Hello again!

Welcome to "Beyond HR," where we illuminate new pathways to your success beyond the office.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or burnt out? As a life coach with nearly 15 years' experience in HR, I understand the unique challenges you face. Whether it’s managing workplace dynamics, navigating organizational changes, or maintaining work-life balance, I’m here to guide you toward resilience and growth.

But guess what? You don’t have to be in HR to benefit from working together! Life happens to everyone, and we all encounter moments when we need support, clarity, and a fresh perspective. So, whether you’re an HR professional or simply someone seeking positive change, this newsletter is for you. 🤗

Now, I'm not one for wasting time, so, let's dive in and thrive together!

🎭 The Masked Life of HR — An Identity Tug-of-War 

Have you ever felt like you’re acting in a never-ending play, each day requiring you to switch between various roles with impeccable timing?

I certainly have ...📽️🎬🍿

HR professionals are the unsung heroes of every organization, donning multiple "masks" to keep the workplace thriving. From mediator to counselor, enforcer to confidant and more — the roles are endless and ever-changing.

Maintaining a personal identity while fulfilling your HR duties is a challenge many face. The demands of the job can sometimes blur the lines between who you are and what you do.

I remember the day I was told that I was a completely different person at work and that people did not know the real me. The truth was ... neither did I ...

There's no denying we need armor in the HR arena, but what does wearing all these masks mean for you emotionally and psychologically?

Stress and emotional fatigue often become daily companions. Constantly switching roles can leave you feeling fragmented, as if you're losing a piece of yourself with each new task. This emotional juggling act isn't just exhausting — it can lead to burnout and a loss of personal identity.

Each of these roles demands a piece of you, and it's easy to lose track of who you are beneath all these layers. And before you know it, the roles start piling up ...

It didn't take long before I started carrying the weight of these roles home with me. I was constantly "on," even at the dinner table, replaying office scenarios in my mind, wondering if I could have handled things differently.

The turning point came one night when I had a full-on panic attack.

I remember it vividly ... lying in bed calling for my husband because I couldn't breathe. It felt like an elephant was on my chest. My heart was pounding so fast and loud, I could hear every beat in my head. I didn't know what was happening to me, and that made the anxiety even worse. Tossing and turning, I was unable to shut off the internal dialogue about a particularly challenging time in my career. That's when it hit me — my work was no longer just a part of my life; it had become my life.

The next day, I made a decision. I sought help from a therapist who also recommended coaching.

Through their guidance, I learned to set boundaries and prioritize my own well-being. I began to reclaim my evenings by engaging in hobbies I loved but had neglected for years. Slowly but surely, I rediscovered my identity beyond the office. In addition, I defined who I am as an HR practitioner — no longer the prescriptive version we tend to fall victim to.

Here's my advice to you:

Take a moment to reflect on where you are right now:

Are you losing yourself in the myriad of roles you play at work?

Have any of you felt like you've lost connection with who you are?

Do you even remember a time when you knew who you truly are?

It's time to prioritize yourself. You can be an excellent HR professional without losing sight of who you truly are.

So, how can you balance these roles without losing yourself?

Here's some practical tips:

1. Set Boundaries: Define clear lines between your various roles. When you're a mediator, focus solely on mediating. When you're a counselor, be entirely present in that role.

2. Self-Check-Ins: Regularly ask yourself how you're feeling. Are you overwhelmed? Stressed? Acknowledging your emotions is the first step in managing them.

3. Delegate When Possible: You don’t have to wear every mask all the time. Identify tasks that can be delegated to others, freeing you up to focus on what truly requires your attention.

By understanding the toll these roles take and taking steps to manage them, you can navigate your HR responsibilities without sacrificing your well-being. It's not just about wearing the masks — it's about knowing when to take them off.

🏠 Work That Follows You Home

HR professionals know this all too well: the workday never truly ends. You might leave the office, but the responsibilities often follow you home. Whether it's an urgent email that needs responding to, or a lingering thought about a conflict that needs resolving, the lines between work and personal life can blur.

This invisible workload can be exhausting.

Imagine this: It's 8 PM on a Wednesday. You've just finished dinner and are ready to unwind. Suddenly, your phone buzzes. It's an email from work.

Sound familiar?

For many HR professionals, work doesn't end when they leave the office. Whether it's handling late-night emails, resolving conflicts, or prepping for the next day's tasks, the line between work and personal life often blurs.

Here are some common scenarios where HR work can sneak into your personal time:

• Reviewing resumes and applications after hours.
• Answering urgent employee queries during dinner.
• Preparing for early morning meetings late into the night.

To prevent work from taking over your personal life, try this checklist for setting boundaries:

1. Designate "Work-Free" Zones
   • If possible, set up a specific area in your home where you work. When you leave that space, leave work behind. This physical separation can make a big difference in your mindset.
   • Pro Tip: Keep work out of your bedroom and living room.
2. Set Clear Work Hours
   • Decide on your work hours and stick to them. Communicate these boundaries with your colleagues and family. It's okay to be unavailable after a certain time.
3. Turn off Notifications
   • Make it a habit to disconnect from work emails and calls after hours. Use this time to engage in activities that recharge you — whether it's reading, exercising, or spending quality time with loved ones.
   • Pro Tip: Silence work emails and messages after hours.
   • Pro Tip: Use "Do Not Disturb" mode on your phone during personal time (you can set it so certain calls/messages come through). Send an auto message that you are enjoying quality time.

But don't just take my word for it ...

Anne used to check her work emails late into the night, feeling the weight of her responsibilities round the clock. It wasn't until she started designating her home office as a "work-only" zone and setting strict work hours that she noticed a significant improvement in her well-being.

"At first, it was hard to disconnect," Anne shared, "but once I got used to it, I felt so much more present with my family and less stressed."

Still skeptical? Meet Kim, an HR manager who successfully drew the line between work and home:

"I used to think it was impossible to separate my work and personal life. I was always on call, even during dinner or family outings. But once I set strict boundaries, like turning off notifications and designating a work-free zone, my stress levels dropped significantly. I finally felt like I had control over my life again."

Creating these boundaries might take some getting used to, but the payoff is worth it. By keeping work at work, you can fully enjoy your personal time and recharge for the challenges ahead.

🤔 The Truth Behind "I'm OK ..."

Ever felt like you're carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders, but still muster a smile and say, "I'm OK?" You're not alone.

A recent survey revealed that 72% of HR professionals report feeling stressed and overwhelmed on a regular basis. The constant juggling of tasks, the emotional labor, and the pressure to be the backbone of an organization can take a toll.

Take a former Client of mine, for example. She's been in HR for over a decade. Every day, she listens to other people's problems, mediates conflicts, and ensures everyone is happy. But when her colleagues ask how she's doing, she automatically replies, "I'm OK."  But inside, she's anything but okay.

"There were days I felt like I was drowning, but I couldn't show it. I had to be the strong one. It wasn't until I started losing sleep and feeling anxious all the time that I realized I needed help." 

It’s crucial to recognize when you’re not okay and take steps to care for yourself. Here are some self-care tips:

• Schedule "Me Time:" Dedicate at least 30 minutes each day to yourself. Read a book, take a walk, or simply relax and unwind.

• Mindfulness Practices: Incorporate mindfulness or meditation exercises into your daily routine. Apps like Headspace or Calm can be helpful. You can even find free media on YouTube.

• Support Systems: Build a support system within and outside the workplace. Talk to trusted colleagues or seek coaching if needed.

Remember, it's perfectly okay to admit when you're not okay. Prioritize yourself just as much as you prioritize others.

Voices from the Field

Here are some heartfelt messages from our community of HR professionals about their experiences and how they cope:

♥ "When I feel overwhelmed, I remind myself that it's okay to take a break. A short walk or even just stepping away from my desk can make a huge difference." — Emily, HR Manager

♥ "I keep a journal where I jot down my thoughts and feelings. It's a great way to process the day's events and clear my mind." — Michael, HR Coordinator

♥ "Meditation has been a game-changer for me. Just 10 minutes a day helps me reset and approach problems with a fresh perspective." — Sarah, HR Director

I sat down with Jane, a current Client and HR veteran with over 20 years in the field, to discuss the emotional aspects of HR work and how she navigates the often-turbulent waters.

Q: What's the most emotionally challenging part of your job?

A: "The most difficult part lately has been handling layoffs. It's never easy to look someone in the eye and tell them their position has been eliminated. You carry that weight long after you leave the office."

Q: How do you cope with these emotional challenges?

A: "I've found that having a strong support network is key. Whether it's family, friends, or fellow HR professionals, you need someone to talk to and decompress with. I also make time for activities that rejuvenate me, like yoga and hiking."

Q: What advice would you give to fellow HR professionals?

A: "Don't try to shoulder everything on your own. Seek mentorship, communicate openly with your team, and always prioritize your mental health."

Have you faced a challenging situation and come out stronger? Share your story and inspire your fellow HR professionals.

Submit your stories to be featured in the upcoming editions of this newsletter. Let's celebrate resilience together!

🧩 Rediscovering Your Identity

Feeling like you've lost a part of yourself amidst all the roles you juggle daily?

You're not alone. Let's dive into how you can reconnect with your true self. 🌟

Exercise: The Mirror of Truth

1. Find a quiet space. Take a few deep breaths and relax.
2. Grab a mirror. Look into it and ask yourself: "Who am I, beyond my job?"
3. Write it down. Jot down the first words that come to mind. These spontaneous thoughts are a window to your true self.

Repeat this exercise whenever you feel overwhelmed. It's a small step, but an impactful one.

Motivational Quote:

"To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment." — Ralph Waldo Emerson

Here's a personal story from Micah, a seasoned HR professional:

"Last year, I hit a breaking point. I realized I didn't recognize myself anymore. One evening, I went for a walk — no phone, no distractions. Just me and my thoughts. It was during these walks that I started to rediscover my love for painting. Now, every weekend, I dedicate a few hours to my art. It’s my therapy and my escape."

Hobbies & Activities to Rediscover Yourself:

Transitioning from a multifaceted HR role back to your core identity can be challenging but not impossible. Here are some exercises and workshops designed to help you:

• Journaling: Write down your thoughts, dreams, and goals. It's a great way to reconnect with your inner self.
• Gardening: There's something about nurturing plants that helps you nurture yourself too.
• Yoga: Combining movement and mindfulness, yoga is an excellent way to center yourself and find balance.
• Identity Workshops: Join workshops focused on personal growth. Sessions often include group discussions, meditative practices, and activities that help you understand your unique identity.
• Creative Outlet Classes: Take up a hobby or creative class like painting, writing, or cooking. These activities can reignite your passions and remind you of who you are outside of work.

Rediscovering your identity is a journey. Take it one step at a time, and remember, it's okay to prioritize yourself. 🌱

Stories of Rediscovery

Inspiration comes from those who have walked the path before you. Here are some stories from HR professionals who successfully reclaimed their passions and interests:

• Jane's Story: After years in HR, Jane felt like she was losing herself. She joined a photography class, which reignited her passion for capturing moments. Now, she balances her HR role with freelance photography.
• Mark's Journey: Mark realized he missed playing guitar, something he loved before entering HR. By setting aside time each week for music, Mark found a renewed sense of joy and creativity that spills over into his professional life.
• Sara's Experience: Struggling with burnout, Sara attended a retreat focused on mindfulness and self-discovery. It helped her understand her values and set boundaries, leading to a more fulfilling life both at work and home.
• Mike's Wins: Dealing with self-doubt and confidence crushers, Mike created a 'win folder' where he keeps positive emails and notes from colleagues to help him stay motivated on tough days.

Reflect and Explore: Self-Reflective Questions

Self-reflection is a powerful tool for understanding yourself better. Here are some questions to get you started:

1. What activities bring me the most joy, and how often do I engage in them?
2. If I could spend a day doing anything I wanted, what would it be?
3. What are the values that are most important to me, and am I living in alignment with them?
4. How do I define success for myself, outside of my professional achievements?
5. What small changes can I make in my daily routine to incorporate more of my passions and interests?

Take a moment to ponder these questions. Write down your thoughts and revisit them often. Reconnecting with your true self is an ongoing journey, but every step you take brings you closer to a balanced, fulfilling life.

Self-Assessment: Are You Balanced?

Take this quick quiz to evaluate where you stand in balancing your work and personal life.

1. Do you find yourself thinking about work even during personal time?

   • Always
   • Sometimes
   • Never

2. How often do you engage in activities purely for personal enjoyment?

   • Daily
   • Weekly
   • Rarely

3. Do you feel more like "yourself" at work or outside of it?

   • At work
   • Outside work
   • It varies

Scoring:

• Mostly A's: You may need to re-evaluate your work-life balance. Consider implementing some of the tips mentioned.
• Mostly B's: You're on the right track, but there's room for improvement.
• Mostly C's: Great job! You're maintaining a good balance. Keep it up!

Finding the right balance between your professional and personal life isn't easy, but taking small, actionable steps can help you reconnect with who you truly are.

Are you ready to dive deeper and truly reconnect with the real you?

Click the button below to schedule a FREE Discovery Call with your Coach today and start on the path to unlocking your fullest potential. Let's personalize these strategies to fit your unique journey.

Rise to Radiance Discovery Call 

📆 Your Weekly Action Plan: Make it Happen!

We know you're juggling a lot, so let's dive into this week's action plan to help you recharge and recalibrate.

Monday: Mindfulness Magic 🧘‍♀️

Start your week with a 10-minute mindfulness meditation. Find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Let go of any stress and just be in the moment.

Tuesday: Take a Walk 🚶‍♂️

Lunchtime stroll, anyone? Step outside for a 20-minute walk. Feel the sun, breathe in fresh air, and let nature work its wonders on your mind and body.

Wednesday: Midweek Stretch 🧘‍♂️

Feeling the midweek slump? Try a simple stretching routine. Focus on your shoulders, neck, and back to release any tension. You'll feel lighter and more relaxed.

Thursday: Digital Detox 📵

Unplug for an hour. No emails, no screens. Read a book, doodle, or just sit in your favorite cozy corner. It's amazing what a little digital break can do.

Friday: Fun-Time Friday 🎉

End the week with a fun activity that you love. Whether it's cooking, painting, or dancing like no one's watching — do something that brings you joy.

Weekend: Relaxation Rituals 🛀

Treat yourself to a home spa day. Light some candles, play calming music, and enjoy a long, relaxing bath. Let your worries melt away.

I'd love to hear how your self-care journey is going! Share your progress, challenges, or favorite moments with our community. Let's support each other on this path to well-being.

Happy self-caring! 🌿

SPOTLIGHT: The 'Healthy Ways to Deal with Stress & Prevent Burnout' Program!

Are you wrestling with stress?

Struggling with burnout syndrome?

Well, here's the good news ...

This flagship course is meticulously designed to arm you with effective strategies to manage stress and ward off burnout. We're taking a holistic approach, focusing on mental, emotional, and physical health.

Now, what makes this program stand out?

→ It's comprehensive: We're covering a range of topics from mindfulness techniques to effective work-life balance strategies to sleep advice for maintaining energy.

→ It's practical: We don't just teach theory. Every lesson comes with actionable steps you can implement right away.

→ Supportive Community: You'll be part of a community where you can share your journey, learn from others, and get the encouragement you need.

→ 1:1 Coaching: Receive personalized coaching as often as needed during the length of the program, ensuring you get the support and guidance tailored to your unique situation.

So, who is this program for?

Whether you're an HR professional aiming to create a healthier workplace, or a busy bee just trying to juggle life's many demands without losing your sanity, this program is for you.

We're here to help you cultivate healthier responses to stress and, ultimately, prevent burnout.

Come, join us on this journey towards a healthier, happier you!

Enroll Now!

You Asked, We Answered: Community Q&A

Hey there, curious minds! I've received some interesting questions this past week, and guess what? I'm answering them right here, right now! Let's dive in ...

Q: "How can I better manage the stress of always being the 'bad guy' when enforcing policies?"

A: Remember, consistency is key. Establish clear, fair policies and stick to them. It helps to frame your role as ensuring fairness rather than being punitive. Also, make sure to take time for self-care – it's crucial. 

Got more questions? Don't keep them to yourself! Your burning questions could be featured (and answered) in the next newsletter. So, keep them coming! Click here to submit your questions.

Stay Curious, Stay Connected

Questions or just wanna chat? I’m all ears! Schedule a 30-minute Virtual Coffee Chat here or email me at SummitwaysHR@gmail.com.

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Stay tuned for more insights in the upcoming 'Beyond HR: Your Guide to Personal and Professional Triumphs Beyond the Office!'   —   Until then, keep learning, keep growing, and keep winning!