Balancing life, work, and mental wellness, a guide – the demands of building a new business and nurturing a marriage can be exceedingly challenging.
“Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day.”
-Dalai Lama
This seemingly simple action highlights the power of positivity and how a positive mindset can transform your day and maintain your mental wellness.
As Co-Founder and CEO of the Ingomu coaching app, I tackle the daily challenges inherent to the startup world. These challenges demand strategic agility, innovation, a can-do attitude, and a positive mindset.
My partner of 25 years serves as my Co-Founder and CTO, intensifying the challenges we face in our marriage.
Constant togetherness increases the risk of work stress spilling over into our personal lives, potentially straining our relationships.
Life-work balance is key – I prefer this over work-life balance.
Some days, achieving this balance feels effortless, while on others, it’s a very real challenge.
And, some days, the stress can work to undermine my mental wellness.
As a highly sensitive person (HSP), I have learned to tackle these challenges by having a positive mindset and by finding inspiration around me.
Here are a few tips on how I achieve this balance daily and how you can, too:
STARTING THE DAY
As in the quote above by the Dalai Lama, I do start my day deliberately with positive thoughts. As soon as I wake up, I remain in bed for a few minutes and recite in my head a handful of positive affirmations. It can be as simple as “Today is a great day.” I make them deliberate and appropriate for the day to come.
It focuses my mind on the possibilities of the day, not on the challenges.
Regardless of the weather, after breakfast and my morning routine, I make it a point to have a mindful walk around my neighborhood. It refreshes and focuses my mind so I can be ready for the day. I also walk after lunch and dinner.
This mindful walk technique, taught to me by Ingomu’s Wild Wisdom Mentor Josh Lane, is a form of meditation that combines the physical act of walking with mindfulness techniques, cultivating a sense of awareness and presence in nature.
DURING THE DAY
Reframing is key.
On average, we’re bombarded with anywhere from 300 to 3,000 negative messages per day, depending on social media consumption, social interactions, and the news.
I have learned to tune out some of the sources of negativity, while others related to work and my personal life are reframed into opportunities for change.
For example:
When a conflict arises at work, I can dwell on it or address it head-on as an opportunity to improve communication and foster a more cohesive team. By reframing, I can resolve the issue more easily and create a more positive and productive work environment.
On a personal level, our busy schedules can create distance between us, leading to feelings of drifting apart. However, I choose to reframe this as an opportunity to appreciate the non-work time we have together. Our commitment to building a successful company means that the time we spend together is even more precious. It allows us both to cherish our moments together and strengthens our bond.
Having a positive mindset is crucial for my mental health because it can significantly impact how I perceive and respond to the world around me.
ENDING MY DAY
At the end of my day, I carve out time for reflection by journaling.
This allows me to examine my day; I highlight successes, lessons learned, and the things that I am grateful for in life and work.
This reflection gives me a deeper understanding of my experiences, but also cultivates a mindset of growth, positivity, and gratitude.
I also never go to bed angry. I tell my partner that I love him.
As I prepare to fall asleep, I practice box breathing. It involves breathing in for the count of four, holding my breath for the count of four, breathing out for the count of four, and then holding my breath again for the count of four, completing the “box” pattern. It helps me relax and reduce stress.
THE IMPORTANCE OF BOUNDARIES
Only in the past year have I begun to understand the importance of boundaries. Through Coach Theresa Byrne in our Ingomu app, I learned that boundaries play a crucial role in maintaining mental wellness by promoting a healthy balance between my life and work, protecting relationships, and ensuring that I prioritize my well-being.
MY TOP THREE TAKEAWAYS
- Start Your Day with Positivity: Begin each morning with positive affirmations to set the tone for the day ahead.
- Practice Mindful Walking: Incorporate mindful walks into your daily routine to refresh your mind and stay focused.
- Reflect and Journal: End your day with reflection through journaling to highlight successes, lessons learned, and things you’re grateful for, cultivating a mindset of growth and gratitude.
Remember, each day is a new opportunity to embrace positivity, balance, and growth. Embrace each challenge as a chance for growth, and let your journey be guided by positivity and gratitude.
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