Friday Feb 25, 2022
#45: One Word For Your Wellbeing
At the start of 2022, I set an intention. I do this every year over the winter break to help me stay aligned with my values and goals. This year, my intention is wellbeing.
Like many of you, 2021 was not kind to my health; both mental and physical. There was so much going on with the pandemic and all of the constant changes and adjustments that came with it. And then of course those of us living in B.C. experienced extreme weather and destruction in three of the four seasons. It was exhausting just getting through each day and week. And unlike other tough years, 2021 seemed to lack an important ingredient; hope.
2022 started off a little ugly with Omicron and of course, the convoy craziness that I was not able to turn off, but despite that, it does seem a bit more hopeful and optimistic. At least that’s the attitude my wellbeing intention is focused on.
I know it’s only been two months of living this intention, but I am proud to say putting my attention on my own wellbeing has highlighted a very important strategy for success. And although it is multi-faceted, I have been able to boil it down to one word; and that word is not what you think!
Here is a summary of this short and sweet episode:
-
Last year I created a wonderful decision-making tool to help me stay focused and I am still using it because it works! But what I realized early this year is that just having that process wasn’t 100% foolproof.
- One important word my decision-making process led me to was "no." But sometimes just saying no isn't enough if you feel shame or guilt or fear after you say it.
- I share a personal example of how this realization came to me and how a clearer definition of shame versus guilt was helpful. In her book, Daring Greatly, Brene Brown explains the difference between shame and guilt. She says, “Shame is a focus on self, guilt is a focus on behavior. Shame is “I am bad.” Guilt is “I did something bad.” How many of you, if you did something that was hurtful to me, would be willing to say, “I’m sorry. I made a mistake?” How many of you would be willing to say that? Guilt: I’m sorry. I made a mistake. Shame: I’m sorry. I am a mistake.”
- In order to overcome these feelings, I tapped into Brene's recommended antidote - empathy.
- Here are a couple of suggestions on how to extend empathy to yourself and support your wellbeing.
-
- journal a list of recent accomplishments
- recognize your humanity and vulnerability
- approach negative emotions with a perspective of curiosity
- talk to yourself like you would talk to your best friend
-
The next time you feel your wellbeing slipping away from you because you are sacrificing it to appear good and worthy to others or to live up to unrealistic expectations or standards, remember the one word that is essential to your wellbeing; empathy.
If you enjoyed this episode or any other, consider sharing your love with a review and a five-star rating on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Podbean. And if you haven’t already subscribed, be sure to click that button wherever you are listening.
As I mentioned at the beginning of this episode, if you are serious about building your HR career and you want to support the HR Mentor, consider getting a membership.
The HR Mentor Fan Club is a virtual space where you can get access to special bonus episodes of the podcast, resources, and free downloads as well as a chance to access special discounts on future programs.
If you join today, you will get instant access to my decision-making tool to help you say no to activities that aren’t aligned with your values and goals and much more. In March we will be adding a special episode of The HR Mentor where we teach you how to approach some of the toughest interview questions you may face. If you don’t want to miss out, join today.
Comments (0)
To leave or reply to comments, please download free Podbean or
No Comments
To leave or reply to comments,
please download free Podbean App.