We are habitual beings. According to a study conducted by Charles Duhigg, about 45% of what we do on a daily basis may feel like decisions, but it’s actually Office Space habits on autopilot. The small decisions you make from what you eat for breakfast to how you get to the workplace all define your daily experience. If you are feeling fatigued, burned out, or unhappy at the office, adopting good habits can be what you need to become happy again. Think of it as programming your body and mind in a manner that sets you up for more energy, focus, and creativity. It may take a while to rewire your habits, but it is well worth the effort.
So, what habits can you take on today to enter a path of happiness at the workplace? Let us delve in!
Get Adequate Sleep
It is impossible to be happy at the Office Space if you’re constantly feeling tired and sleepy. According to the CDC, over a third of adults in the United States do not get adequate sleep. About 40% of these individuals are so tired and drowsy during the day that it affects their productivity. According to studies, getting less than 7 hours of sleep at night is linked to an array of health risks and conditions. As a result, some organizations have taken action to encourage staff members to get a full night’s sleep, with some even providing bonuses to those who meet this condition.
Whether you work for an organization that pays employees to sleep or not, getting adequate sleep sets you up for a better day at the workplace. For Office Space many, however, this is easier said than done. We live in an era with so many distractions like social media, TV shows, stress, anxiety, etc., that sleeping on time is almost impossible. As such, it is advisable to adopt a sleep routine where you sleep at the same time and wake up at the same time every day. Avoid the temptation of sleeping late by switching off digital devices and creating a bedtime ritual that prepares your body and mind for sleep.
Pay Attention to Hydration & Nutrition
What you consume will determine the quality and level of energy during the day. It’s not surprising that starting your day with a coffee and a donut makes you feel sluggish just an hour into your work.
There are numerous publications regarding structuring nutrition for optimal body performance. The reality, however, is that you do not require a restrictive or elaborate diet in order to function at your best. Ensure you get a good mix of proteins, fats, and slow-burning carbs in every meal or snack. Take note of how your body reacts to different foods. If pasta at lunch makes you want to take a nap rather than attend a meeting, then consider other options.
In addition, you’ll want to keep your body hydrated throughout the day. Drink water and limit your intake of energy drinks and sodas.
Keep Your Desk Organized
Is your space always cluttered with reports and stacks of mail? Are there piles of paperwork in your space that belong to the file cabinet? A cluttered desk makes it hard to focus and be productive.
So, if your workplace always looked like a paper factory that just exploded inside, consider taking some time to organize it. Put the relevant paperwork in the file cabinet and get rid of what you no longer need. Come up with a system for handling incoming mail, reports, and emails so that you do not find yourself drowning in paperwork a few weeks later, work time trackers can really help. Start now and make it a habit. You will find yourself happier while at the office.
Get Rid of Mental Clutter
Your brain is capable of processing a lot of information, but if you are not careful, it will get overwhelmed and ineffective in no time.
