Office work can be stressful, especially when there’s a lot going on (and there constantly is). On top of too much sitting and often inefficient communication, there are also many other less-noticed stressors.
Needless to say, stress can lead to real physical illness, so it is necessary to prevent it any cost. Even though not everyone can be happy at all times for one reason or another, there are certainly some things everyone can undertake to make their work life happier.
Add to that the rising awareness of the global warming and the looming ecological disaster, and you’ll see a couple of bad habits we all have need to change for the better, and fast.
Leaving the perplexities of the overall betterment of work environment to the management, let’s see what each individual can do without much fuss to become happier, healthier and more productive.
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1. Walk Whenever, Wherever You Can
Need we say that sitting for too long is the most worrisome aspect of the hectic lifestyles we all lead?
Even though you can always take a short break to stretch your muscles, you should also take every chance available to walk more. Take the stairs whenever possible and walk to work if your home isn’t too far away.
If you have to drive, think about going electric and make use of the EV federal incentives. In this way, you’ll help the planet and also save considerable sums of money in the long run.
2. Set Both Green and Healthy Goals
It is extremely important to set goals. When it comes to work, nothing can beat efficient task and time management, but the effort doesn’t have to stop there.
Why not consider setting health goals as well?
For example, you can start your transition towards a healthier and happier lifestyle by changing your eating habits (especially in terms of snacks!) and trying something new.
Put a bowl with fresh fruit on your desk. Whenever you need a snack, a healthy option will be close at hand.
Next on, set some green goals. For example, you can start using only recycled paper and bring a mug and a hand towel from home. Begin using LED bulbs, which save energy by a long shot.
Finally, if your company has a sustainability team, learn as much as you can and contribute with your own ideas. Use all the perks at your disposal – the gym and other recreational facilities.
3. Learn More Online
Many things can be done to lead a healthier lifestyle and stay (or become) eco-friendly, so why not consider eLearning options?
Nowadays, much can be found online, so use the opportunity to deepen your knowledge and learn about sustainable alternatives you’re not aware of.
For example, there are plenty of courses dealing with sustainability and corporate sustainability, sustainable materials management, sustainable development, environmental management, sustainable digital innovation, reducing your environmental impact, and so on. Pick a course that interests you and learn more about this important topic.
The best thing? Many of these courses are free! There’s nothing wrong with platforms offering free courses; you don’t have to major in sustainability, just learn to live a more meaningful and eco-friendly life.
Next on, you can subscribe to newsletters and free magazines offering useful tips on the matter. Look up the offer; you might be surprised at how many options there are. Connect with like-minded people and develop your own ideas if you’re up to it. Anything that makes you lead a more meaningful life is fine.
4. Adapt Your Office Space
Finally, make your office space pleasant, enjoyable and eco-friendly. There are so many things you can easily do to make your working hours more pleasant and relaxing.
If you sit too much and think short breaks for muscle stretching aren’t enough (and they usually aren’t), consider obtaining a standing desk. They can do wonders for leg cramps and back pain, and there are many different options from which to choose.
According to health experts, the perfect ratio is to spend one hour standing for every one to two hours sitting. Standing desks are adjustable, so you can easily do exactly that.
Further out, if your office space is gloomy, bring in some plants. Among the plants commonly brought to the office are devil’s ivy, jade plants, ZZ plants, snake plants, succulents and cacti, peace lily and bamboos. These can thrive in both sunny and shady offices.
Anything else that comes to mind that will feel your office warmer is acceptable. E.g., add a photo of your loved ones or any detail that will make your office livelier.
Everything considered, make the most of your time spent at the office, which you have made to be as pleasant as it can get. Use all resources at your disposal and be creative – a nice arrangement can be enough to make your day!