When it comes to our careers, it’s easy to lose sight of our health. Long work days, stressful deadlines, and time-consuming commutes may be necessary to further our career, but they can wear down our bodies. Luckily, there are a few simple steps you can take to make your workday – and your self – healthier and happier.
Obstacle 1: The Commute
Is your long commute adding stress to your day? Look into public transportation or carpool options. With your newfound free time, you can relax, chat, or read instead of toying with road rage.
Obstacle 2: The Desk Chair
Sitting all day is not good for you. An ergonomic chair or back pillow is money well spent. Get up and walk around once per hour. Or try briefly working from a standing desk or counter if possible. If you stand all day, invest in some supportive shoes – your lower back will thank you.
Obstacle 3: Fast Food
Say no to lunches out and afternoon trips down to the cafeteria for snacks. Spend an extra 15 minutes each morning packing a healthy lunch and snacks. Stock your kitchen with a few frozen healthy meals for emergencies and always keep healthy snacks on hand like yogurts and nuts.
Obstacle 4: No Time to Work Out
This is the hardest challenge of them all, but there are some solutions. Is it possible for you to bike to and from work? Is there a gym at work or close to work in which you could workout during lunch? Can you take a 15-minute break for an afternoon walk each day? Can you work out before work? Commit to exercising just twice per week and you’ll feel a lot better.
Image by puuikibeach.
March 7, 2013
Career Advice