Every day at work is challenging. Another competitive day awaits you as soon as you open your eyes. It’s great to be productive and give your all at work. However, it is also a long and exhausting day. Since you enjoy your job, you are oblivious to how exhausting your actions can be. The tendency is that when you’re on your way home, that’s the only time you feel worn down. It is natural to feel tired, no matter how much love and dedication you have for work.
One of the most important things to remember is that you should prioritise your own health above all else. If you allow yourself to reach its limits, not only will your health suffer, but so will your job. So, if you care about your goals and tasks at work, you should also care about your own well-being. You need your work, and your work needs you. To maintain a mutual relationship with your work, you must first ensure that you are in the best possible condition to connect with it.
Here are some self-care reminders for employees and employers
For employers:
1. Give flexible work schedules
Flexible work schedules should be made available to your employees so that they can build a sense of a balanced work life. Allowing them to work on a flexible schedule is another way to reduce the risk of job burnout and anxiety. When there is an urgent need, you can notify them ahead of time that they will be needed more than usual.
2. Give recognition to your employees
Realising that employees have always been dedicated and loyal to their jobs, it is important to recognise them for all of the hardships they have encountered. Thanking them and acknowledging the fruits of their labor can significantly improve their mental health and self-esteem. You can also show your appreciation by taking them out for lunch/dinner or providing coffee and drinks during their break at work.
3. Encourage them regarding health and wellness
It’s a good idea to remind your employees to stay healthy every now and then. Encourage them to eat on time and participate in activities that will benefit their physical and mental health. You can also help them by providing a space at the office where they can workout. They are sometimes too busy to think about their health, so it is important to advise them not to overwork and still care for their well-being.
4. Provide an ergonomic workplace
An ergonomic workplace corresponds to a desirable work environment with lesser risk to accidents and can provide employees with comfort while working. Other benefits include better posture, lesser eye swells and headaches. Creating an ergonomic environment will also improve employee concentration and productivity.
5. Maintain a good work environment
Connect with your employees and serve as a role model for a positive work environment. Always practice equality and encourage them to treat one another as teammates rather than competitors.
For employees:
1. Have a balanced work life
Your life is not solely and entirely focused on work; you also have a life outside of work. Bond with people that you love, such as family and friends, spend quality time with yourself, pursue your interests, and make yourself happy without thinking about work. You are already taking care of yourself by supplying yourself with positivity.
2. Have enough sleep and rest
Rest and sleep refuels up your brain and body. It also improves your mood the next day and can provide you with a positive outlook for the rest of the day. Sleep deprivation can be a reason for such negativities such as unfavourable attitude at work, accidents, and slacking off.
3. Eat a full meal per day
If you spent too much energy, you must replenish it. Eating a full meal every day will not only provide you with the nutrients you require, but it will also make you feel prepared for another battle. Consume nutritious foods such as vegetables and fruits as well. It’s not a bad idea to indulge in your cravings once in a while, but you should still be aware of your limitations. Also, stay hydrated and keep track of how much water you drink. As they say, a happy life comes from a happy tummy.
4. Exercise
Exercising not only helps your muscles and bones, but it also helps improve your emotional and mental health. Beginning your day with a workout can provide numerous health benefits. Spending a few minutes exercising won’t hurt, but it is a form of self-love.
5. Take it easy on yourself
Keep in mind that you have your own limitations. You, too, are human, and while work can be difficult at times, take a break, breathe, and relax. Forcing yourself will have a negative impact on your mental health and may even result in worse outcomes. If you are in need, you can turn to your colleagues for assistance.
Self-care and love are more important than they appear. So, don’t forget about yourself, because you’re important, too.