I’ve worked at O’Connell & Goldberg for seven wonderful years – the first five of which I spent as office manager. That said, I’m a firm believer that growth and change are good – so, two years ago, I decided to shake things up! I worked directly with our CEO, Barbara and COO, Matt to create a new position for myself – People and Culture Manager – which I envisioned through the lens of my psychology and social work degrees, as well as my therapy background, passion for helping others, and years of experience working at O&G.
My role as People and Culture Manager places a strong emphasis on staff satisfaction in the workplace, from fostering a positive agency culture to facilitating professional development and intentional team-building events. As we kick off the new year, I’m leveraging my passion and expertise to focus on ways our team can continue bonding, growing, and improving – both collectively and as individuals. My holistic approach is rooted in optimism, connection, organization, and overall wellness.
Ready to welcome positive and healthy changes in 2025?
Here are some of my top tips for infusing more joy, POSITIVITY and wellness into your personal and professional life:
Practice time management
I feel like we all struggle with time management, but finding a system that works for you will help create a more relaxed and positive state-of-mind. For me, nothing beats crossing a task off my to-do list! There are apps that help schedule everything from events to small daily tasks – or you can use color-coded notepads and highlighters to make handwritten organizing fun and satisfying.
Socialize daily
Humans are social beings – it’s important to take some time out of your workday to connect with your fellow coworkers! Don’t let stress or a busy schedule keep you from getting in a bit of social interaction. I always encourage going out for a walk with an officemate to grab a cup of coffee, eat lunch together or simply get in some steps. It’s a great way to enjoy a change of scenery and mini mental break while boosting camaraderie.
Practice daily affirmations and gratitude
Words carry a lot of power, and practicing daily affirmations is a great way to nurture optimism. Begin each day with an intention and affirmation and keep the momentum going whenever you need a boost. The key here is to reframe any negative thoughts into positive ones and pay attention to how you talk to yourself. Affirmations can help us embrace change with an open mind and approach challenges with positivity.
Likewise, practicing gratitude is a great way to help alleviate stress and boost your sense of self. Studies have found that a single act of thoughtful gratitude produces an immediate 10% increase in happiness and a 35% reduction in depressive symptoms. Take a moment each day to write down something you’re thankful for in a designated gratitude journal. Those entries will serve as great reminders that, although bad things happen, good things do, too!
Celebrate small victories
I recommend setting aside some time each month to honor the great work you (or your colleagues/employees) have accomplished! Share a piece you’re proud of on LinkedIn or social media, treat yourself (or a coworker) to a coffee or handwritten card…a little recognition can go a long way in boosting confidence and morale.
Laugh out loud
Humor is medicine for the mind, so make a point of laughing every day! Laughing automatically triggers positive physical and mental changes that help to naturally relax your brain and body, boosting your immune system over time. Take a break with your funniest co-worker to get some giggles in during work. Listen to a humorous podcast on your commute, or catch a comedy show in your free time.
Get outdoors
Spending time in nature has been scientifically proven to reduce stress levels and boost mood. The combination of natural beauty, sunlight, and fresh air stimulates the production of endorphins – your “feel-good” hormones – leading to a sense of relaxation and contentment. Even a brief walk or meal al fresco can help you get in some of that medicinal sunshine. Just don’t forget your SPF!
Engage your brain
“Use it or lose it” applies just as much to our minds as it does to our bodies! By maintaining intellectual wellness, you can stimulate new connections, promote creativity, and create a happier and healthier life. My recommendations? Read a novel, write in a journal, try a new recipe, play brain games, take a class, attend arts and culture events, listen to a financial wellness podcast, engage in thoughtful conversations about current events… the options are endless. These activities engage and expand your mind while helping with self-expression.
Honor the wellness basics: sleep, nutrition, water and exercise
The former social worker in me cannot emphasize enough how important it is to take a biopsychosocial/holistic approach to wellness. I’ve mentioned plenty of ways to improve your social and mental wellness, but let’s not forget about our bodies! Make sure you are prioritizing sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, drinking enough water, and exercising regularly. Pro tip: You can make the exercise portion fun (and cover several of the above tips at once) by gathering your team and participating in a game of pickleball or a 5k – both of which we’ve done here at O&G!
Make 2025 the year you prioritize positivity and wellness!
Not only will following these tips help boost your happiness and peace of mind – it will elevate your confidence, motivation and productivity, making you a more well-rounded person and colleague. That’s the kind of energy we want to bring into this new year!