Mental Wellbeing in the Workplace: A Holistic Approach
I recently attended the Women in Tech Salesforce user group event, and the discussion on mental wellbeing in the workplace was really interesting. As someone who is particularly passionate about this topic, I was keen to hear the speaker's perspective.
The presentation focused primarily on mental strategies for managing stress, such as meditation and mindfulness, talking to friends and family, and self-care. While these tools are undoubtedly valuable, I believe a truly holistic approach to mental wellbeing should also encompass physical activity and sustainable practices. And in our Salesforce-centric world, a clear head and healthy habits can make all the difference in navigating complex orgs and solutions!
In my own experience, physical exercise has made a significant difference to my mental health. Even taking a brisk walk before work or during my lunch break helps me clear my head, and I often find that my best ideas come to me while I'm moving. The fresh air, physical movement, and change of scenery all contribute to improved creativity and problem-solving. Plus, choosing to walk instead of driving is a simple way to reduce my environmental impact. As Salesforce professionals, we're primarily problem-solvers, so anything that boosts those mental gears is a plus!
It's well-documented that regular exercise can help to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. This is because exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. They also have knock-on effects such as boosting confidence and self-belief, something we can probably all do with a little bit more of in our work environment sometimes. Additionally, physical activity supports cardiovascular health, which is linked to better cognitive function and mental clarity. When exercising, choosing a local green space combines the benefits of movement with the restorative qualities of nature. Even a quick walk to a nearby park between meetings can make a difference to how switched-on you can be in the next session.
Therefore, I'd like to encourage employers, especially those in the tech industry, to consider promoting physical activity and sustainable choices as part of their mental wellbeing initiatives. For bigger companies this could involve providing on-site fitness facilities, but for smaller companies it could just be organizing group activities, or simply encouraging employees to take regular breaks for movement. (In fact, one of my favourite professionals, Joe Wicks, is doing just that in early March with his ‘Movement Hour’.)
Supporting sustainable practices, such as cycling to work or using public transport, can also contribute to a healthier environment and alleviate stress related to environmental concerns. Perhaps even an indoor-cycling charity fundraiser for an upcoming Salesforce event!
In conclusion, while mental techniques like taking a moment to breathe are vital for workplace wellbeing, a holistic approach that incorporates physical exercise and sustainable practices is key to achieving optimal results. By integrating mental, physical, and sustainable strategies, we can create a more supportive, productive, and environmentally responsible work environment for everyone—and maybe even troubleshoot those tricky Salesforce issues with a clearer mind.
When we look after ourselves and the planet, work becomes a much happier and healthier place for everyone.
-Anja Porter
