Focus on employees’ wellbeing is often at the forefront of forward-thinking, caring businesses. In fact, as company owners or managers, you have a duty to ensure that your team is comfortable. Not only is this vital for their own physical and mental health, but it can also help uplift the productivity and efficiency of the business too.
However, it is common for people in a higher position of responsibility to forget or neglect their own wellbeing. This shouldn’t happen, as it is crucial to remember that we are all human and that workloads can become challenging for everyone. Of course, we are all different and we all handle pressing situations differently, but your mental health must never be overlooked.
We explore the importance of looking after your workplace wellbeing as a manager or business owner while offering tips on how to make sure you keep an eye on your feelings and act accordingly.
Unplug from time to time
What do you do when your laptop is not cooperating? Before seeking assistance, the first port of call is to switch it off and allow it to rest for a few minutes. As it reboots, software and programmes will usually start working again the way they should.
In the same way, it is fair to say that humans deserve to unplug from time to time too. With the pressures and challenges of managing a team of people, it is important to take a few breaks throughout the day. Whether it is listening to your favourite music or just taking a moment of calm, detaching from your duties for a short while will do your mental wellbeing the world of good.
Balance your work hours
As a business owner or manager, it is easy to feel forced to work for hours on end. In fact, running a company can be all-consuming, and it can truly take over your life.
You may enjoy cultivating your business, and its progression could be a big source of satisfaction, but it shouldn’t preclude you from practising other activities as well. In fact, prolonged work hours can lead to poor mental health, burnout and increased fatigue.
Spending time with family and friends is just as essential, and setting aside some time to embrace a hobby will work wonders for your wellbeing. This will help you stay connected with the outer world and effectively tackle feelings of isolation.
Note down your feelings
Every workday comes with its fair share of obstacles. How are you feeling? Overwhelmed? Upset? Frustrated? Or happy? Sometimes, it is natural to disregard your emotions and carry on with your duties.
However, taking regular intervals to reflect on both your mood and feelings can help you clear your mind. Keeping a personal journal in your office, for instance, can relieve stress and aid in understanding your sentiments. By jotting down your thoughts in a diary and determining patterns related to different scenarios, you will soon become mindful of your feelings. This is a useful tip you may wish to share with your employees too.
Get moving
Exercise is always an excellent way to declutter your brain. Intense workdays can put you to the test, but doses of physical activity can help you restore your overall wellbeing.
A short walk or a 10-minute workout is all you need. Encourage your team members to join you and get moving to enhance your physical and mental health.
Eat and drink well
If you are having a very busy day, the temptation to just skip your lunch break can be difficult to ignore. The truth is, though, that regardless of the amount of work you have, you should always have a healthy meal to keep you going. Your employees have a well-deserved food and drink break, so why shouldn’t you? Business owners and managers need just as much energy as their employees.
Healthy snacks throughout the day will ensure that your concentration levels are consistent. Eat some fruit and drink plenty of water. A hydrated body and a full stomach will keep you happy and ready to master your tasks.
Stay on top of warnings
Another important piece of advice is to react to your body’s messages and take action. In fact, neglecting signs of stress and burnout can lead to a gradual deterioration of your mental and physical wellbeing.
Instead, ensure that you take notice of possible warning signs, understand what is happening, and embrace preventive measures. If you are struggling to sleep at night, it may be down to your many work responsibilities. Ultimately, as a business owner or manager, you have a lot on your plate. If that’s the case, chat to someone or try some meditation sessions to free your mind from your job duties.
Likewise, if you are finding it difficult to concentrate, leave your desk and go for a short stroll in the fresh air. This will help you soothe your feelings of stress, pressure, anger or frustration. By taking immediate action, you can avoid damaging consequences in the long term.
Wellbeing in the workplace is an essential prerogative. As well as taking care of their people, business owners and managers should keep in check their own mental health too. From jotting down your emotions to exercising and unplugging at regular intervals, there are many ways to always put your all-important mental and physical wellbeing first.