Wellness is often perceived as a personal journey, but its impact extends far beyond the individual. In the context of both the workplace and the classroom, wellness becomes a critical factor in performance and engagement. When we neglect our wellness, we compromise our ability to show up fully and contribute meaningfully. Conversely, when we prioritize wellness, even in small ways, we enhance our capacity to engage, perform, and inspire others. In the light of the new semester and last week's University Conference, being able to bring our whole selves to work, whether we work primarily in the classroom; in a lab; in an office space; at an on-campus eatery; outside; or elsewhere, is essential to the Becoming BYU plan.
The connection between wellness and performance is undeniable. A healthy body and mind are fundamental to sustained energy, attention, and creativity. Without wellness, our cognitive functions diminish, leading to reduced productivity, patience, and engagement. For faculty, administrators, and staff, this can translate to less effective teaching, decision-making, and support for students. In the classroom, students who neglect their wellness may find it challenging to focus, participate, excel academically, connect individually, and come unto Christ. Therefore, a commitment to wellness is not just a personal choice but a professional responsibility.
The pursuit of wellness is often treated with an all-or-nothing approach. A “some is better than none” mentality is more sustainable and realistic, especially during busy periods like the academic semester, and especially considering that the all-or-nothing approach most likely doesn't work for you since it seldom works for any human being. Small, consistent actions paired with behavioral resilience, can have a significant impact on overall wellness. Here are some tips to incorporate various dimensions of wellness into your daily work routine:
- Physical Wellness: Physical activity is essential, but it doesn’t have to be time-consuming or intense, and it doesn't require going to a gym. Incorporate movement into your day by taking short walks between meetings or classes, using the stairs instead of the elevator, or standing and stretching during breaks. Even a few minutes of movement can boost your energy and concentration.
- Emotional Wellness: Emotional wellness is closely tied to how we manage stress and maintain relationships. Practice mindfulness or deep breathing exercises or simply observe nature to manage stress levels. Take time to connect with colleagues or students on a personal level, as fostering positive relationships can enhance emotional resilience.
- Intellectual Wellness: Continuous learning and intellectual stimulation are vital for growth and engagement. Dedicate a few minutes each day to reading a book, listening to a podcast, or exploring new ideas related to your field. Intellectual wellness fuels creativity and innovation, which are crucial in both academic and professional settings.
- Social Wellness: Building a supportive network is key to wellness. Engage with your community by participating in campus events, joining employee hobby groups, or simply reaching out to a colleague for a chat. Social connections provide a sense of belonging and can offer emotional support during challenging times.
- Spiritual Wellness: Whether through meditation, reflection, or other practices, spiritual wellness helps us find meaning and purpose in our work. Take a few moments each day to reflect on your goals and values and the gospel of Jesus Christ. Aligning your work with your beliefs can increase job satisfaction and engagement.
As we embark on this new semester, let’s commit to prioritizing our wellness—not as an additional task on our to-do lists but as a foundation for everything we do, so we can do those things better. Remember, wellness is not about perfection but about progress. Small, intentional actions can accumulate over time, leading to a healthier, more engaged, and more productive community. By striving for wellness, we not only improve our own performance but also set a positive example for others, fostering a culture of well-being throughout our university.
Wellness is essential to showing up 100% in both the workplace and the classroom. By adopting a "some is better than none" approach, we can make meaningful strides in our well-being, enhancing our capacity to perform and engage fully. Let’s embrace this mindset and commit to our wellness journey this semester—one small step at a time.