As financial advisers, we help guide people through our fair share of stressful situations. So, as a team, we’ve made a commitment to prioritise wellbeing. And here are five simple steps to help boost your wellbeing today.

I have worked for Velocity for a few years now and have slowly learnt the importance of looking after my wellbeing, both at work and at home. Life is rather hectic (juggling three kids, a full time job, and Brendon) so I’ve put in place some strategies to ensure I look after myself and stay sane in the workplace.

The Mental Health Foundation recommends we incorporate five elements into our daily lives to improve our overall wellbeing. So I’ve taken these on board and try to follow these every day.

So, here are my five daily steps to wellbeing!

5. Be Active

I get up at 5am and go to the gym each morning. Starting the day with exercise   leaves me feeling good for the rest of the day and I tend to eat better throughout the day too!

Then it’s yoga in the evenings to unwind and de-stress. I aim to do at least 10,000 steps a day on my Fitbit, too, which often means taking breaks to walk around the block throughout the day. You may find both myself and Stevie walking around the office, looking at our watches, to get our steps up!

4. Give           

Each week I aim to do two good deeds, whether it’s donating to the local food bank or dedicating my time to someone who needs help. I make sure it’s something I want to do and have time for, so that I don’t end up feeling resentful. Doing something for others makes me feel good.

3. Learn        

I’m always trying to learn something new, both at work and at home. I try to set myself a fitness challenge as well as a learning challenge each month. I’m currently trying to master the “side crow” pose in yoga. Not easy! According to mentalhealth.org.nz, adult learning (which includes goal-setting) is proven to be strongly associated with higher levels of wellbeing.

2. Connect    

I try and catch up with friends as often as I can—even if it’s just for a quick walk or a cup of coffee. In the past, I’ve been too busy to fit it all in, so I am making a habit of fostering relationships and ensuring I allocate them the time they need.

1. Take Notice

Each day I think of one thing I am grateful for.

For further information head to mentalhealth.org.nz