NEWS & VIEWS • MARCH 2025 13 Start this holistic healing journey by prioritising “Self-Care.” I know what most people think, selfcare is so selfish… no it is not, it’s essential. When you’re physically and mentally well, you’re better equipped to handle life’s demands. Start by getting enough sleep, aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Eating well is mandatory, fuel your body with nutritious meals to maintain energy levels. Exercising regularly does not translate into a 10km run, even a short walk or stretch break can reduce stress, boost your mood, and clear your mind in order to achieve better focus. You must take mental breaks regularly. Practice mindfulness, meditation, or simply take a few minutes to breathe deeply during the day. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself ensures you have the energy to care for others and perform at your best. Balancing work and personal life require clear boundaries. You would need to stick to defined work hours, work hard during your scheduled work times and avoid overextending yourself by unnecessarily working after hours. Learn to say no to additional tasks if you’re already stretched thin, explain this to your line manager as blunt refusal will land you in trouble. Try to unplug after work, if possible, minimise work emails and notifications during personal time to recharge. Setting boundaries helps prevent burnout and allows you to be fully present in both your professional and personal life. Time management is key to staying on top of your responsibilities. Focus on what’s urgent and important first. Break tasks into smaller steps, it makes large projects feel more manageable. Use tools like calendars, to-do lists, or even some clever apps can help you stay organised. Avoid multitasking, focus on one task at a time to improve efficiency and reduce stress. Life’s challenges can sometimes cloud our perspective. Practising gratitude can help shift your focus to the positive aspects of your life. Try keeping a gratitude journal, write down three things you’re grateful for each day. Celebrating small wins in your life, acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small. Surrounding yourself with positivity. Spend time with people who uplift and inspire you. A positive mindset can improve resilience and help you navigate tough times with greater ease. Whether at work or at home, open communication is vital. If you’re struggling, talk to your manager, a trusted colleague, or a loved one. Sharing your concerns can lighten the load and help you find solutions. Remember, you’re not alone, many people face similar challenges, and there’s strength in seeking and offering support. You don’t have to face challenges alone. Our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) is called: Discovery Healthy Company and is here to help. The EAP offers free consultations with qualified counsellors whether you’re dealing with stress, relationship issues, or financial concerns, professional support is just a call away. The EAP is administered by Discovery and your privacy is respected; you can seek help without fear of judgment. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to contact the EAP helpline, it’s a valuable resource designed to help you thrive. If you see a colleague struggling, remind them of the EAP and its benefits. Life is a balancing act, and it’s normal to feel stretched at times. By prioritising self-care, setting boundaries, managing your time, and seeking support when needed, you can navigate life’s challenges more effectively. Remember, our Employee Assistance Programme is here to help you every step of the way. Let’s work together to create a supportive environment where we can all thrive, both at work and in our personal lives. You’ve got this, and we’ve got your back! Contact the Discovery Healthy Company today: Call 0800 320 420 toll free from a landline or a cell phone. Access Healthy Company on the Discovery App or on the website www.discovery. co.za. Confidential and available 24/7. Let’s take the first step toward a healthier, more balanced life together.
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