Published to Newsletter on Nov 18, 2024
Author: Bonnie Minkus-Holmes, PhD.
As the winter holidays approach, many of us look forward to unplugging from work and recharging with family and friends. However, we often assume that taking time off will fully restore us, only to find ourselves returning to work still feeling exhausted. According to Harvard Business Review (2016), true recovery requires more than simply disconnecting from our computers; it involves intentionally replenishing our mental and physical energy.
Building resilience in the workplace is essential for managing stress, adapting to change, and preventing burnout. Resilient employees experience improved well-being, handle challenges more effectively, and foster a positive work culture. Resilience is also a key trait in effective leadership, as it enhances emotional intelligence.
To cultivate resilience, we must make space for both “internal” and “external” recovery. Internal recovery includes brief pauses throughout the workday—like taking a walk, stretching, or practicing mindfulness. External recovery is about setting boundaries outside of work: intentionally unplugging, disengaging from work-related thoughts, and focusing on activities that restore our energy.
Here are some ways to encourage recovery:
- Schedule offline times during weekends or holidays.
- Avoid eating lunch at your desk; go for a walk or meet friends.
- Use your paid time off and dedicate it to restful, non-work activities.
- Set clear screen-time boundaries and avoid screens before bed.
- Prioritize sleep, exercise, or mindfulness activities to maintain well-being.
By adopting these strategies, we can move from merely resting to truly recovering, returning to work with renewed energy and focus. Resilience isn’t just about enduring stress; it’s about creating rhythms of rest and activity that allow us to thrive.
If you would like to learn more about resiliency and recovery, EOD’s open-enrollment Course of the Month and Hungry Minds Café will be focusing on Emotional Intelligence and Managing your Time and Energy. Please email EOD@unm.edu for more information.
Anchor, S. & Gielan, M. (2016) Resilience Is About How You Recharge, Not How You Endure. Harvard Business Review. https://hbr.org/2016/06/resilience-is-about-how-you-recharge-not-how-you-endure.
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