We're all living in a world where "busy" feels like the norm. Juggling personal responsibilities, work demands, and all of life’s ups and downs can sometimes leave us feeling stretched, tired, and even a bit disconnected from ourselves. And while we’re often reminded to keep an eye on our physical health, our mental health can sometimes feel overlooked.
I decided to write this blog because I have been struggling with this, and I know I am not the only one. So, let’s dive in...
You see, as I approach 20 weeks of pregnancy, I can’t help but feel the weight of some very real worries pressing on me- thoughts about the future, finances (this is a big one), and the loaded question of how I’m going to make it all work. I’ve struggled with my mental health in the past, and I was determined not to let myself return to that place. I had envisioned this time as one of excitement and joy, filled with that “pregnancy glow” everyone talks about. And don’t get me wrong- it’s still an incredibly special time, but the stress I’ve been carrying has affected me more than I’d like to admit. I’ve noticed how it’s impacted my outlook, my work, and my personal life, leaving me feeling overwhelmed in moments that I had hoped would be pure joy. It’s a reminder of how mental health is so closely tied to our daily lives, and why taking care of it, especially now, is essential.
Mental health isn’t just about getting through life without feeling overwhelmed. It’s about feeling balanced, focused, and well. Inside and out.
And it turns out, when we’re not feeling well mentally, it can affect our work and our productivity in ways we might not even realise
How Mental Health Can Impact Your Work Life:
1.
It Can Become Harder to Focus
Ever had one of those days where you sit down at your desk, but your mind is elsewhere? Maybe you’re feeling anxious or your mind is racing. That mental fog can make it tough to concentrate, affecting your ability to get tasks done effectively. When this happens more often, it can start to chip away at your productivity- and it’s totally understandable. Our minds need space and care just like our bodies do.
2.
Motivation Can Fade
When we’re feeling low or disconnected, even the work we once enjoyed can feel like a heavy lift. That spark of motivation might start to feel distant, which can make staying productive harder. This isn’t a reflection of your commitment but rather a reminder that you deserve some care and time to recharge.
3.
Creative Problem-Solving Gets Tough
Stress and mental fatigue can make it harder to think clearly, let alone creatively. Those solutions and fresh ideas that once came naturally may feel harder to access. Taking care of your mental well-being can help bring that clarity back, allowing you to feel like yourself again.
How to Gently Support Your Mental Health:
1.
Practice Self-Care in Small, Meaningful Ways
Self-care can be as simple as taking a few moments to breathe deeply, enjoying a walk, or setting aside time to unwind. These little moments of care can make a big difference in helping you feel grounded.
2.
Connect with Someone You Trust
Talking things over with a friend, family member, or mental health professional can help you feel supported and heard. Opening up about what you’re going through can bring relief and perspective.
3.
Set Boundaries Where You Need Them
Whether it’s saying no to extra tasks or taking breaks, learning to set boundaries is essential. Boundaries protect your time and energy, allowing you to care for yourself and stay focused on what matters most.
4.
Stay Physically Active and Nourished
Simple things like movement, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep can do wonders for your mental health. When we take care of our bodies, we’re also supporting our minds.
5.
Practice "Single-tasking"
In a world where multitasking is often seen as essential, single-tasking can be a powerful mental health practice. When we focus on one task at a time, we allow our minds to fully engage, reducing mental strain and fostering a sense of accomplishment. Single-tasking helps professionals avoid feeling constantly overwhelmed by multiple responsibilities and deadlines, allowing for a calmer, more mindful approach to work.
One way to start single-tasking is to create a prioritised to-do list and tackle tasks sequentially. Setting clear, focused blocks of time for each item on your list can minimise distractions and improve both efficiency and mental well-being.
6.
Set “Tech-Free” Boundaries
For many professionals, the constant stream of emails, notifications, and messages can feel overwhelming and contribute to mental fatigue. Establishing specific “tech-free” times- whether it’s during meals, the first hour of your morning, or the hour before bedtime- gives your mind a chance to rest and recharge.
During these breaks, try stepping away from screens entirely. Engage in an offline activity, like reading, journaling, or simply taking a walk. This break from technology not only reduces stress but also helps you approach tasks with more clarity and focus when you return to work.
Now, you might be asking me: "Shona, you just wrote all this down, you have the tools. Why are you still struggling?" My answer is simple. I'm trying. But it's a process and if I may quote Lao Tzu: "The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."
And as Peter Marshall said: "Small deeds done are better than great deeds planned."
I would like to leave you with this final reminder: You deserve to feel your best.
Your mental health isn’t something that has to be “fixed” or “worked on”- it’s something that deserves gentle, ongoing care. By investing in your mental well-being, you’re not just enhancing your work life; you’re nurturing a life that feels fulfilling, balanced, and meaningful.
Remember, taking care of yourself is never a waste of time. It’s a step toward showing up for yourself and your work with the energy, clarity, and motivation that you deserve.
Staff Training is a South African soft skills training provider with more than 80 workshops on offer.
Email us at
info@StaffTraining.co.za for more info or give us a call at 0861 996 660
