It’s Mental Health Awareness Week here in Aotearoa New Zealand. I think we might be the only country in the world that makes a kind of national festival raising awareness of mental health. Mental health issues are reaching crisis levels around the globe. Is there anything we can do to protect our loved ones and ourselves? What can we do about caring for our mental health?
Our careers and businesses demand our constant attention. It’s easy to become caught up in the relentless pursuit of success. The pressure to excel in both our professional and personal lives can take a toll on mental health. If you recognise this in yourself there’s some things you can do to help.
There’s a valuable lesson in mindfulness practices: the importance of taking notice.
What can we do about caring for our mental health?
The Power of Taking Notice:
Take notice. Seems simple enough. It’s a fundamental aspect of mindfulness, encouraging us to be present in the moment. We become aware of our thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. Block out time in your calendar and spend some time with yourself. Sit in a park or at the beach, and take some deep breaths. Look at the environment and take notice of details that catch your eye. This practice seems simple, but it has far-reaching benefits. It’s helpful for those seeking balance and mental well-being in their lives.
Work-Life Balance:
Achieving a healthy work-life balance is essential for our mental health and productivity. It’s common that people immerse themselves in their ambitions. If that gets to the point of neglecting their personal lives, burnout becomes a real concern. By taking notice of the need for balance, we can make conscious choices. We can dedicate time and energy to both work and personal life.
Stress Management:
The demands of modern life often lead to stress, affecting mental well-being. Stress is a well-known killer. Taking notice of stress triggers and responses empowers individuals. Using stress management techniques like mindfulness meditation or deep breathing exercises can help. Stepping away from work-related tasks for a moment can help ease stress and anxiety.
Creativity and Innovation:
Incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine. It enhances creativity and innovation in your work or business. When you first take notice of your surroundings, it’s like seeing for the first time. You’re more likely to find inspiration and unique solutions to challenges. These creative perspectives can set you apart in your field.
In addition to taking notice of your surroundings, take notice of your needs. You can offset the impacts of stress with the benefits of mindfulness. With these you’ll begin navigating your work with mental clarity, creativity, and resilience. In a world that never stops, taking notice is the pause button that allows us to thrive.
Special thanks for the image by Trevor Romain © 2023