By Mandy Green
2 minute read
Fall has arrived, and with it comes the busy season for admissions and higher ed professionals.
The excitement of helping students navigate their futures is paired with the challenge of balancing deadlines, campus tours, meetings, and recruitment goals. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the daily grind and let stress take over. But here’s an important truth: to stay productive and effective, you must make time to schedule your joy.
Lately, I’ve been spending more time outdoors, which has done wonders for my mood. Reducing my screen time? A game-changer. These small moments of joy aren’t just quick escapes – they’re key to maintaining sharpness, balance, and motivation in a high-pressure environment.
I shared this with my group of high-performance professionals recently: Making time for things that bring you happiness can profoundly impact both your personal success and your well-being. Why not make joy a scheduled part of your day?
Here’s an exercise: List activities that bring you happiness and fulfillment. Then, be intentional about making time for them. The benefits will spill over into your work, your interactions with colleagues and students, and your mental health. Here are some ideas to consider adding to your list:
- Listen to music during breaks or on your commute: Music can lift your spirits and energize you for the tasks ahead.
- Tune into an educational podcast or audiobook: Not only can you learn something new, but you’ll also gain fresh perspectives that could help you excel in your role.
- Watch how you speak to yourself: Your self-talk has a big impact on your outlook. Positive words lead to positive outcomes.
- Hydrate first thing in the morning: Starting your day with a glass of water can improve mental clarity and set the tone for productivity.
- Smile, even if you don’t feel like it: A quick smile can trigger the release of chemicals that boost your mood.
- Tackle an important task early: Getting something done right away creates momentum for the rest of your day.
- Focus on one task at a time: Multitasking divides your attention. Stay present and positive to work more effectively.
- Exercise daily: Physical activity is not only good for your body but also improves your resilience and mental clarity.
Ask yourself: Do you have a list of things that make you happy? If not, it’s time to create one.
Joy and happiness aren’t luxuries – they’re essential for thriving in a fast-paced, demanding environment like higher ed.
Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Schedule your joy, and watch how it transforms your productivity, your mood, and your approach to the busy season ahead.