STRATEGIES FOR STAYING WELL AND LOOKING AFTER YOURSELF

Well what a difference one week can make! Everyone’s world and approach to work is literally changing hour by hour. I thought I’d pass on a few tips from my book that can help you navigate these uncertain times.

• Manage your thoughts and emotions. Talk things out with a mate. If keeping a journal is your thing, do that.

• Get some exercise. It’s so obvious, but so very important. Find something that doesn’t feel like a chore, something you get a kick out of doing. For me it’s football. The challenge of contributing to a team really gets me going.

• Look for the positives in situations. Yes, this is often easier said than done, but train your mind to look for the good.

• If you have had enough of all the COVID-19 news, can I suggest turn off the TV, radio, social media and lean in to the music you love or simply get out and go for a walk or run.

• See the light side. Laugh! I’ve included this one for my wife Philippa, who is very good at encouraging and doing this!

• Focus on what you’re grateful for. Many things may be going wrong, but take the time to look at what you are grateful for in your life.

Some other, more work-related strategies are:

• Be aware of what triggers you into an unhelpful state. Notice these early warning signs and try to turn things around.

• Re-frame unhelpful beliefs and attitudes about change. This is powerful and can stop you spiraling into a negative stream of ideas.

• Continually think of ways to improve and develop.

• Stay committed to your job. Be professional even when times are tough.

• Get involved. Help lead through this time of change rather than grumbling about it.

• Assist others through change. This will also help you get through it.

• Focus on what you can influence and let the rest go. This can be easier said than done but your attitude here is what is going to help pull you through.