Your career is important but it should never come before your health. Otherwise, stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues can crop up. These issues can affect your ability to perform your best at work. They can also make it virtually impossible to enjoy your time outside of work. And, if left unaddressed, mental health problems can lead to body pain, headaches, and other physical health issues.
The bottom line: you need to prioritize mental and physical wellness. Now, let’s examine five of the key dimensions of wellness, along with tips you can use to recalibrate your life and live better than ever before.
1. Emotional
Expressing your emotions in a safe, healthy manner is paramount. Yet, many people choose to “bottle up” their emotions, despite the fact that doing so can cause serious harm.
Those who suppress their emotions may struggle to deal with challenging situations at work and home. They also face a greater risk of heart disease, stroke, and other chronic illnesses than people who can effectively manage their emotional wellbeing.
To improve your emotional wellness, find constructive ways to express your feelings. For instance, meditation or deep breathing exercises have been shown to help people minimize negative emotions. Or, you can go for a walk or perform other physical activities that promote emotional wellness.
2. Intellectual
Having opportunities to engage in mentally stimulating activities can make a world of difference. In fact, those who nurture their curiosity can become lifelong learners who are well-equipped to thrive in any work environment at any time.
To foster your intellectual well-being, capitalize on any learning opportunities that come your way. For instance, you can read books or take up new hobbies. You can even visit a museum or art gallery to help get your creative juices flowing.
Don’t forget to take advantage of learning programs at work, too. If you are ready to take on more responsibility at work, ask your manager about any available learning opportunities. And, if you are on the job hunt, search for free courses on LinkedIn, Skillshare, and other learning websites.
3. Occupational
Everyone deserves to feel good about their work. However, there may be times when work problems escalate to the point where they cause people to feel bad about themselves. There may also be instances when employees are overworked, resulting in an unhealthy work-life balance.
To optimize occupational wellness, network with industry peers. This allows people to build professional relationships and grow them over time.
In addition, pursue professional development opportunities. Those who continuously look for opportunities to accelerate their professional growth can develop the skills required to accomplish their career aspirations.
4. Physical
How you take care of your body can have far-flung effects. If you constantly eat fast food and avoid exercise, your body can wear down quickly. The result: you may feel physically exhausted day after day, and you face a high risk of severe health problems.
A daily exercise routine can be beneficial. Engaging in 30 minutes of moderate daily physical activity can help you feel your best and extend your life.
Along with daily exercise, healthy eating and consistent rest are crucial in terms of physical wellness. Consume foods rich in vitamins, nutrients, and minerals whenever possible. Also, try to get at least seven to nine hours of sleep every night.
5. Environmental
You should feel safe, comfortable, and calm in your everyday surroundings. However, if your surroundings make you feel panicked and worried, your overall well-being may be at risk.
To enhance your environmental wellness, assess your home and work environments. Remove any clutter and eliminate any distractions from these settings.
Furthermore, volunteer in your community when you can. Volunteerism can help you connect with your community and foster new relationships. It can also help you build an emotional attachment to your community.
The Bottom Line on Wellness
There is no “magic bullet” to achieve true wellness. Instead, ongoing practice of the wellness dimensions mentioned above can help you feel your best now and in the future at work and outside of it.
Of course, a professional staffing agency can help alleviate stress as you search for new career opportunities, too. The agency has staffing specialists who can offer expert tips and guidance to help you find a job that complements your life. Partner with a staffing agency, and you can move forward in your quest to achieve your career goals.