When you think about what it takes to keep fit and healthy, probably the first two things that come to mind are a good diet and plenty of exercise. In my last blog, I wrote about the new definition of health as “the ability to adapt and self manage in the face of social, physical, and emotional challenges.” Certainly requires more than just diet and exercise.
How adaptable are you? Change is constant in today’s work environment. Leadership change. Shifting priorities. Forced job changes. I spoke with someone the other day who’s had three different managers in the short 8 months she’s been at her current company. And let’s not even think about how many times people we know have been laid off over the past decade. Being healthy means that you recognize the situation, vent/grieve/tune out (temporarily) as you need to, then dust yourself off and move on. So often with these changes come new opportunities. The key is having a support system. Being connected to colleagues and having strong relationships with friends and family outside of work. Engaging in your community and leveraging social networks to identify new opportunities and learn different approaches. And, of course, knowing where you can find additional resources, if necessary.
How well do you self-manage? Are you aware of your behavior traits and how they affect – positively or negatively – your work and the people around you? Self-awareness is the first step in self-management, which is often equated with emotional intelligence – another important factor for “health.” Personal health can be improved by proactively taking steps to ensure you are doing things in your life that are meaningful and by seeking out meaningful work. Continuous learning. Self-motivation. Goals. These all contribute to your ability to self-manage.
Finally, what makes you happy? Our happiness has a lot to do with how healthy we are. Take some time this week over a pumpkin latte or some candy corn or whatever your favorite fall indulgence is and think about what makes you happy. Then plan to do it. Where’s your favorite place to go? Plan to go there. Who makes you laugh? Spend some time with them. What makes you feel good? Just DO IT!
Consider what research has shown about laughter and happiness:
– A hearty laugh relieves physical tension and stress, leaving your muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes afterward.
– Laughter increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, which improves your resistance to disease.
– 20 minutes of exercise, 3 times a week for 6 months will improve your general feeling of happiness by 10-20%.
– Happier people do better in their jobs. A recent study found that happy people make more money and obtain better job performance reviews than do unhappy people.
When you are happier and healthier, the rest will take care of itself.
Till next time,
Karen
