Can you believe this decade is almost over? 2019 was filled with many blessings and successes for me this past year. As I’m writing this article, I’m getting ready to finish up work for the year and take a much needed vacation. Ten whole days of doing absolutely whatever I want, and hopefully, not picking up any work during those two weeks off.
The recruiting industry can be hustle and bustle throughout the year and I wonder how many other people like me forget about taking care of themselves. I set some New Year’s resolutions for myself to take more time off to do things I enjoy. I don’t want work to absorb me 24/7. I want to be able to enjoy my successes but I won’t be able to if I’m stressed out. Below are some great ways you can de-stress for the upcoming year.
Exercise
Taking a 20/30-minute walk several times a week can alleviate stress and give your mind a boost. Walking will surely help reduce stress hormones and alleviate mild depression. Swimming is my favorite way to exercise and decompress after a long day. When I’m in the pool, my mind is at ease as I’m able to clear it of any negative thoughts and just focus on methodical strokes. Harvard Health published an article with other great techniques, found here: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/exercising-to-relax.
Environment Changes
Stepping out the office for a little while each day to change the scenery can be very helpful in de-stressing. Leaving the office for a lunch outing or even getting a cup of coffee at your favorite spot can be beneficial to the soul.
Find Your Creativity
I love to do arts and crafts when I am not sourcing. There are many creative individuals in the recruiting industry, including musicians, water and graphic artists, and gymnasts. Connecting with your local Meet-Up groups or with your community center can be a great way to find classes, if you’re looking to get creative. Scientific studies have shown how creativity can reduce stress. According to Entrepreneur, “just like physical exercise, creative stimulation engages and focuses our mind on the task at hand – and distracts us from feelings of stress and anxiety” (https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/300347).
Eat Mood Boosting Foods
Dark chocolate, salmon and eggs. Are you a fan of any of these items? If so, then you’re on a great path to a better mood, based on their nutritional value. I definitely love chocolate and find myself eating more dark chocolate for the health benefits.
Build Relationships
I found myself missing a lot of important events over the previous year because I let myself get so involved with work. One of my goals for the upcoming year is to make more time to spend with my friends, and take a few trips home to visit my parents.
Don’t forget about your relationship with your pet. Spending time with my cats in the evening while watching a movie is a way I love to de-stress after a hectic day. According to www.animalsmart.org, playing with or petting an animal can increase levels of the stress-reducing hormone oxytocin, and decrease production of the stress hormone cortisol. Did you know many cities have Meet-Up groups revolved around your favorite fur baby?
Conclusion
Whether it’s going out to eat or taking Fido for a walk, it is important to find a way to deal with stress so it does not consume your daily work life. In the end, it helps increase your productivity at work when you find that right balance of hitting the grindstone and kickin’ it in the recliner with Netflix. Don’t let work overtake your life and cause you miss out on the things that matter most in life: your health and your relationships.