to unwind and relax to avoid burning out. This kind of self care will make sure you remain an efficient leader.
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