According to the American Institute of Stress, stress is something we all deal with and engaging with dialogue around yours and others’ is one of the most valuable ways to combat stress when it arises. Although stress and anxiety often results from external events or circumstances, I’ve discovered that there are many times that my stress has been brought on by personal insecurities and perfectionism. Both areas that I’m working on consciously. Because I’m single and live alone, most of my stress comes from work. As we close out Stress Awareness Month and the last #RealWorldWednesday of April, I wanted to share the top three ways I manage work stress and anxiety.
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Jasmine's Journey: 2021 Q1 Update /
Spring is here, and Q2 is in full swing. As I reflect on the first three months of the year, I'm excited about all that is in store for the coming months. While working toward the goals I set in January, I'm proud of my progress and prepared to overcome my challenges.
I’m a firm believer in celebrating victories, large and small, and practicing gratitude along the way. Here I’ve outlined the highlights, wins and challenges of my year so far in effort to chronicle my journey and hold myself accountable.
Read MoreTen ways to escape technology and recharge while working remotely /
During my previous roles social media was a welcomed escape from work, and I often turned to one of the many apps during my breaks for quick updates, laughs, inspiration and more. In my current position as a marketing and communications manager, screen-time in this period of remote work has grown to 100% of my role, and now I’m trying to be intentional about giving my eyes an escape from digital and social media any chance I can.
There have been many studies and experts who attest to the need for breaks during the day, not to mention the right granted by law. Everyone who works a eight-hour workday should take a minimum of three breaks during the day including two paid rest breaks and one meal break lasting 30 minutes to an hour. While these periods and the time granted vary across different states, companies and organizations, there is usually a similar standard. See your employee handbook or the state labor and employment guidelines for specifics. Below are ten activities to clear your mind, maximize your time and achieve productivity on your next break that have worked for me.
Read More21 Questions for self-auditing and self-reflection /
Since joining TGR Foundation, the annual staff retreat is something I’ve looked forward to because I’m a big fan of personal and professional development, and it gives the staff time to take a break from the work and reconnect to each other and our why. After enduring five months of a global pandemic and the heightened awareness of and spotlight on racial divisions, I’ll admit I was emotionally drained a little less excited this year about the idea of a virtual retreat. The committee exceeded my expectations and planned and executed a great two-day retreat.
Including interactive small group activities and covering topics from Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, to personal and professional development, the two days of workshops were insightful and inspirational. We explored our personal values, wellness exercises like Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) Tapping and more. As I think back on the retreat and look forward to a new season, I’m sharing quotes and 20 questions that were asked and emerged throughout the training as I continue the ongoing process of self-reflection and self-auditing. Whether thinking through the answers or writing them down, they can all lead to action and significant change.
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