So it's the first day back at work after Matariki and you check the calendar. To your dismay, the next public holiday isn't until the end of October when Labour Day falls. The third quarter of the year can be a long and tedious experience as we ride out winter and look ahead to the warmer months that are just on the horizon. Yet, it doesn't have to be all doom and gloom. We're looking at the different ways you can remain positive and upbeat in this stretch between public holidays, and how to stay healthy and optimistic.
Winter is upon us in New Zealand and it’s more likely than ever that we’ll forget to use our annual leave. Getting through the work day, battling the cold evenings to get home, and snuggling up in front of the tv or with a book become our norms, as we anticipate the warmer months that lie just over the horizon. However, the winter woes, especially after Matariki, can often catch us off guard and leave us feeling as glum as the weather outside. Here’s our top tips for combatting winter and remaining ahead of the pack at work.
This is always easier said than done (as I write this from the couch in the office), but remaining active is essential to maintain your health and wellbeing during the colder months. Especially in the 1 July to 28 October stint here in New Zealand, between Matariki and Labour Day. Keep up an exercise regime to maintain your health, register for a half marathon, or set yourself a goal for summer to help you push through.
After months of frequent public holidays, the second half of the year can be punishingly tiring. Between Matariki and Labour Day we have the majority of winter and the colder/wetter months here in New Zealand which does little to help us feel healthy and whole. To help mitigate this, use a couple of annual leave days here and there to pad out your weekends and make the experience through winter more positive.
In the winter months it’s easier to do things that are more comfortable. In summer we might go for a walk in the sun during our lunch break, yet in winter we’re more likely to eat at our desk and just keep warm. Keep an eye on these habits. Although the occasional lunch + tv show at your desk isn’t detrimental, a prolonged period of this can be. Get up from your desk and go for a walk to get a coffee, go for a quick workout or take a stroll down the street – keeping active and maintaining the same level of self-care you’d employ in summer is important!
Studies have shown that having a holiday or event planned in the near, and distant, future can help with mitigating burnout and any depression associated with long stints without breaks. Planning ahead to your next big holiday, or a weekend getaway to a town a short drive away does wonders for your mental health and gives you something to look forward to. Looking ahead to the release date of anticipated books, television shows, movies or games also has a similar impact as it keeps your mind from stagnating and keeps your days full (even if the impatience is always there!)
This even works with your regular workdays. Look forward to watching the next episode of your favourite show each Monday night, plot out a gym class every Tuesday night, schedule a dinner with family on the Wednesday etc. Planning your week is equally beneficial for your health.
With modern workplace practices, it’s easier than ever before to have a more flexible schedule. During winter, the sun tends to rise at about 7.30am, and sets around 5.00pm, meaning if you’re at work throughout this time, then you’re not likely to get much sun. This is made even worse when it gets to the weekend and it decides to rain all day! If your work can facilitate this change, then consider starting earlier/later and finishing earlier/later, or look to work from home one-to-two days per week. That way you can be sure to still get some much needed sunlight, and can experience work in different ways!
Nothing is more drab than a lacklustre workspace. Beige walls, cold stone floors and an old, uncomfortable chair, do little to elevate our mood, which can exacerbate a negative approach to other areas of our life. Add a small plant to your desk area, some art or photos from your family and friends, or your favourite mug – whatever it is, adding a bit of flavour to your workspace will do wonders for helping you stay focused and positive. This applies with your home workspace too. Ensure you use your dedicated spot for work and stay away from the couch or bed to help maintain distinction between work and home life.
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