For some of us, returning to the office after finally perfecting the cushty WFH setup might seem like the end of the world. For the social butterflies, it might be a godsend. Whichever way you\u2019re inclined, as a lot of folk reboot the commute, it\u2019s worth remembering how to look after yourself at work both in body and mind.<\/p>\n
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Since the pandemic\u2019s dreaded C-word is still very much a part of our daily lingo, one priority should be familiarising yourself with the latest workplace health and safety policies, as well as any support that\u2019s available to you. Sure, it\u2019ll probably put you to sleep faster than you can say \u201ckeep a two metre distance at all times\u201d, but, if you\u2019re in the know, it\u2019ll go a long way towards reducing anxiety and stress levels.<\/p>\n
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Admittedly, it\u2019s easier said than done, but if you\u2019re one of those people that isn\u2019t particularly buzzing about being back in the bullpen, try and remember what you enjoy about being there.<\/p>\n
Focus on the friendships, the office banter, the social events, the value you find in the work that you do, or the goals that you\u2019re working towards. Focus on the positives.<\/p>\n
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It\u2019s fairly obvious to most at this point that bums on seats does not equal productivity. Whilst working at home, a lot of us probably started getting used to sticking on a load of washing or nipping to let the dog out. Little breaks like that are proven to help reduce sitting-fatigue, improve motivation and boost productivity.<\/p>\n
So keep it movin\u2019, go make a brew, chat with colleagues, or find any way you can to get a mental reset. If you get enough time on your lunch for a walk, quick gym trip or any other decent chunk of exercise, it can boost your focus more than you may realise.<\/p>\n
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Choccy biscuits in the meeting room? Stash of sweets in your desk drawer? As tough as it may be to hear, it\u2019s probably time to cut them out for good. Not only do they contribute towards a few pesky pounds on the waistline here and there, but they also lead to some pretty nasty crashes once the sugar rush winds down.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s not at all uncommon for office workers to experience an afternoon dip in energy. Healthy snacks like fruit, yoghurt or nuts can help prevent the crash, whilst drinking plenty of water will maintain your concentration. A super-healthy homemade lunch on top of this will leave your body and your bank balance feeling grateful.<\/p>\n
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Whether you worked from home with an all-singing, all-dancing triple-monitor setup or peered out at your laptop from under a heap of blankets, now\u2019s the time to start protecting your posture.<\/p>\n
Look into how you can improve the ergonomics of your workstation, keeping your chair at the right height, your monitor at eye level \u2013 all that jazz. You\u2019ll thank yourself in the years to come.<\/p>\n
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