Recharging You? What are you doing to revitalise yourself?

In our current fast-paced and demanding environment, it is crucial to recognise the importance of recharging and rejuvenating ourselves. Each of us has unique ways to refuel and maintain our wellbeing. The question is – what are you doing to recharge yourself and how successful is it?  

In a world full of uncertainties and plot-twists, resilience is an invaluable asset. Understanding the types of resilience and cultivating a toolkit of skills and resources empowers us to bounce back, adapt, and thrive in the face of adversity. By developing emotional, physical, social, and cognitive resilience, we equip ourselves with the tools necessary to weather life's plot-twists and emerge stronger, wiser, and more capable of embracing the unexpected with grace and determination. 

Understanding our personal recharge mechanisms and having a plan or routine to proactively prioritise self-renewal and prevent burnout is critical – but are we aware enough to have this in place? As we head into the last quarter of the year, this is the perfect time to consider how and what you need to replenish and put these actions in place. 

Let us start with what we mean by recharge mechanisms… 

Recharge mechanisms refer to the activities, habits, or environments that help us replenish our energy and restore our wellbeing. These mechanisms vary from person to person and can include investing time engaging in hobbies, spending time in nature, practicing mindfulness or meditation, sleeping, engaging in physical exercise, or indulging in other activities that bring joy and relaxation. For some, recharge mechanisms can mean spending time with or near others, whilst for others solitude is the ticket. 

So why is this so important?  

Understanding and including recharging mechanisms into your lifestyle allow you the space to reset, thus increasing your ability to manage life’s plot twists. Having outlets and space crafted out for your personal `time out’ increases your resilience and arms you with a tool kit of things/actions you can do or use to rebalance and `fill your cup’. Let's explore these vital elements and make sure we are doing all we can to successfully recharge ourselves regularly.

Firstly, let’s look at the types of resilience that we need to consider and build to create our own `recharge toolkit’.

Emotional Resilience Emotional resilience refers to the ability to adapt and bounce back from emotional setbacks or traumatic events. It involves managing and regulating emotions, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and maintaining a positive outlook during challenging times. 

Physical Resilience Physical resilience relates to the ability to recover and adapt physically after facing health challenges or physical stressors. It includes taking care of one's physical wellbeing, building strength and endurance, and adapting to changes in health or physical capabilities. 

Social Resilience Social resilience emphasizes the importance of supportive relationships and networks. It involves cultivating healthy connections, seeking and offering social support, and nurturing strong social bonds. Social resilience provides a sense of belonging, emotional support, and a network to rely on during tough times. 

Cognitive Resilience Cognitive resilience involves the ability to think flexibly, problem-solve, and adapt in the face of challenges. It encompasses mental agility, the capacity to reframe situations, and the ability to learn from setbacks. Cognitive resilience enables individuals to approach difficulties with a growth mindset and find creative solutions. 

 What is the potential risk of not having a personal recharge plan in place? 

 Below are 7 good reasons not to neglect recharging and taking time for yourself. Without proper rest, relaxation, and self-care you may experience some or all of the following side-effects: 

1.       Decreased productivity When we are fatigued and mentally drained, our ability to focus, complete tasks, and achieve our goals diminishes. Recharging effectively ensures that we have the required energy and mental clarity.

2.       Diminished creativity Failing to replenish yourself crushes your creativity. Recharging allows you to tap into your creative potential, coming up with fresh ideas and solutions to problems.

3.       Impaired decision-making abilities A fatigued mind often leads to poor choices. By recharging, you can boost your cognitive resilience and make decisions with confidence and wisdom.

4.       Strain on relationships When we are exhausted and stressed, it is easy to react impulsively and negatively in our interactions. Recharging helps us maintain emotional resilience, fostering healthier and more supportive relationships.

5.       Feelings of dissatisfaction, unhappiness and a lack of fulfilment in life It is vital to prioritise recharging you self to find contentment and fulfilment, as resilience is tightly linked to our overall wellbeing.

6.       Reduced energy Without rest and relaxation, your energy levels drop significantly. Recharging ensures you have the physical and emotional resilience to face life's challenges.

7.       Loss of motivation Recharging rekindles your motivation, reminding you of your goals and aspirations and providing the drive to pursue them.

 Create an Action

Take time now to write down your own personal recharge plan. We have created an End of Year Focus Activity Sheet to help you start your ball rolling.

Having a personal recharge plan helps us establish boundaries, set aside time for rest and relaxation, engage in activities that bring joy and fulfilment and prioritise our wellbeing. It allows for intentional self-care practices, such as exercise, meditation, hobbies, spending time with loved ones, and pursuing personal interests. By proactively recharging and replenishing energy levels, we can enhance their overall quality of life, improve resilience, and better cope with the challenges and demands we encounter. 

Overall, having a toolkit of resilience strategies equips us with the necessary skills, mindset, and resources to effectively navigate life’s difficulties, maintain wellbeing, and thrive in the face of adversity.