At a recent session at the ESPC conference, I took the stage to discuss something incredibly fundamental: wellbeing. Taking inspiration from my professional journey as a consultant and coach at Search Explained, coupled with my personal experiences, I navigated through the importance of nurturing our well-being.
In my consulting work, my approach has always incorporated the human perspective. Beyond the professional layer always lies an essential human connection – the enriching experience of being heard, seen, and understood. This is not just about empathetic human-to-human understanding, but also about how we listen and relate to ourselves.
From my modest and challenging beginnings growing up in Hungary to my transition into life in the Netherlands, each phase of my personal journey has taught me invaluable life lessons. I’m reminded every day of the beauty of this world. All my (oftentimes contrasting) experiences have been a hands-on guide, teaching me the art of resilience, personal and professional wellbeing, and the magic that unfolds when you open your heart and mind to others.
We have so much to learn from one another when we truly listen!
Being heard, seen, and understood – that’s the cornerstone of every relationship. When you really listen, magic happens. You discover an unseen path that leads to authentic connections and understandings.
Drawing upon these life experiences, learnings from the conference, and valuable interactions shared with many of you, I’ve reflected upon and compiled a list of ten steps to enhance personal and professional well-being:
Discover Your Passion – Find joy in your work, but remember, it’s important not to trespass into the threshold of exhaustion. There’s a fine line between dedication and burnout.
Embrace Active Listening – Integrating active listening into your daily conversations can foster deeper connections – be it during a team meeting, a phone call, dinner with family, or a friendly chat over coffee.
Nourish Your Body – Prioritize your physical health by indulging in a balanced, nutritious diet. Remember, good health is your wealth.
Stay Hydrated – A well-hydrated body is a well-oiled machine that is capable of incredible things. Notice your water intake.
Keep Moving – Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. Walk, bike, run, go to the gym, do yoga… Whatever it is, find what makes your body and mind feel good. Make it a habit, and stick to it. It keeps the heart happy and the mind sharp.
Prioritize Sleep and Rest – Quality sleep is key to keeping our minds fresh and bodies recharged. Honor your body’s need for rest.
Challenge Your Mind – Engage in activities that stimulate the mind. Learn a new skill, solve a puzzle, learn a language, or read a book that challenges your curiosity.
Cultivate Your Support System – Surround yourself with a reliable network of friends, family, or professional guides, who can be your sounding boards and pillars of strength. Keep these connections alive.
Practice “Niksen” – Dedicate some time to do just … nothing! This Dutch concept is a balm for our overstimulated senses.
Normalize Discussions About Mental Health – Understand that it’s okay to not be okay all the time. Don’t hide your true feelings and emotions under a false blanket of positivity. Reach out when required!
+1. Invite a coach into your life – We all know that athletes all have a coach to guide them. Coaches can give you a fresh perspective, motivate you, challenge you, and provide you with the tools you need to prosper both personally and professionally.
Embarking on the journey of nurturing one’s wellbeing brings you face-to-face with many aspects of your life. With your true self. And during these reflective moments, remember that it’s okay to pause and experience moments of uncertainties or anxieties. They’re all part of our personal growth narrative.
Wellbeing is not a destination but an ongoing journey – a fragile dance between personal well-being and professional commitments. Above all, remember to take care of yourself and the people around you. Your well-being might rely heavily on these connections more than you realize.
Stay healthy, stay happy, and embrace the journey of well-being!
P.S.: If you’re interested in the original session from ESPC, here is a recording I made there: If you’re interested in the original session, here is a recording I made there:
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