Chefs & Curry

5 Steps to Wellbeing

Connect

Connecting with others can help us feel close to people, and valued for who we are. Being social means different things for different people - you might prefer being in quieter situations with one other person, or you might like being big groups. You might like to connect with people online, or you might enjoy phone calls or sending letters. 

  • if you feel comfortable, you could try speaking to someone new
  • Ask how someone's weekend was, and really listen to their response
  • Put 5 minutes aside to find out how a colleague is doing
  • Give a colleague a lift to work or share the journey home with them

Get Active

Many people find that physical activity helps them maintain positive mental health.

This doesn't have to mean running marathons or training every single day at the gym. There are lots of things you can do to be a bit more active. 

Studies have shown that getting active can help you sleep better, have happier moods and reduce feelings of stress, anxiety and racing thoughts. 

  • Go for a walk at lunchtime
  • Walk into work- maybe you could go with a collegaue
  • Take the stairs rather than the lift
  • Organize a work sporting activity
  • Have a kick-about in a local park
  • Make time for exercises in your weekly routine (e.g. do some stretches before you leave for work early in the morning)

Take notice

Reminding yourself to take notice can help you to be aware of how you're feeling. It can help you understand what triggers your feelings or stress or anxiety. 

Some studies have shown that savoring 'the moment' can also contribute to you feeling more positive about life, overall. Ensure to take some time to enjoy the moment and the environment around you.

  • Get a plant for your workspace
  • Have a 'clear the clutter' day
  • Take a different route on your journey to or from work
  • Visit a new place for lunch

Learn

We are always learning new things - often without realizing it. Feeling like you are learning and working on your self-development can boost your self-esteem.

And many times, setting goals can help you to feel more productive and in control of your life.

Here are few learning ideas:

  • Find out something new about your colleagues
  • Sign up for a class 
  • Read the news/ a book
  •  Learn a riddle, do a crossword, Sudoku
  • Research something you've always wondered about
  • Learn the meaning of a new word

Give

Some studies have shown that people who help others are likely to rate themselves as happy. 

Is there anything you can do today, to be kind or helpful to someone else? 

Try:

  •  Making a cup of tea for a colleague
  • Offering to help a colleague  with something they are stuck on
  • Introducing yourself to a new starter, to help them feel more at ease
  • Seeing if there are any volunteering initiatives open at work