As we head into a new year it’s no surprise that many people are taking the opportunity to start fresh, make new resolutions, and try to begin new and better habits.
While this is mainly in personal lives, these changes also trickle into the workplace. Many people find that they are looking to build healthier habits not only in their own home and lives, but also apply those habits to their work environment.
Reasons why to try to build healthier workplace habits
The new year is a perfect time to set goals and begin fresh. It takes 90 days to make or break a habit. And building healthier workplace habits makes for a better working environment and therefore a better worker.
So why not try curating a few of these habits in 2019 and create a better day at work for yourself.
15 ways to build healthy work habits
1. Drink more water
Nobody feels well when they are dehydrated. Make sure that you have plenty of good, clean water available at all times. The recommended least amount of water for a person to drink a day is eight 8-ounce glasses or half a gallon.
2. Snack less
Snacking too much can not only create unwanted weight gain but also affect your eating habits. Also, often the snacks that you eat are more than likely not good ones. Make sure that you are not hungry, but you also shouldn’t be overeating at work.
3. Exercise
It’s shown that taking even a short walk down the hall or 15-minute walk outdoors has a positive impact on a person’s mood. So step away from the job and take a quick walk to get those good endorphins going!
4. Pack a lunch
Eating out is not only draining on the budget but also it is likely way more unhealthy. Packing your own lunch ensures that you are eating well, and saves you money.
5. Be on time
If you are running late on a consistent basis you’re likely not only annoying your boss but also stressing out yourself. A good rule is to always plan on being 15 minutes early. That gives you time to allow for unplanned traffic, the last minute stop for coffee, or a moment to organize your workspace before starting work.
6. Take a break
Sitting or standing doing one job for too long can cause you to tire out, feel overwhelmed or stressed, and even make mistakes. Don’t be afraid to take a moment to step away from your work and rest for a few minutes. You’ll return feeling twice as ready to return to the job.
7. Skip the elevator
Getting exercise can be difficult, but one easy way to try and get a bit of a workout in is simply to skip the elevator and take the stairs. It takes only a few minutes more and is much better for your health in the long run.
8. Take a short nap
If you find yourself lagging midday, try skipping drinking more caffeine and close your eyes for 5 minutes (make sure it’s not longer than 15) and take a quick cat-nap. You’ll awake feeling way more refreshed than if you’d tried the caffeine.
9. Create a space
It’s hard to work in an environment that you feel uncomfortable in. Try making a space that allows you to feel uplifted and positive. This will help you to focus better, be more at peace, and work better.
10. Stretch
Watch your posture. Slumping too long, bending over, or typing for long lengths of time can cause you to feel uncomfortable. Make it a habit to stand up and stretch every hour. If your muscles are hurting they are sure to be affecting your work and overall mood.
11. Stop drinking so much coffee
While everyone loves coffee there is such a thing as too much of a good thing! Rather than drinking that third (or even fourth or fifth) cup, try stretching, eating a snack or drinking a big glass of water. Drinking too much caffeine can make you jumpy and anxious, which is just as bad, if not worse, than being tired.
12. Work outside or by a window
Sunlight is not only good for you, providing that wonderful vitamin D, but it’s also good for the moral. Try, if possible, to work outside on occasion. If that’s isn’t possible to do, try to at least sit by a window and get some natural light.
13. Swap out the candy
It’s so tempting to have all the snacks nearby and pick a little at them throughout the day. However, candy is a terrible thing not only for your teeth but can give you a sugar high that can cause you to crash later on. Try switching the candy out for a heather snack.
14. Create a positive environment
Since most of your time is spent in your workplace you should make every effort to be comfortable there. Create a place that allows you to feel positive and good. The last thing you want is to dread going to a job that makes you feel down. This can be something so simple as adding some art to the walls, pictures of loved ones, or a plant.
15. Leave the work at work
Lastly, for many people, it can be hard to leave the work at work. They may feel the need to “check-in”. Stop. It’s important to take a break from your job. That way you have time to recharge and when you are at work you’ll be able to be more productive because of the time that you spent away.
As we spend several hours a day at work, it's worth it to make those hours healthy ones for both our mind and body.
Through implementing a few simple habits throughout your workday, you can boost your productivity and creativity, while minimising stress and fatigue. So download the poster below and give a few of these a try!
