Put Your Own Oxygen Mask On First
As we come to the end of 2021, I’m reminded that taking care of ourselves has never been more of a priority than it was this year. Over the past 18+ months, everyone has learned about the “next normal” – including the (sometimes unfortunate) ability to schedule back-to-back meetings all day long. And even if we have not traveled as frequently this past year as we did pre-COVID, we all know the saying that the airlines have made famous: Put on your own oxygen mask first. First. Before helping your own child, even. Why? Because if you pass out, you are no good to anyone.As the holidays are in full-throttle mode, I ask you to reflect with me:
What have I done to ensure that I’m as productive at work and home as I can be?
Have I reserved “me-time” on the calendar so that I recharge for those who need me?
What activities have I incorporated into my day or week to ensure that my tank is full of fuel, or my battery is fully charged?
I asked my colleagues at BRYANT GROUP to share some ways they recharge (and this from a team that has been working remotely since 2016!). We hope these thoughts spark ideas for you as you embrace 2022 in new ways that inspire you both professionally and personally:
Walking for 10-15 minutes during the day helps me stretch and gives my mind a break.
By closing my eyes and listening to my favorite music, I relive some of the best memories with my family.
Reading a daily devotional—with the phone off—for the first hour after I get up refreshes me.
Scheduling ten minutes in my day for a household chore—like laundry—makes me feel productive.
Closing my eyes to meditate for 10 minutes helps me focus.
Touching base with a colleague to see how they are doing energizes me.
Brainstorming with my spouse about an issue with the kids (the two-legged or four-legged kind) keeps me from worrying about them.
Riding my bike around the block lets me get fresh air and jump-starts my creative juices.
My dining room table always has a puzzle on it and spending ten minutes on it during the day is relaxing.
Playing with the dog gives me great joy, and he seems to like it too!
What “me-time” activities did you incorporate this year? If you didn’t pay as much attention to it in 2021, you’ve got a grand opportunity on January 1st. Don’t forget to relax and renew for 2022!Sending all well wishes to you from BRYANT GROUP,Lee Williams-Lopapa
