Ultimately - whatever happened in the last race, or whatever we hope for the next - we work and live one day at a time.

And successfully balancing our working / racing lives, with looking after the things that most affect our sense of calm, confidence and satisfaction day to day, makes us stronger, more resilient - and probably, better off in racing too.

Businesses that create a work environment where employees’ physical and mental wellbeing is considered to have lower absenteeism, fewer injuries, and experience higher productivity and customer satisfaction. They can attract better talent - and retain their in-demand employees.

And individuals who feel healthy, supported - and balanced - tend to be more productive, more engaged, and generally higher performing.

Here are the Mental Health Foundation of NZ’s ‘top 5 ways’ of maintaining or increasing our personal wellbeing:

 

CONNECT
With the people around you. With family, friends, colleagues and neighbours. At home, work, school or in your local community. Think of these as the cornerstones of your life and invest time in developing them. Building these connections will support and enrich you every day.


BE ACTIVE
For yourself - not just at work. Go for a walk or run. Cycle. Play a game. Garden. Dance. Even though many of us work outside, in physical roles… it’s as much about being in your own head, getting away from the routine, and doing something purely for yourself, than the physical health benefits alone.
 

TAKE NOTICE
Give yourself the windows to stop, savour and enjoy little daily moments… whether it’s the drive to work, an outdoor lunch break or time with friends. Just taking time to be aware of the world around you, and reflecting on your daily experiences, helps you appreciate what matters to you.
 

KEEP LEARNING.
Try something new… or pick up an old interest. Make the conscious time to sign up for a course, upskill at work, or just train up on something you’ve always wanted to do. Give yourself a challenge you’ll enjoy achieving - it’ll make you feel more rounded, and more satisfied.
 

GIVE
Look for those opportunities to do something for a friend, colleague or stranger. Volunteer your time. Join a community group. Look out, as well as in. Seeing yourself linked to a wider community is rewarding in itself - and opens up new connections to people around you.

 

Racing matters - but putting yourself first does too. And the better you feel each day… the more you’ll bring on race day.

 

 

Further resources:

Mental Health Foundation - Getting Through Together

Advice for employers:

Building a wellbeing policy: