Even people who like their jobs are prone to entering into a dismal and depressed state on days when the hours seem too long and the stress is overwhelming. The good news is that there are many ways to fight off these emotions even when actions and events make them seem quite justified. Following are 7 tips to replenish your mind and body at work so that you can constantly maintain a positive attitude and outlook.
1. Unwind At Lunch
Use your lunch hour to do more than simply eat. This is a perfect time to unwind and prepare for the second half of your day so it is important to avoid munching on a sandwich at your desk while continuing to plod through your responsibilities. Use half of your time to take an easy stroll around the neighborhood, making an effort to stay in wooded areas or other scenic spaces. This is the perfect way to fit in regular exercise which will help you to feel better, look better and perform better overall. Rather than grabbing greasy fast food, always make sure to pack a healthy, balanced lunch that fuels your body in the most optimal way. Tuna on whole wheat bread, a chicken salad or a light pasta and vegetable dish are some of the best options for filling your belly, regulating your blood sugar and sating your palate without becoming overly full.
2. Reduce Your Coffee Intake
Although it might seem like this brew is able to keep picking you up, it can actually bog you down. It is often too easy to keep refilling your cup over the course of the day, especially if there is someone in the office who makes sure to keep a fresh pot on. After several cups of coffee, most people do not feel more energetic. Instead, they feel shaky, jittery and surprisingly tired. It is also important to note that heavily sugared creamers can pack on a lot of pounds over time, especially if you are consuming a lot of these. Treat yourself to a single cup in the morning and then keep a bottle of water by your desk to stay hydrated throughout the day.
3. Snack On Fruit
Rather than waiting until you can pull away for a lunch break, keep a plate or bag of fresh cut fruits by your side. You can munch on these throughout the day to gain the energy that you once hoped coffee would provide. Fresh fruits are not only packed with vitamins, they are also fiber dense which will facilitate better digestion. Best of all, they have wonderful aromas that can have some surprising benefits. Fresh citrus smells are known to make people feel more alert and inspired. The natural fragrance of fresh strawberries is believed to alleviate depression and to eliminate feelings of guilt.
4. Close Your Eyes
Most people start winking in and out of consciousness at different points of the day. They perform the most mundane of their responsibilities in a zombie-like state, hardly aware of what they are doing. Their thoughts are unfocused and their productivity levels start to wane. Rather than slipping into this state as the close of the day draws near, take a few minutes to simply shut your eyes and deep breathe. Shutting everything out will give you a moment to hone in on the tasks that really matter. After a full day of challenges and complaints most workers find themselves suffering from sensory overload. Taking a few minutes to replenish yourself through deep breathing and a commitment to doing absolutely nothing at all will help you to finish out the day in rare and impressive form.
5. Avoid Office Politics
The best way to replenish your mind and body at work is to avoid the things that can be most draining in these environments. While office gossip can certainly be a lot of fun to engage in, it can also have a very negative impact on the office atmosphere in general. The social conflicts that arise as a result of these conversations can make work far more overwhelming than it really has to be. Rather than standing at the water cooler with everyone else, draw your focus into your work and maintain your own inner peace.
6. Set Daily Objectives
Setting measurable objectives for yourself is a great way to develop a sense of accomplishment. Rather than simply powering through your daily tasks, itemize them and cross them off as you get them done. Each achievement will feel like a cause for celebration and will help you to retain a positive mindset even when the hours feel like they are droning on for everyone else.
7. Eat A Sweet
A nice, sweet pick-me-up is certain to put a smile on your face. Dark chocolate has a number of mood enhancing benefits and a small serving will not impact your waistline. Keep a hidden cache of these goodies in your desk to sweeten your mood when all other efforts have failed.
Work does not have to be a dreadful and draining experience. People simply need to make regular efforts to maintain a positive outlook and a proactive mindset. Rather than letting the days determine your mood, take steps to ensure that you stay energized, refreshed and absolutely capable of conquering your responsibilities.
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