From upset patients and customers, to being understaffed, to feeling just plain exhausted—there are certainly several things that can get even the best and most enthusiastic healthcare professionals down. Fortunately, even in the midst of chaos, there are quick and simple strategies you can implement to get into a better mood—instantly. Take note of the tips below:
- Get sunlight (or artificial light) as soon as you wake up. A University of Toronto study of more than 450 women found that those who got the most light, particularly in the morning, reported better moods and sleep.
- Set small goals you know you can achieve. You’re never going to feel satisfied if your days seem like an endless circle without any reward or happy closure. Set a small goal that means something to you, and more importantly that you know you can achieve.
- Stand up straight. It’s so simple and you’ll instantly feel better. In fact, experts note that when you maintain a tall and open stance, you’ll feel more confident and levels of the stress hormone cortisol will decrease.
- Take three minutes to organize your work area/station. Clutter can make you feel overwhelmed and disorganized. So, straighten up a few items on your desk or work area. Even the illusion of order can ease the mind!
- Reframe a negative situation. Stuck in traffic? You just got 30 minutes of meditation time. Have to stay late at work? You’re making a great impression on the boss. Make an effort to find the silver lining in any negative situation—the more optimistic you are, the better you will feel.
- Focus on your strengths. Lousy cook? Terrible writer? Horrible public speaker? Don’t dwell on it any longer, and let it go today. Instead, place a sharp focus on what you’re good at, and further develop those talents.
- Reward yourself every day (yes, every day!) It doesn’t have to be anything big—20 minutes to read, watching your favorite show, a walk with a friend. Find healthy things that bring you joy and you’ll have a lot to look forward to every day.
“Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions.”
―Dalai Lama XIV