In Part 1 I talked a bit about how it was for me when my soul wasn’t nourished at work. I asked some questions to help you know what it would be like for you if your soul was fed, and I invited you to think about all the things you love.
When I was feeling soul-less, my listlessness meant that I stopped all the other activities that could have helped me cope better. I came to think there wasn’t much point to anything and my sense of perspective went out the window. If this is you, then taking time to add a little richness to your life in other ways will help you build resilience at work. Resilience helps you cope better with stress and fatigue – both signs of an under-nourished soul.
As well as the questions and exercise in Part One, I invite you to choose at least one of the ideas below and give it a go for a couple of weeks and see what difference it makes.
Exercise – a fit body = a healthier mind
Good nutrition – food = energy. Simple!
Being in nature – find your favourite spot and just be
Laughter – book a night out with your best mate and have some fun
Creativity – dance, draw, make music, design something, write, sing
Meditation – sit quietly and concentrate on your breath for just 5 minutes each day
Love – how many of your thoughts come from love? How many from fear? Tip the balance in favour of loving thoughts, in particular the ones you have about yourself.
Volunteer – you help make a difference and gain a sense of belonging
Anything you enjoy – do more of!
In short, feeding your soul in all areas of your life will help how you feel about your work, not least because it provides perspective. It’s easier to address issues in a more positive and open-minded way when you’ve gained perspective. In most cases, our work is not the be all and end all, even though it’s easy to feel that way when it’s not going well.
I love the phrase ‘be open to possibility’. No-one’s soul was ever nourished with a closed mind. Exploring your possibilities can help open up new opportunities. If this is something you could benefit from, you’ll enjoy my free e-workbook, Exploring Possibility. It will take you through a deep process of connection to your thoughts and feelings about your current career, and move you closer to some ideas about what you could do differently. Alternatively, come along to one of my Exploring Possibility Workshops where I’ll guide you through the process in person.
In Part 3, I take you through some ideas to help you nourish your soul in the workplace.
For more information about my workshops, or 121 coaching then please contact me.
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