How to be Happy, not SAD at work

By Joanie LaFemina

Many people struggle in the winter months with the average winter blahs and some struggle with something stronger, SAD…yes, it can be sad…but typically it stands for Seasonal Affective Disorder. According to the Mayo Clinic: Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that’s related to changes in seasons — SAD begins and ends at about the same times every year. If you’re like most people with SAD, your symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months, sapping your energy and making you feel moody. A doctor may be able to assist if you are severely effected.

Either way, whether you are mildly or strongly impacted, how can you remain energized during the months of hibernation? Try some of these simple tips to stay focused and on track.

Add Sunshine to your work space

Why? Well, exposure to Vitamin D while working is not only good for the soul but also good for the mind. Evidence suggests that exposure to Vitamin D can reduce the risk of diseases that affect the brain, enhance nerve conduction and signals, regulate the immune system and rid the body of toxins. So soak up those rays and choose a work space near a window, or as close to one as you can get.

De-Clutter!

Keep your work space neat and clean, dusted and ready to go. When you clear out the cobwebs in your physical space it helps keep your mind clear. It helps you to focus on the task at hand instead of being distracted by the constant to-do list.

Add Plants

Remember back in your elementary science class when you learned about photosynthesis and that plants take in carbon dioxide and produce oxygen? Adding some foliage to your space doesn’t only make it more beautiful, but it actually makes the air you’re breathing cleaner!

Plants + clean air = brain power! 

Celebrate Inspiration

Your workspace needs to be an inspiring place for you. If you find it bland and dull, your work will reflect how you feel. Find something that motivates you: photos, inspirational quotes, paintings. Whatever you choose, find something that connects with you and add it to your space!

Make your space a reflection of you

You want to be able to sit down in your space and feel that this space is yours. Adding mementos and highlights from your life make you feel good and will help create a positive space. Pictures from trips, pictures of friends or family, and fun items that show your spirit. If you are planning a vacation, post a picture of the location to have an exciting goal to look forward to…

To wrap it up: find ways to eat well, get plenty of vitamins and exercise.

Call your experienced, licensed agent at Hometown Insurance today at 1-800-568-SAVE (7283) or email service@hometowninsurance.com . We would be happy to help you out of the doldrums with quality coverage and great rates for major insurance companies!

Bonus Checklist:

Checklist: 10 Things to Accomplish this Year!

Download Checklist

This is the year to complete those outstanding organizing tasks. The things you know you should organize, but never seem to get the time. What better way to start than with this checklist. Make your life easier – today and in the future by completing these organizing tasks.