"When you STRESS, You must REST"

The working environment has evolved in many directions over the last years. Technology, social and political events, and constantly modified policies have changed the traditional working models, and with them, so did we.

The modern-day worker is a busy, fast-paced individual, struggling to compete for money and titles in a productivity race. But how does one manage to live a personal, professional, and spiritual life simultaneously? Nowadays, by giving up one for the other.?

But what does that mean for us? The constantly changing flux that we have to adapt to is a form of stress, even if we don’t notice it. The ones who adapt first and increase productivity are praised, while the rest in line have to suffer from anxiety and the constant pressure to do better.

In the end, everyone is affected, and burnout kicks in. Let's try to help all of us affected by this phenomenon and are looking to reconnect with ourselves, our friends, and families and improve the work-life balance.

Mindfulness is the key to avoiding burnout and living a healthier life.

If you ever find yourself wondering about past mistakes, feeling anxious over something that happened at work, or carrying the stress from your job to your home, then you are probably experiencing mild forms of burnout.

The negative aspect is that once it takes over, your perception of reality could become distorted due to stress, and your ability to make good decisions alters. Moreover, the more we feel uncertain about something, the more we fill that void with anxiety and overthinking, which drives us closer to burnout.

So how do we fix this vicious loop? By practicing mindfulness. For example, next time a question comes into your mind, try approaching it with curiosity rather than anxiety. Then, be more compassionate towards yourself. Think of yourself as if you are your closest friend. How would you react then?

The final step is becoming more aware of your thinking process.

Try to examine information as it comes in and learns what fuels them. Instead of just assuming the worst, it’s better to keep an objective eye and be in control of how you respond to your thoughts.

Success is the consequence of a network made of meaningful connections and supportive people.

Have you noticed how any time someone receives a prize, the first thing they do is thank the people that supported them? That is because we can’t always do everything by ourselves, and the people that circle us are a key determinant to our life.?

Knowing when to reach out for help from friends, family, or coworkers is something we should all learn. Showing vulnerability is not a sign of weakness but courage.

Successful people often seek support from the ones around them and return the favors. By communicating and helping, everyone grows.

Cultivating compassion for your colleagues is a great first step towards a meaningful network. Try to be there when they need it and kindly offer your support. Everyone appreciates a helping hand. However, you have to put yourself first, and that means knowing when to say no as well. Be balanced in your relationships.?

Then, try to diversify your network. Don’t just socialize with the people at work. Instead, meet with your family more often, enroll in a class, meet new people, or get in touch with old friends.

People who engage with others are more resilient to change, have better cognitive flexibility, and have better ideas!

Drawing a personal statement will help you find purpose and fulfillment in your work.

Take charge of your own life by creating a mission statement. Seeing what makes life meaningful for us is essentially the only reason why we do what we do. Start by asking yourself some questions like: Why do I get up in the morning? What do I really stand for? What’s my purpose??

Finding an answer to these questions allows you to truly comprehend what you’re good at and what brings you happiness, so you can start doing just that!

Finding your ‘’personal why’’ and acting on it will bring great satisfaction and joy to your life instead of causing burnout and frustration.?

To find what brings meaning to your life, try to understand what your values are. What are your core characteristics or the things most important to you? Is it family, work, passion, or something else? Then, pick five of the most important values and use them as guidance.?

Next, identify your special skills. What sets you apart, and what is it that you’re really good at? Once you find that out, look for your meaningful pursuit. What is the impact that you want to make, and why does your work matter??

Combine your values, skills, and meaningful pursuit and voilà! This is your mission statement!?