Create a Healthier Workspace

Image courtesy of Whitney Valerie.

​I recently started a new job. Anyone who has been the “new guy” in the office knows that there is an insurmountable amount of stress when you’re a new employee. Understanding the company intranet, figuring out who to ask for what and finding the right conference room for your endless meetings has taken me months to figure out. I feel that the only way I learn anything is by messing it up!

All this uncertainty can be stressful and frankly downright exhausting. You may not be the new kid on the block, but dissatisfaction in the workplace is an all-too-common problem. Before you run out the door in search of something better, here are a few tips to make your daily work routine happier and healthier – and help you even thrive in your career.

Use Your Imagination.  According to a 2007 University of Texas, Austin study, workers who found ways to be innovative on the job were healthier than noncreative employees. Looking at your tasks and determining a more creative or at least different way to either approach them challenges your brain’s prefrontal cortex, which is where planning and problem solving begins. A well-exercised prefrontal cortex is believed to control behavior related to long-range goals.

Positive Thoughts. At the end of the work day write down three positive events, job-related or otherwise. Write down what happened but also why it was positive. Example: My boss complimented my weekly report because I’m showing how our social media efforts are making a difference. After a few weeks of this exercise, you’ll reduce stress, muscle pains and tension allowing yourself to detach from work and relax once you arrive home.

Healthy Snacks. Bypass the vending machine for homemade snacks of fruit and vegetables. Not only will your waistline thank you, but your wallet will too. The recommended five servings of fruit and vegetables per day will also help to increase dopamine, a motivating, happiness-boosting hormone.

Take a Walk. The walk to the bathroom several times a day can help to undo the myriad of ill effects of sitting for long stretches of time. You might also boost your brainpower, too. According to a 2014 Stanford University study, people who walked had 60 percent more creative ideas compared to their more sedentary co-workers.

H2O. Avoid even mild dehydration which can affect your energy, concentration and mood by drinking water throughout the day.

Spruce Up Your Workspace. A fern or plant in your workspace can improve concentration and productivity. Adding family portraits, inspirational quotes and personal items may keep distractions to a minimum and remind you of happy memories.