05/12/2021

Five Ways Young Professionals Can Prioritize Their Workplace Well-being

COVID has made the discussion around mental health more important than ever

As the global pandemic rages on and workplaces shift their perspective on remote work from a short-term solution to a long-term reality, the discussion around workers’ mental health and well-being is more important than ever. Every demographic has its own set of unique challenges during these times, and young professionals are no exception. YPs may be more likely to live alone and away from their families, exacerbating feelings of loneliness and isolation. Some YPs may be living and working in less-than-ideal conditions—eating, sleeping and working in a tiny studio apartment—while others may be trying to juggle working from home with caring for or schooling small children. Whatever your challenges, prioritizing your mental well-being in the current climate is an imperative. Here are some tips to get you started:

Declutter your workspace. One simple thing that works wonders for mental clarity and focus is to begin each day with a fresh, decluttered workspace. Each morning, channel your inner Marie Kondo and tidy away anything that doesn’t “spark joy”. File your papers, organize your pens and paperclips, and for the love of Pete, clean the cookie crumbs out of your keyboard. Even if you are working in a confined space, aim to make your desk a little oasis of calm. Think about investing in a low maintenance plant: studies have shown that plants can improve concentration and productivity by up to 15 percent, reduce stress levels and boost your mood. Some people swear by light therapy boxes or sun lamps that mimic the mood-boosting effects of natural sunlight. And if you want to feel extra Zen, consider lighting a small candle and setting an intention for the day ahead.

Take advantage of employee benefits. Many organizations provide access to an array of useful benefits that employees do not always take advantage of. It may be worth scheduling a chat with your HR representative to identify any potential benefits you might be missing out on. For example, some employers offer the option to enroll in a flexible spending account, which allows you to set aside a pre-tax portion of each paycheck to pay for eligible out-of-pocket medical expenses, like contact lenses or adult braces. Some employers also provide membership to an employee assistance program, which gives employees access to free professional counseling services to address issues—such as stress and anxiety and legal or financial worry—that may be affecting your work performance or overall well-being.

Please select this link to read the complete article from ASAE's Center for Association Leadership.