June 6, 2024, by lqyhs14

Prioritising your wellbeing throughout your career journey

By Hemakshi Soni, sociology and social policy student © via Unsplash by Brooke Cagle

In today’s fast-paced world, it can be easy to get overwhelmed with jobs, the pressure to exceed, meet deadlines and achieve career milestones. This can sometimes lead us to neglect our health so it is crucial to prioritise your physical and mental well-being to sustain long-term success and happiness. This blog provides guidance on recognizing when you need to take a break, managing stress and anxiety and preventing burnout to create a more fulfilling work-life balance.

Some signs to look out for to prevent burnout:

Feeling drained after job commitments

• If you consistently feel exhausted or depleted after work it may be a sign you are overextending yourself.

Feelings of anxiety or dread

• Experiencing anxiety at the thought of going to work can affect your mental health as well as productivity and day-to-day life.

Impact on your physical health

• Physical symptoms such as headaches, trouble sleeping, changes in appetite, and muscle tension are often linked to stress and lead to more serious issues if not addressed.

Lack of motivation or concentration

• Feeling unmotivated and having difficulty focusing may be a sign that you are overwhelmed and need to take a break to recharge and recover.

Methods of prioritising your wellbeing

Take time to spend with family and friends

• Spending time with loved ones is vital for your well-being and can help provide some support to help you feel grounded.

Take frequent breaks

• Don’t wait until you’re burnt out to take a break, ensure you are listening to your body and mind to recharge whenever you need to.

Make time for hobbies

• Engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfilment can reduce stress and improve your mood.

Re-assess your work environment

• Consider how factors such as your job, duties, work pressure and environment may be influencing these feelings. If you are feeling unhappy in your job, it may be a sign to consider a change in career path.

Focus on self-care and self-compassion

• Practising self-care is essential during tough times, try meditating, practising mindfulness, journaling or taking a walk.

Communicate with your employer or HR representative

• Share your concerns to discuss solutions to help manage your stress such as flexible working hours, additional support or resources.

Set workplace boundaries

• If your workload is affecting your mental health, avoid taking more responsibility than you can handle to ensure you are prioritising your health.

Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet

• A healthy diet and regular physical exercise are essential for reducing stress and lifting mood.

Avoid comparing yourself to others

• Remind yourself to focus on your own progress, celebrate your achievements and understand everyone is on their own journey.

If you are struggling to balance your career and wellbeing, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. You can book a careers appointment to discuss any issues you are facing, alternatively, check out our career wellbeing page.

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