Last week we introduced the new Office Essentials Health and Wellness program and it’s focus on helping us be happier and healthier at work, while finding that work/life balance. As much as we’d like to jump in feet first and start the search, there are some steps we need to take to be mentally ready.
Taking that first step forward towards a happier and healthier workplace, and lifestyle, is a big deal. We are revamping and/or changing habits that we’ve been used to for quite some time, and that can be pretty nerve wrecking. Before we dive in head first, we need to ask ourselves the Whys, Whats, and Hows.
- Why am I doing this?
- What is my goal, short-term, long-term, or both?
- How will I accomplish my goals?
The “Why” is what we will refer back to when we have a moment of weakness; it is the motivation. The “What” indicates the outcome from a revamp and/or change in habits; it is the finish line. The “How” discusses the different way(s) to manage, execute, and achieve the “What”; it’s the action. Once we have these internal questions answered, we are ready to take flight.
I asked a few of our team members to share their goals for 2016. Here’s what they had to say.
I’d like to include stretching in my daily work rituals by scooting back from the computer screen and stretch my arms and legs. It’s good for the my mind and body, and it’s easy to do. It makes me feel a lot better, too! As for my main goal for myself in 2016, I’d like to get into yoga.
My focus for 2016 is to get to my goal of 21% Body Fat Index.How? Adding more cardio work outs to my week…The Plan:3x wk strength/conditioning training (weight training)2x wk cardio training (30-40 min)Macronutrient diet (fat, protein, carbs)1 Cheat day a weekWater, water, water!
Reach 10,000+ steps a each day (whether it be running or walking), eat lunch out only 4 times per month, and take more time each day to focus on what makes ME happy (running, weight training, dancing, the Property Brothers, and art)! It may sound selfish but I’ve learned the more I focus on me and what makes me happy, I have more energy and love to share with those I care about!
- For every mile ran, outside or on a treadmill, place 1 penny in the “Running Jar” set on my kitchen counter (a visual reference). At the end of the year, tally up the number of pennies to see the final mileage, then cash them in!
My final advice is to you on your new journey towards being happier and healthier at work, and outside of it, is to enjoy the process. If whatever you’re doing to reach your goal isn’t making you happy, find something that will! This is a lifestyle change, and if we can’t enjoy it, more than likely we’ll fall right back into our habits we wanted to change in the first place.
Now that you have the tools to start your journey, get out there and make it happen! See you at the finish line!
