In the busyness of checking tasks off our to-do lists, we struggle to juggle between work, family and social needs and often neglect the most important person: ourselves.
A study done in 2018 by The Institute of Mental Health (IMH), found that an average of one in seven Singaporeans experienced some sort of mental disorder, include mood and anxiety disorders. So how can we prevent our mental state from falling apart?
To put it simply, be nice to yourself. We asked our team at Style Theory on easy, manageable ways they can be nice to themselves, consistently. Here are some ways you can try:
Be Nice To Yourself:
#1. Be Active
The old saying of health is wealth rings true! There are some things that can’t be bought–including good health It is important to keep your health in check and one way is to be active. It’ll be fun to pick out an activity or sport that’ll keep your body and mind in shape.
Exercising also helps build up heart strength and immunity! You’ll naturally be in a better mood in the long run as exercising increases serotonin – helps regulate mood, appetite and sleep. You might feel that it is tough to start, so try the 21-day rule. Stick to your exercise routine for 21 days and you’re more likely to have the habit stick.
#2. Eat Well
You are what you eatApart from being active, diet is an important factor of health. Of course, we are not expecting you to give up on indulgence completely. We encourage you to strive for a balance and reduce intake of food that are too oily, salty and sweet.
You can also include in your diet more fruits, vegetables, legumes, fish and unsaturated fats like olive oil. Most importantly, don’t skip meals especially breakfast! Still lacking in nutrition from time to time? Take your vitamins regularly.
#3. Speak Positively
When they say words have power, they aren’t lying. Words can change brain activity and one negative comment can affect our mood. Speaking positively and encouraging yourself helps promote self-worth. You’ll find that over time, the positivity you build on creates the confidence you need as well as improve your mental and physical being.
Being nice to yourself doesn’t mean you only limit to your personal life. It is important to ensure your mental wellness at work is being cared for as well.
#4 Dress Well
It doesn’t hurt to be nice to yourself, and being nice may mean treating yourself to a pretty outfit once in a while. More often, if you look good, you’ll feel good too!
Dressing helps to improve your confidence and self-worth. You don’t have to go over the top, picking a simple yet flattering outfit is enough to give yourself the boost you need! We find it easier to learn about our body shape first, then dressing for it. Fit and flatter is one of the easiest way to go to discover your personal style!
Be Nice To Yourself At Work:
#1. Take Breaks – For Better Productivity
In order to achieve better productivity at work, it is important to take necessary breaks in between heavy workload. We understand that there are struggles of not knowing when to take breaks and we often break our momentum by doing so.
Pioneered by Francesco Cirillo, the Pomodoro technique aims to improve work productivity. Here is how it works:
These four steps is the completion of one “Pomodoro”. Repeat steps 1 to 4 and after four rounds of Pomodoro, you can take a longer break.
The idea of this is to encourage undivided attention during the 25 minutes set aside for tasks. You can gradually introduce more Pomodoros once you are used to the routine. You may find that you are no longer as stressed out and have more control over your workload.
#2. Set Challenging But Attainable Goals
If you often feel tired and dread going to work because of achievable standards, it is time to reevaluate the goals that has been set. Setting goals are extremely important, however it is essential to set targets that are not only challenging but at the same time attainable.
Challenging and attainable goals will help boost work morale and confidence.
#3. Ask For Help
Ever felt like you are losing control over your work, your desk is a mess and nothing productive is going out? It is a cue to ask for a helping hand. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you feel like you’re drowning at work as taking on more load than you can handle has proven to be damaging to your mental wellness.
It is important to manage expectations for yourself and when needed rely on a fellow colleague to help take a little off you!
We understand that it can be difficult picking up something to improve your mental wellness but these are things you can try and gradually introduced it to your routine at home and at work. In the long-term you’ll find yourself leading a more fulfilling life.
Have any tips to share? Comment below on how you have gone the extra mile to be kind(er) to yourself.
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