5 Productive Self-Care Ideas for Busy Professionals

Giving yourself time to recharge mentally, physically and emotionally after a stressful week is a must.

For some working professionals, self-care is a second thought. Or third. Or fourth. Or not at all. What’s more, when some professionals actually think about it, they struggle to direct themselves toward an enjoyable activity.

But that’s exactly what they need.

Make Self-Care a Priority

If you’re looking for new ways to engage in something you’ll enjoy while also maximizing your time, try these options.

Read a Book

Reading a book can be relaxing as well as rewarding. Whether you’re interested in fiction or non-fiction, self-help or drama, there are so many books worth trying.

If you find it difficult to sit down and read a physical book, audiobooks are an option for your commute or exercise time. Reading can also be a relaxing way to learn and develop yourself. Check out some of our recommended reading for professional development:

• The Leadership Innovation Manifesto by Dr. Kim Hires
• The Confidence Code by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman
• Lead from the Outside by Stacey Abrams, and
• Spark by Angie Morgan, Courtney Lynch, and Sean Lynch.

Talk It Out

Sometimes, just talking to someone we trust about how we’re feeling is a good way to reduce stress. Knowing that someone else understands and supports you through the difficulties you’re dealing with can make stress feel a lot less isolating.

Try talking to a trusted mentor to help relieve the stress you face in your professional life while getting some actionable advice. Or access the tools available through your organization’s benefits plans. These days, nearly all companies have some form of mental well-being benefits that include tools to help all employees manage stress and burnout.

Listen to Podcasts

The number of podcasts available today is practically endless, so no matter what subject interests you, you’ll be able to find a selection of podcasts that cover what’s important. Look for comedy, current events, culture, hobbies, and anything else that interests you.

Specifically geared to professional women, we produce “Women’s Leadership Today,” a podcast to help you develop professionally – tune in today!

Take a Walk Outside

Sometimes the best way to clear your head is to step away from work and get fresh air.

A short walk outside — whether it’s around the block, through a nearby park or circling your parking lot — can help reset your focus and ease tension you didn’t even realize you were carrying.

Plus, when you get some sunlight (even if it’s covered by clouds) and movement into your day — for just 10 or 15 minutes — you can boost your mood and give yourself a fresh perspective on the challenges you face. It doesn’t have to be a big production; even a quick stroll during a break can make a noticeable difference in how you feel for the rest of the day.

Take a Nap

Getting enough sleep is essential when dealing with stress. A good night’s rest can help revitalize you and relieve the anxiety you might be experiencing along with your stress. But even a 20-minute power nap can be beneficial for your physical and mental health. It’s been proven that a well-rested mind is more efficient and productive. So get more done by doing a little less – set aside some time to wind down and rest.

Self-care is important, so if you find yourself trying to manage your stress levels more often, it’s a sign that you need to get focused on your own well-being. Finding ways to relax and refresh while staying productive can help you be ready for another week without becoming overwhelmed.