I’ve observed that at this time of year and especially this year people seemed to be at their most exhausted level in their jobs. There are many possible reasons for this—hitting the ground running after time off during the holidays, trying to meet all their personal New Year’s goals, and the long winter months.  I think the biggest reason is that too many people are not prioritizing taking care of themselves and their health.  To be at your best in your work, you must invest in your physical and mental health. Again, in our current environment, it’s even more critical.

I rarely see goals around mental and physical health appear in people’s “Top 12 lists” when they are in career transition and considering what they want in their next career move.  I realize it is challenging to carve out time for your own health when the demands of the job are over the top. Our culture tends to be all about working yourself to death. We die—literally—for our jobs, despite the fact that we see time and again that companies will continue without us, no matter how many sacrifices you made and the hours you invested in it.

You must make intentional, conscious decisions to live counter to that culture in your own life.  You cannot expect to sacrifice your wellness over decades and have a flourishing career and fulfilling life.  After the challenges of 2020, we’re seeing burnout like never before.  But I’ll warn you that I’ve seen the mental anguish of burnout transform into physical distress too many times.  This is a dangerous situation, but one that can be avoided.  

For this next year, I challenge you to build self-care into your program and be committed to it. I am not talking about a total life overhaul.  We think we have to put hours and hours into a health and wellness plan to make it worthwhile. But even a few minutes a day will make an impact and build habits.

Click here to read four ways to begin investing in yourself.