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Building Habits for Well-Being
One of my biggest realizations over the years has been that well-being at work isn't just an ideal, it’s essential. It’s not just about grand gestures or elaborate programs; it’s about the simple, consistent habits that make well-being a part of everyday life.
In a fast-paced and demanding work environment, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and lose sight of taking care of ourselves. We’ve all been there pushing through long hours, skipping breaks, and convincing ourselves that we’ll make time for well-being later. But the truth is, well-being can’t be something we put off for a better time. It needs to be woven into the fabric of how we work every day.
The key lies in habits; small, repeatable actions that gradually become part of our routine. Instead of aiming for drastic changes that feel daunting, we can start with manageable habits that fit seamlessly into our lives. It’s about making well-being practical, sustainable, and something we naturally do without even thinking about it.
Start Small and Stay Consistent
One of the most powerful aspects of building habits is that they don’t need to be overwhelming to be effective. Every author on habits shares that starting small and focusing on frequency not duration is the best way to build. Start with something small, like taking five minutes every morning to practice deep breathing or setting a daily reminder to stretch. The idea is to focus on consistency rather than intensity. Small habits practiced regularly lead to lasting change.
For example, consider the habit of setting boundaries for work hours. Instead of trying to overhaul your entire routine, start by committing to one boundary—like logging off at a specific time each day. Once that becomes second nature, you can build on it by adding another habit, like disconnecting from devices an hour before bed.
Lead by Example
As leaders and coaches, it’s important to model these habits ourselves. We can’t just talk about well-being; we need to live it. That means taking breaks, setting boundaries, and showing our teams that self-care is not just acceptable, it’s encouraged. Sharing our own well-being habits not only makes them feel more attainable but also sets the tone for a supportive culture.
Why It Matters
When we build well-being habits, we’re not just taking care of ourselves, we’re influencing the entire culture of our organization. When people see leadership prioritizing well-being, it gives them permission to do the same. It sends the message that being healthy and balanced isn’t a distraction from work, it’s a fundamental part of being effective and resilient.
By making well-being habits part of our daily lives, we build a culture where people feel valued and supported. It’s not about perfection or grand gestures, it’s about making consistent choices that nurture our health and happiness.
So, I encourage you to start small, be intentional, and focus on building habits that make well-being feel natural and sustainable. Let’s make well-being a way of life, not just an occasional effort.
My best,
Dr. Peggy
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