World Mental Health Day – Prioritizing Wellbeing as a Contractor

World Mental Health Day which was earlier this month serves as a global reminder to reflect on our mental well-being and to ensure we are taking care of ourselves. While it's crucial to acknowledge this day, focusing on your mental health should not be restricted to a single day of the year. As a contractor, taking steps to prioritize your wellbeing every day can be vital in maintaining a healthy work-life balance and ensuring your long-term success. In this blog post, we'll explore some practical ways contractors can focus on their wellbeing throughout the year.

Use iPerks

At Icon Accounting, we care about the well-being of our contractor community. Our iPerks system is designed to provide support outside of accounting and compliance services. By availing these programs, you can access a range of services and resources that promote your overall health and well-being, making it a great platform to simply focus on you in your busy day to day life. We encourage all our clients to take advantage of these wellness programs, ensuring they can excel every day.

Set Your Schedule and Boundaries

Contractors often have the freedom to decide how and when they work. While this flexibility is a significant advantage, it can also lead to overworking and burnout if not managed properly. To maintain a healthy work-life balance, it's essential to set explicit work-hour restrictions and adhere to them. Here are some tips to help you do this:

• Create a well-organized schedule to ensure efficient use of your time.
• Prioritize tasks and use time-blocking techniques to stay on track.
• If you regularly find yourself working beyond your scheduled hours, consider delegating tasks or renegotiating deadlines.

Take Regular Breaks

While working for yourself can be demanding, it's essential to take regular breaks to rejuvenate and enhance your productivity. Research has shown that regular breaks can improve the quality and efficiency of your work. Here's how you can incorporate breaks into your daily routine:

• Schedule time for activities that boost your physical and emotional well-being, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
• Allow yourself to take short breaks every few hours during your workday. A 5 to 15-minute break can clear your mind and help you return to work with a refreshed mindset.
• Don't underestimate the power of short breaks; they can make a significant difference in your overall productivity and mental well-being.

Acknowledge Your Accomplishments

It’s easy for everyone to get caught up in their busy daily schedules and work without acknowledging successes. Take the time to recognize and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Whether it's landing a new client or receiving positive feedback, stepping back and appreciating your achievements can boost your confidence and motivation.

Maintain a Healthy Working Environment

Just as in a traditional office setting, your workspace as a contractor plays a crucial role in your overall well-being. A well-designed workspace can significantly impact your mental health and efficiency. To create a comfortable and productive workspace, consider the following:

• Invest in ergonomic equipment to prevent physical discomfort.
• Adjust lighting and temperature to create a suitable working environment.
• Eliminate distractions that may hinder your focus and productivity.

World Mental Health Day is a reminder that taking care of your mental health is essential. As a contractor, it's crucial to integrate well-being practices into your daily routine. Setting boundaries, taking regular breaks, acknowledging your accomplishments, maintaining a healthy working environment, and utilizing support services like iPerks can help you prioritize your well-being every day of the year. By doing so, you'll not only enhance your mental health but also improve your overall effectiveness as a contractor.