The Wellbeing Edit. (and your December survival kit).

Wrapping up 2023 (even though Well Purposed is just getting started), with a wellbeing edit. Some of my most engaged with posts over the last year, brought together. Think of it as your December survival kit !

If any month warrants an increase in stress levels, it's December. A toxic mix of external demands on time, finances and emotions can cause the most balanced person's stress levels to rocket.

From a wellbeing and productivity perspective this is not good news. Stress and anxiety rank among the most common workplace challenges. Research confirms this, with a negative correlation between overall stress and productivity: higher stress scores were significantly associated with lower productivity scores. Not to mention the obvious signs of stress, from lack of energy, to reduced creativity, constant worry and negative effects on personality.

So how can we improve our relationship with December?

?? Pre-determine your budget...and stick to it. From presents, to secret Santa and nights out, they all burn a hole in your pocket. True friends will still be friends in January, irrespective of how much you spent. You, being present and engaged, is worth more than any gift.

?? Balance indulgence with good nutrition. Parties and indulgence go hand in hand with December, but limit the damage and stress on your body by being mindful pre and post the parties and celebrations.

?? Be confident in the decision you make. It's easy to revert to a 'child' once at home with the relatives, to be swayed into attending another party or to give in to the demands of a toddler (or teen). To prepare, set your emotional decisions and boundaries and stick to them. It can feel daunting at times, but you will thank yourself!

Above all, be kind to yourself and others.

What to drink...When you're not drinking

If you do one thing in 2024, do this. Learn how to sleep well.

Sleep - the superpower that makes me a better leader.

In 2021 I read Atomic Habits by James Clear. It's a comprehensive guide on how to change your habits and get 1% better every day. My first goal was to improve my sleep patterns.

Why?

? Historically I slept 4-5 hours a night (at best).

? The less I slept, the more I snacked.

? As the cycle continued, energy and productivity levels slumped requiring me to work longer.

? As a recovering perfectionist, I was caught up in the entrepreneurial hustle.

How?

? Thanks to ōURA I monitored sleep, readiness, activity levels and body clock to find a routine that suited me.

? I quietened my mind through reading, meditation, and Motion Nutrition's Unplug - a natural sleep nootropic to help you fall asleep faster and get more good nights.

? I stayed consistent in building a routine.

The Result:

?? Increased consistent sleep improved my energy levels, productivity, and focus.

?? Directly linked was an improvement in diet. The more I slept the less I craved sugar.

?? Equally, the increase in sleep improved my moods, ability to lead, creativity, and clarity.

Over the coming weeks I will be sharing more research based data on the power of good sleep. It's good reading, proving that sleep can accelerate your career, make you a better manager (a sleep deprived leader has a negative impact on the team they lead) and help you become more creative.

I'm enjoying building up the Well Purposed community and really appreciate your feedback and suggestions. Thanks for supporting and being a part of the journey!