2020 was an annus hornbills for so many people, with millions dealing with grief, stress, financial difficulties, job losses and isolation caused by the pandemic. Now Christmas has given way to January and the long dark winter months are here - a time that can be difficult for many people even in normal times. There are things we can do to give ourselves a lift. Some tips to consider are:
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Get moving. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins into the bloodstream, relieving pain and producing a feeling of well-being. Research has shown that exercise increases electrical activity in the emotional processing areas of the brain, particularly the hippocampus and the pre-frontal cortex.
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Stop overthinking. People often dwell on problems, going over and over the same negative thoughts. If you've been worrying about something for 30 minutes or more without coming up with a plan of action, or you've been going over questions with no answers, it's time to stop.
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Set a new target. Setting a new goal or target can really help pull you through. If big ideas are too much, start small. Learning to do new things is frequently how we acquire self-worth. Goal-motivated behaviour is one of the most fundamental ways that we operate.
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Talk it over. The pandemic has made it a lot harder to be with others in person and winter can make it even more difficult. The mental health consequences for some will be serious, in particularly those who are isolating. So it's a good idea to maximise the little social contact that is available.
- Be optimistic. Optimists live longer, have better relationships and immune systems. You can cultivate your optimism: an inner sense that you can make a difference to your life. How? Take action. Don't wait to do things perfectly at the right time on the right day. Jump into action and accept that sometimes things may turn out not so well. You’ll be surprised that the results may not actually be that bad, and will always be better than doing nothing.
The above leadership tip...
was sent in response to a question from a participant on our acclaimed 10/10 leadership development and mentoring programme. Whether you're a first time manager or an experienced leader, straightforward, practical advice on best practice is hard to find. Until now. To find out how you, your team or your organisation can benefit, please join us on our next complimentary webinar or contact us.
HOW TO THRIVE IN THESE UNPRECEDENTED TIMES
As part of the government's current business support packages, we have been awarded funding to deliver our acclaimed 10/10 leadership development and mentoring programme "live and online" to help those now working from home. This 10-week cyclical programme, leading to the award of a certificate in leadership development, offers cutting-edge insights into change, resilience, wellbeing, motivation, teams, communication, strategy, influencing, effectiveness and self-awareness. READ MORE
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