While the workplace is a great opportunity to get out of your comfort zone, it should never come before your health, both physical and mental. The pandemic has started a long-needed discussion around mental health in the workplace.According to a recent Gallup poll, 94% of  American workers report feeling stressed at work, and a third of these workers feel that their stress levels are unusually high. Younger workers (those between the ages of 15 and 49) report the highest levels of stress.  Here are some strategies on incorporating self-care in your work life:

Create a Self-Care Routine

• Create a personal routine that focuses on your well-being. This could include any number of rituals:
  • A cup of tea and Netflix before bed 
  • Giving yourself enough time to do your skincare in the morning/night
  • Exercise 
  • Meditation/journaling
• Eliminate outside distractions during your personal routine (I.E. Not checking your emails until after breakfast)

Organization is Prevention

• Use a calendar/planner where you write down everything. If you have all of your plans in front of you can ensure that you don’t overbook yourself. It can also help you remember deadlines
• Keep a To-Do list for each day where you write down your tasks for the day. Remember that your time is finite, so it is important to set reasonable expectations for yourself. Collect these notes in one place, whether it’s a notebook, Google doc etc.

The Pitfalls of Perfectionism

• Recognize your strengths and weaknesses: No one is good at everything, so it’s ok if you find yourself in a situation where you’re being challenged. Take things one step at a time and ask for support when you need it.
• You should know what your goals, limitations, and needs are; your best advocate is yourself. Be honest with your supervisors and colleagues about whether or not something is working for you.

Setting Boundaries

• Ask yourself what you are willing to sacrifice for work; the answer should never be your health, emotional well-being, or safety. Try to separate your work and personal life by respecting your schedule (I.E. Refraining from checking your phone after a certain time). 
  • If you ever find that your workload interferes with your boundaries, discuss possible accommodations or provisions with your supervisor
  • The Power of “No”: You can always politely decline and ask your supervisor for possible alternatives.