We all know that there are times when life at the office can get extremely busy and hectic. Especially right now when times are tough – people are working harder to keep their companies going. And a lot of time, this means that we don’t focus on ourselves at all, which can be dangerous. If we don’t take ourselves, there is the possibility that we will get sick or burnt out and won’t be able to take care of our company down the road.

So what are some quick and easy things that you can do to maintain your health?

  1. Get enough sleep. The average adult requires 8-10 hours of sleep per night. If you don’t get enough sleep, your performance will reflect this during the day. Your reaction time goes down, you will feel sluggish, and will have a hard time remembering things. As well, losing sleep on a regular basis will lower you immune system.
  2. Snack Smartly. I don’t know about you, but I am personally a stress eater. When I get stressed, the first thing I do is reach for the junk food. There are, however, healthier alternatives: fruits and vegetables, cheese and crackers… if you must grab some junk food, there are chocolate bars and other snack foods that boast less calories.
  3. Eat a Well-Balanced Lunch. Packing your own lunch can help with this point. A well-balanced diet will give you the nutrients you need to work your best and to keep illness at bay. Plus, eating fast food can leave you feeling very tired and lethargic afterwards.
  4. Drink a lot of Water. Making sure that you are properly hydrated will do wonders for your health – there have been studies done that say drinking a lot of water lowers your chances of a heart attack. It can also get rid of headaches, and will cleanse your system of unwanted toxins.
  5. Exercise Regularly. Even if it’s just taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or taking a walk at lunch, exercising will help you stay healthy.
  6. Build a Support System. A support system of friends and family away from work can help you out if you’re ever finding that work is getting really stressful.
  7. Get the Proper Office Equipment. Ergonomically designed chairs and office equipment will help you avoid body stress and will actually increase your productivity.
  8. Keep your Office Clean. Telephones are one of the biggest carrier of germs that could cause you to get ill. It’s easy to imagine where else germs may be hiding in your office. By keeping it clean, you’ll be reducing the risk of getting sick.
  9. Wash your Hands. Again, this has to do with germs and keeping yourself from getting sick. Especially when your co-workers are ill – washing your hands will help prevent the spread of germs and disease.
  10. Go Outside When Possible. Sitting inside all day isn’t good for your body. The light indoors isn’t proper, and you probably don’t move around as much as you should. Even if it’s just to stand outside for a portion of your lunch break – the vitamin E that you absorb from the sun can help you maintain your health.