Optimal Health is Truly Wealth: How to Take Care of Your Health While Working

The other day, I reshared someone’s health related post and the feedback received made me recall so many conversations I have had with people throughout my career trajectory regarding health. As an accountant who has worn many hats, including HR functions I never wanted to sign up for, I hav been privy to so much information and have been asked for so much feedback.

Without disclosing anyone’s personal medical or financial information I will say this...

Company benefits versus company culture, management etc

Companies are made of people and people are managed by people. Two people working at a company in different departments or reporting to different managers may have a different experience. Some managers do not take care of their own health and may want you to push through and show up to work no matter what, while others are more conscious and reasonable. Your coworkers are not your friends even if they are. If you have any medical condition or are preganant, etc., make the proper disclosures as a soon as required or possible with the Human Resources department and department heads etc. and hope HIPAA and FMLA etc will be compiled with.

Benefits, etc.

COBRA is a four letter word in my opinion. Who in the world really has the money to continue the health insurance policy after being separated from a company? Some employers actually include a month or more of heal inruance coverage in separation packages whether you left involuntary it’s or voluntarily. You may be able to negotiate health coverage when leaving an organization. People who have pre-existing conditions may be concerned about obtaining coverage and may extend their tenure at companies due to concerns. Be sure to conscult the right people hand get proper information to make right decision. Staying at a company only for health insurance may cost you up to your death if the place is toxic enough.

Financial planning

A lot of people cringe and complain about setting pre-tax dollars aside to cover things like health costs, preventive carre, etc. Everyone has their own responsibilities to take care or decisions to make etc. The cost of living is astronomical for lack of a better term. If you are planning to have a child, minor or major surgery, alternative treatments, etc., you should consult your financial advisor on ways to mitigate and lower the out of pocket costs. There is a lot of great content by reputable financial advisors etc. that can help you increase your understanding of such financial strategies before you need them so you can have a more informed discussion with your financial advisor, etc.

Trauma informed training, advocacy, etc.

While working in academia, I took trauma informed teaching related training. I wish everyone took such trainings so they could understand the level of compassion and accessibility they should afford others they work with. Everyone isn’t called to serve others or be an advocate. But everyone can take a moment to reflect before giving others who are bold enough to share their stories feedback. Survivors of trauma of any kind could use the support and advocacy of others, but sometimes they may get discouraged when people give unsolicited advice and victim blame. Everyone’s circumstances are different. People are fighting battles that no one knows about. Bills have to be paid- everyone doesn't have a spouse, family, trust funds, inheritance, support network, etc. that can fund them for weeks, months, years on end if they lose their job, become sick or disabled temporarily, burnout,etc. Some people face careee derailment and financial ruin from walking away from things and places that no longer service them or taking their shot at entreprenership or following their dreams. Try to be kind and considerate in the feedback you give others. Dont judge people. Don’t tell people you’re been through worse and they will end up okay. Sometime silence is better than anything when you don't have anything helpful or encouraging to say.

Women’s health

The state of women’s health and the history of medical studies - if you know anything about this you know women suffer horrifically when seeing basic medical care. So many things are dismissed and not treated. All I can say is if you can try to support causes and organizations that help women live healthier lives, etc. and support the women in your personal and business circles to the best of your ability. In general, care about people’s wellbeing and don’t be the cause of distress. Work is work and will get done somehow- people aren’t paid enough to deal with bs

What has helped you obtain/maintain optimal health while working?

Thoughts?