It’s Time to Thrive Instead of Survive

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The modern day work world is filled with challenges and competing priorities. Whether you’re a top executive who is expected to deliver positive quarterly results in addition to being a visionary who leads thousands of people, or you are the person with12 hours of work to do each day, it seems survival mode has become the new working norm.

If you feel you are working in survival mode, not to worry, you are not alone. In fact, if you look at the upward trend of employee burnout and mental health challenges in the workplace, this type of “living” is taking a toll on people and organizations. Given the rapid pace of change in our culture, it’s important to start using new strategies that will allow you to thrive instead of simply surviving.

Here are a few strategies to help you get started:

Create your own social construct

Not so long ago, people actually worked 40 hours a week while resting at night and on weekends. It’s hard to believe, but true. Now, with the advancement of technology and a global marketplace, people find themselves working 24/7. In order for you to thrive, you must build your own social construct, allowing yourself quality downtime to rest and relax, and yes, just to have some fun. Too often when we try to do this, we end-up feeling guilty, so we start doing something work-related. High-level performers know that in order to thrive they must establish social boundaries around the use of their time and energy.

Remove negative stressors

In a culture of information overload there are new forms of stressors appearing that no other generation has ever had to deal with. From the negative evening news we hear, to the new phenomenon of “digital stress,” these are all sources of negative energy that can rob us of our ability to creatively solve problems and maintain our focus on the task at hand.

Feeling a little drained or negative lately? Try spending less time on social media and watching negative news. I guarantee when you do this, your energy levels will start to soar, and you will notice improved concentration.

Start moving

Did you know that after 20 minutes of sitting at your desk, your brain starts to go into hibernation? It’s no wonder sitting is now being referred to as the “new smoking”. By getting up and moving around every hour, your brain reactivates and your thinking improves. Take it a step further, by working out consistently, your brain becomes more alert, and the cells start to change and form new neural pathways, allowing you to learn at a faster rate. Exercise gives your body and mind the ability to thrive during challenging times.

Try some of these strategies, and will soon move from survival mode to thrive mode!

All the best in achieving your highest performance.

Paul

Image courtesy of Ambro at FreeDigitalPhotos.net