Relax! Taking Time For Yourself During the Workday Increases Productivity within Your Dental Practice
We have all had those days; back-to-back patients come in leaving no time for that turkey sandwich you packed or even a breath of fresh air. We want to relax but just can’t seem to find, or justify the time. But the truth is taking a bit of “me” time is actually necessary and despite what you may believe, it’s far from selfish. When we work nonstop without taking time to tend to our own needs, we are doing everyone around us a disservice. Taking time for yourself allows you to quickly renew and reenergize and can ultimately increase your productivity. Without it, you run the risk of burning out.
Here are a few ways you can take time for yourself even during the busiest of workdays in your dental practice.
Get a head start. Leave 30 minutes earlier than normal. The less rushed you feel the less stressed you will be throughout the day. Not to mention you will probably miss that dreadful rush hour traffic.
Plan downtime. Breaks are always a good idea even just for five minutes. In addition to taking breaks, plan some downtime during your lunch or directly after work. Whether you like running, yoga, pedicures, or massages, make them a priority and schedule them in.
Bring healthy snacks and hydrate. Maybe you don’t have time for a full three-course lunch but you can definitely make time for protein bars, dried fruit, and nuts. Not eating can cause your blood sugar levels to drop leaving you feeling lethargic and increasing your chances of becoming stressed. Hydrating is the most important thing you can do throughout your workday. Our bodies are made up of 65% water, how do you expect to function properly without it?
Compliment yourself. Lets face it; most of us don’t give ourselves enough compliments. In fact, we often do just the opposite. When you have completed a task successfully, tell yourself out loud, “good job”. That burst of confidence will help you maintain your calm amongst the workplace madness.
Get moving. Go for a walk around the building, even if it is just 5 minutes, the fresh air and sunshine will boost your mood instantly. Also try stretching periodically throughout the day by reaching your arms up or by doing some lunges. Getting your blood flowing after sitting for hours can give you a boost of much needed energy.
Socialize with coworkers. It can be easy to get so caught up in your work that you forget to notice those around you. Socialize by eating in break room, but try not to talk about work. The break time should be relaxed and friendly, allowing you an opportunity to escape.
Remind yourself why. Why do you get up and go to work each morning? Is it to take your family on a European trip or to get out of debt? Figure out your why and then put it where you can easily see it. Create a vision board to hang in your office or frame a picture of your family. Having a reminder of the reasons you are working so hard will help you remember why in times of chaos.
Like a road trip, you cannot drive for 8 hours without a pit stop. Taking time for yourself during the workday can be very beneficial to your productivity and your overall mental health. By striving to make little changes like these, you should find yourself less stressed and more in control of your life.
Written by Cathy Warschaw, CPC, ELI-MP
Founder & Make It Happen Coach
www.UpAllNightCoaching.com/dental
800.660.6707
© Up All Night Coaching, 2016
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Edited by Dental Practice Pro®, DPP Inc.
