let's talk about our mental health & how it affects us in our workday. to clarify, I don't mean how it may affect our performance or efficiency or our ability to keep others happy - I really mean how it affects us day-to-day.

Knowing that many of us are fortunate in Canada to have the resources to be able to do these things in our daily work life, I wanted to highlight a Canadian organization called Grand Challenges Canada which is funding local innovators in low-resource countries around the world so they can implement mental health solutions to their communities, especially for youth.

As an entrepreneur days can get pretty lonely and I can get wrapped up in making everyone else happy without even getting up from my desk. Over the years I have pinned down the 5 fundamentals to caring for my mental health in my workday, some EVERYDAY and others when necessary. I hope they can help you too!

Here are 5 ways to take care of your mental health @ work!

1. Change your environment & move

If you feel stuck, frustrated, or the big one "not good enough" - take a moment to go for a walk, grab a coffee, or fit in a little movement. You may notice those few minutes away from the work will shift your mindset and allow you to jump back in refreshed.

2. Set boundaries and prioritize you.

Not your boss, client, or co-workers ... you! We want to please everyone, and sadly that's normal. It's also impossible. But you hopefully have this job to feel a sense of purpose and fulfillment for you. You have it to make a living and thrive, for you. Remember that in moments when your boundaries are not accepted by others.

3. Remember, it can probably wait. Advocate for the time you need.

You are the only person who knows when too much is on your plate. Rather than letting things fall through the cracks and then YOU feeling worse about yourself, communicate when you need more time. If you work with people who don't respect your honesty about what you can actually take on, they will probably be upset, but not as upset as when you do so incorrectly. With proper time expectations, you actually allow for more success within your team because others with less can step in. I tell my team the same thing. If I asking for too much, tell me. If you're overwhelmed tell me. Just try it, you may be surprised how happy others are happy to hear honesty rather than continuing an unrealistic hustle culture environment.

4. Stay hydrated & well-nourished.

and PLEASE don't skip either because you're too busy! We need hydration and yummy, healthy foods to show up as our most productive powerful selves. Our brain literally gets foggy and even more anxious without the hydration and nutrients we need. Nothing is more important than basic survival.

5. Remember the resources, friends, and professionals you have.

Hopefully, your employer, team or if you're self-employed (YOU!) provide some kind of resources and support when you're feeling stuck at work. Either way, remember that we are LUCKY to have friends to speak to for advice, professionals who are credibly available and tools (I even have tons of free ones on my socials and website!) to turn to. YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

Check out the video from Grand Challenges Canada on a few of the supported innovators improving mental health in communities around the world.