The tools that help you live a happy and content life, are not always going to be the same as your mates. The tools that help you stay afloat, less stressed and anxious. There's no starter kit or quick go-to guide because the tools in your kit are completely your call. The simplest way to put it is taking care of yourself. It isn't all about salt baths and face packs. In the mid-1990s Tony Parker founder of A Call to Men, coined the term 'man box' to describe masculinity as performance, speaking a lot about real men. The idea there is a criteria to be met. If you didn't fit into the man box then there was the social price to pay. Men have often spotted the social price but not the price in the sense of their life span, maladaptive coping and suicide rates. What about if we recreated the man box- A man box with a decent range of tools Physical - Your mind and body are more connected than you may think. I understand that taking care of your body can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. You can start by taking small steps and gradually build healthy habits that work best for you. Giving some thought to what you eat can also help you feel better about yourself. Focus on foods that provide you with energy and make you feel ready to take on the day, rather than those that leave you feeling sluggish and in need of rest. Emotional - If you are going through something, it can be helpful to talk about it with someone you trust. Remember, a problem shared is a problem halved. If you are not comfortable talking about it, you can try expressing yourself through writing or engaging in a hobby you enjoy. It's important to find a healthy outlet to deal with what's going on for you. Financial - Finances and money are frequently on our minds, whether it’s deciding where to buy a coffee or ensuring we have enough money in our accounts to cover upcoming bills. It's important to keep track of income and expenses and plan accordingly. However, it's worth noting that not all actions taken to look after ourselves need to impact our bank balance. Professional and personal - It is important to set boundaries for yourself to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Making a commitment to not check your emails outside of work hours and valuing your free time by consciously saying no to additional responsibilities. It is important to remember that just because you have free time, it does not always mean that you are available. I can help you reorganise your tools, find more balance and support you in recognise what you need and when you need it. |
AuthorDemi Shakespeare
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