Yesterday, I ran our Work Family Wellbeing workshop at a construction company.  We spent the day focusing on wellbeing rather than balance, and taught people tools to increase their wellbeing and make the most of their work and family lives.

During one of the breaks, one of the participants asked me which of the wellbeing tools I use regularly.  It was an interesting question.

I do use a number of the wellbeing tools but not all the time.

When you live a busy life, it can be easy to get bogged down in daily hassles, and forget about caring for yourself.

But lately, I’ve been reminding myself of their importance and value.

And in fact, yesterday’s workshop was a great reminder to me of the need to always be checking in with myself - and listening to the true responses!

To be asking myself:

How well do I feel physically?
Do I need more sleep?
Do I need to forgo the muffin?
Do I need to exercise more?

How well do I feel emotionally?
Do I need to tell someone how I really feel?
Do I need time to myself?
Do I need to indulge myself in a little luxury?

How well do I feel domestically?
Is everyone pulling their weight?
Do I need to cut out some trivial tasks and save myself some time?
Do I need to lower my expectations?

I came away from yesterday’s workshop realising that wellbeing is a lifelong pursuit.  It takes commitment and dedication.  But it can be done.

On the way home in the cab I had a lovely chat with the cabbie about his kids.  When I got home, I gave my kids a big hug and told them I loved them.  And even when my daughter had a meltdown about wanting noodles and not pasta for dinner, I stayed calm and reasonable and loving.

And I went to bed happier.

By Jodie Benveniste, director of Parent Wellbeing.