Across the country, a movement is underway, people are taking their self-care seriously and the pay off includes prosperity. This May while moms enjoy a day of celebration with pampering, top achievers in the business world might consider joining them with rest and relaxation. Research indicates that healthy habits developed out of the office contribute to higher performance within it. In fact, Harvard is even offering a free course through the edX platform called “Improving Your Business Through a Culture of Health.”
But where do professionals start with their health routine when they are accustomed to an active work schedule with little precious downtime or the overwhelming sense of guilt each time they log off from the online world?
The answer is with their mindset. Mindset is simply a belief in a particular topic yet its implications are remarkably complex. The busy employee or traveling CFO legitimately might not feel they deserve to take the time before their work day for a 30 minute walk or to eat their healthy salad without simultaneously reading a report. A shift needs to take place in their belief that spending time on their wellbeing with positive habits will actually free up time later, result in better work decisions and ultimately lead to more wins.
Knowing what to do – eating a healthy diet and prioritizing sleep – is different than putting the principles into practice to get results. There will always be another email to send or phone call to answer but skipping a workout is harder to compensate for. Optimizing wellness is a series of steps practiced over a period of time that results in huge benefits. By transforming mindset, professionals can ultimately view each action they take as an opportunity for better health.
Mindset Mentor and Certified Nutrition Coach, Emily Judice works daily with successful women in corporate positions who are looking to balance their lifestyles both in the boardroom and at home.
“Health is wealth. What if a 30 minute workout and a balanced breakfast helped you move through your work quicker because your brain was sharper? You worked more efficiently and produced higher quality work. And because of that, you eventually got promoted, or you were able to take on more clients? The result? You make more money. Can you imagine a whole company operating at this level?”
Companies recognize this which is why they invest in wellness programs. Approximately 50% of companies with 50 or more employees in the United States have wellness programs within their infrastructures. According to research by Zippia, the average return on wellness programs is six-to-one. In addition, employers reported up to 18% less absenteeism, 72% of companies said they reduced overall health care expenses and 84% saw higher productivity and performance.
But what if someone doesn’t have a company program to rely on or isn’t motivated to partake in what is available?
Here is what they can change today according to Emily:
- Start improving mindset by reading 10 pages a day of a personal development book or listen to audiobooks on the commute.
- Set a timer and take several 5-10 minute walks throughout the workday. Movement creates momentum and will break up sedentary periods.
- Eat lunch in silence without scrolling on a phone for at least 10 minutes. Give your mind a much-needed break.
Small, consistent changes add up and can yield significant results. Knowing what to do is no longer enough, implementation is necessary. It’s time for high achieving professionals to grant themselves permission to invest in their health routines that will pay off in professional success and personal well-being.
Heather Hays is the author of “The Business Diaries – Ten Start-up Secrets for the Female Entrepreneur.” Heatherhays.co
Emily Judice, Certified Nutrition Coach and Mindset Mentor can be found on Instagram and Youtube @emilyeatsandchats