Mental Health – Fine & Fifty

Unlocking New Friendships After 50: Expert Tips for Building a Social Life

In the symphony of life, the melody of friendships evolves and resonates uniquely as we journey through the chapters of our existence. Yet, there lies a common thread that binds us all – the innate yearning for companionship and connection. Now, picture this: stepping into the vibrant realm of your 50s, where the tapestry of social circles may have shifted, and the prospect of forging new friendships and making friends might seem as daunting as it is exhilarating.

But fear not, fellow wanderer, for in this digital age brimming with opportunities and possibilities, the canvas of your social life awaits a masterpiece yet to be painted. As we navigate the landscape of the golden years, the significance of cultivating meaningful relationships becomes ever more paramount – a delicate dance between nostalgia and the thrill of the unknown.

In this oasis of wisdom and discovery, we unveil the art of “Building a Social Life After 50: Tips for Making and Keeping Friends.” Embark on a journey where age is but a number, and the essence of human connection transcends time and space, unveiling a tapestry woven with shared laughter, heartfelt conversations, and the promise of new horizons.

So, let’s delve into the treasure trove of expert insights and invaluable advice, as we unravel the secrets to unlocking new friendships and nurturing the social tapestry that colors our lives.

Embracing Change: Understanding the Dynamics of Social Circles After 50

As we enter the golden years, it’s natural for our social circles to undergo changes. Friends may move away, retire, or simply have different priorities. Understanding and embracing these dynamics is crucial in building a vibrant social life after 50.

One key aspect to consider is the concept of “social capital.” This refers to the resources and connections we have within our social networks. It’s important to recognize that social capital can change over time, and that’s okay. Embrace the opportunity to meet new people, make older friends and expand your horizons.

Another factor to keep in mind is the importance of adaptability. As we age, our interests and preferences may evolve. Be open to trying new activities or joining different groups that align with your current passions. This willingness to embrace change can lead to exciting opportunities for connection.

The Power of Vulnerability: Opening Up to New Connections

Vulnerability is often seen as a weakness, but in reality, it’s a strength when it comes to building meaningful friendships and making friends. Opening up about your experiences, fears, and dreams allows others to connect with you on a deeper level.

When meeting new people, be willing to share your authentic self. Show genuine interest in others by asking open-ended questions and actively listening to their responses. By creating a safe space for vulnerability, you’ll foster connections built on trust and understanding, which will also allow the possibility to make new friends.

Finding Your Tribe: Identifying Shared Interests and Common Ground

A great way to meet like-minded individuals is by identifying shared interests and common ground. Joining clubs or organizations centered around hobbies or causes you’re passionate about can lead you straight into the arms of your tribe.

Take some time for self-reflection and consider what truly brings you joy. Whether it’s hiking, painting, volunteering, or book clubs, there’s a community out there waiting to welcome you with open arms. By engaging in activities you love, you’ll naturally attract others who share your passions and hopefully make new friends.

Beyond the Comfort Zone: Exploring New Hobbies and Activities

Stepping outside of your comfort zone is essential for personal growth and expanding your social network. Don’t be afraid to try new hobbies or activities that pique your interest.

Consider taking a class or workshop in something you’ve always wanted to learn. Not only will this provide an opportunity to meet people, but it will also give you a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. Embrace the unknown and watch as your social circle blossoms.

Digital Bridges: Leveraging Technology to Expand Your Social Network

In today’s digital age, technology can be a powerful tool for building connections. Embrace social media platforms and online communities that align with your interests.

Join online forums or groups related to your hobbies or passions. Engage in conversations, share experiences, and connect with individuals who resonate with you. Virtual friendships can be just as meaningful as those formed in person.

The Art of Listening: Cultivating Meaningful Conversations and Connections

Listening is an art form that holds the key to deepening connections with others. Practice active listening by giving your full attention when engaging in conversations.

Avoid interrupting or jumping ahead with your own stories. Instead, focus on truly understanding the other person’s perspective and emotions. By showing genuine interest and empathy, you’ll create space for authentic connections to flourish and to make new friends.

Nurturing Friendships: Building Trust and Loyalty Over Time

Building and maintaining friendships requires effort and commitment. It’s important to nurture these connections by regularly reaching out, checking in, and showing support.

Plan regular get-togethers or outings with your friends. Create shared experiences and memories that strengthen the bond between you. Remember, friendships are a two-way street, so be sure to reciprocate the love and care you receive.

Celebrating Diversity: Embracing Different Perspectives and Experiences

As we age, it’s crucial to embrace diversity in our social circles. Surrounding ourselves with individuals from different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives enriches our lives in countless ways.

Seek out opportunities to engage with people who have different life experiences than your own. Attend cultural events or join organizations that promote inclusivity. Embrace the beauty of diversity and let it shape your social tapestry.

Self-Care in Social Settings: Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Well-being

In the pursuit of building a vibrant social life, it’s essential to prioritize self-care. Set boundaries that protect your well-being and ensure you have time for rest and rejuvenation.

Avoid overcommitting yourself or feeling obligated to attend every social event. Listen to your body and mind, giving yourself permission to decline invitations when needed. Remember, quality over quantity is key when it comes to friendships.

Conclusion: Crafting a Vibrant Social Life Beyond 50

In conclusion, building a social life after 50 is an exciting journey filled with opportunities for growth, connection, and joy. By embracing change, opening up to vulnerability, finding your tribe, making friends and exploring new hobbies, leveraging technology, cultivating meaningful conversations, nurturing friendships over time, celebrating diversity, and prioritizing self-care – you’ll unlock the doors to a vibrant social tapestry.

Remember, age is but a number, and the desire for companionship and connection knows no bounds. So go forth with confidence, armed with these expert tips for making and keeping friends. Your social life after 50 awaits – embrace it with open arms.

Paul Windust

Passionate about how we deal with getting older and maintaining both our physical and mental wellbeing. I’m keen to take life head on and explore the challenges and possibilities we face as we age in a positive and honest way.

Game On: Unveiling the Surprising Phenomenon of Senior Gamers

Are you ready to enter the captivating world where pixels meet experience? Picture this: a room filled with laughter, camaraderie, and unbridled enthusiasm. No, this is not your typical teenage hangout or college dormitory. This is the realm of senior gamers, a surprising phenomenon that is taking the gaming world by storm.

In a society that often associates gaming with the younger generation, it may come as a shock to discover the rise of senior gamers, defying stereotypes and redefining what it means to be an avid gamer. Gone are the days when gaming was solely seen as a pastime for the young, as a growing number of individuals over 50 are embracing this digital realm with open arms.

But what is it about gaming that has captured the hearts and minds of older adults? What drives them to pick up a controller or immerse themselves in virtual worlds? In this blog post, we will dive deep into the fascinating world of senior gamers, exploring the reasons behind their passion and uncovering the undeniable benefits of gaming after 50. So, get ready to level up as we unravel the secrets behind The Rise of Senior Gamers: Why Gaming is Great After 50.

An Unexpected Phenomenon: Defying the Age Barrier in Gaming

Gone are the days when gaming was solely associated with the younger generation. More and more individuals over 50 are embracing this digital realm and immersing themselves in virtual adventures. What was once considered a pastime for the young has now become a passion for older adults. So, what exactly is driving this unexpected phenomenon? One reason could be the appeal of gaming for older adults.

One reason could be the appeal of gaming for older adults. As people age, their physical abilities may decline, and they may face limitations in their mobility. Gaming provides a platform where these limitations can be overcome, allowing seniors to engage in activities they may not be able to do in the physical world. Whether it’s racing against opponents, solving puzzles, or embarking on epic quests, gaming offers a sense of freedom and excitement.

Additionally, gaming offers social interaction, which is crucial for the well-being of seniors. Online multiplayer games allow older adults to connect with friends and family members, as well as meet new people who share similar interests. This social aspect of gaming helps combat loneliness and isolation that can often accompany the aging process.

The Appeal of Gaming for Older Adults

Gaming has emerged as an unexpected source of entertainment and escape for senior citizens. With its unique ability to transport them to new worlds and thrilling adventures, gaming offers a break from the monotonous routines of everyday life. The elderly can explore uncharted realms, test their mental and physical abilities, and immerse themselves in captivating experiences.

For many older individuals, gaming provides a chance to break free from their daily grind and engage in something truly captivating. It offers an immersive experience that stimulates their minds and keeps them mentally active. Whether it’s solving puzzles, strategizing in battle, or exploring virtual landscapes, gaming offers a range of challenges that can keep seniors engaged and entertained.

Moreover, gaming also provides an opportunity for social interaction and connection. Online multiplayer games allow senior gamers to connect with others, forming friendships and communities within the gaming world. This social aspect of gaming helps combat feelings of loneliness and isolation that some seniors may experience.

Social Connections and Community Building in the Gaming World

Contrary to popular belief, gaming can be an incredibly social activity. Many games offer multiplayer options where players can team up with friends or connect with other gamers from around the world. This sense of community fosters friendships, camaraderie, and even healthy competition among senior gamers. Research has shown that gaming can have a positive impact on cognitive abilities. Here are a few cognitive benefits of gaming:

1. Improved problem-solving skills: Many games require players to solve puzzles, find solutions to complex problems, or strategize to advance through levels. This can enhance critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

2. Enhanced memory and attention: Gaming often involves remembering specific rules, locations, or sequences, which can improve memory skills. Additionally, some games require focused attention and quick reaction times, which can enhance concentration and attention span.

3. Increased multitasking abilities: Many games involve managing multiple tasks simultaneously, such as controlling a character, monitoring health or resources, and making decisions under time constraints. This can improve multitasking skills and the ability to handle several tasks at once.

4. Boosted creativity: Some games allow players to create or customize characters, environments, or storylines. This encourages creativity and imagination, as players can use their artistic talents to design unique elements within the game.

5. Improved hand-eye coordination: Gaming often requires precise movements and coordination between the hands and eyes. Regular gaming can enhance hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.

6. Enhanced spatial reasoning: Many games involve navigating through virtual environments or solving spatial puzzles. This can improve spatial reasoning skills, including the ability to visualize and manipulate objects mentally.

7. Better decision-making skills: Gaming often involves making decisions under pressure or with limited information, which can strengthen decision-making abilities in real-life situations.

While these cognitive benefits can be gained from gaming, it’s important to maintain a healthy balance and engage in a variety of activities to promote overall well-being.

Cognitive Benefits: Keeping the Mind Sharp Through Gaming

Engaging in mobile video games can be highly beneficial for seniors, especially those above 50. The mental challenges presented for mobile gamers, such as strategic thinking, problem-solving, and quick decision-making, can significantly improve cognitive abilities. These games require players to think critically, plan, and adapt to changing situations, which can enhance memory, attention span, and multitasking skills in seniors.

For seniors looking to keep their minds sharp and active, gaming provides a fun and stimulating way to achieve this. The immersive nature of playing video games keeps seniors engaged and mentally stimulated, helping to prevent cognitive decline. Moreover, gaming offers a social aspect, allowing seniors to connect and interact with other players, fostering a sense of community, and reducing feelings of loneliness or isolation.

In conclusion, gaming is not just for the younger generation. Older gamers can reap the benefits of strategic thinking, problem-solving, and quick decision-making that video games offer. By engaging in gaming, seniors can keep their minds sharp, improve cognitive abilities, and enjoy a fun and stimulating activity that provides both mental and social benefits.

How Gaming Boosts Happiness and Reduces Stress

Playing video games has become a popular pastime for people of all ages, and research has shown that it can have numerous benefits for seniors. One of the most notable advantages is its ability to boost happiness and reduce stress levels. The immersive nature of gaming allows seniors to escape from the pressures of everyday life and enter a world where they have control over their actions and outcomes. This sense of autonomy can be empowering and uplifting, leading to increased happiness and reduced stress.

But the benefits of gaming for seniors don’t stop at emotional well-being. Surprisingly, gaming can also have positive physical effects. Many video games require players to engage in physical movements, whether it’s swinging a virtual tennis racket or dancing to the beat of the music. These movements can help improve coordination, flexibility, and even stamina in older adults.

Gaming can be a fantastic activity for the middle-aged gamer, mid-life gamer, and senior gamers. Providing not only entertainment but also significant benefits for those who played video games, including improvement in their mental and physical well-being. So, seniors, it’s time to grab that controller and join in on the fun!

The Surprising Impact of Gaming on Senior Health

Beyond the physical benefits, being able to play video games can also provide a means of personal achievement and self-expression. Seniors who may have retired or have limited opportunities for social interactions can connect with others through online gaming communities. They can join multiplayer games, communicate with fellow gamers, and even form friendships. Additionally, video games offer a variety of challenges and goals that seniors can strive to achieve, boosting their sense of accomplishment and providing a sense of purpose.

Playing video games may not be the first activity that comes to mind for seniors, but it can offer numerous physical and emotional benefits. From improving coordination and flexibility to providing a platform for personal achievement and social connections, gaming can be a surprising and enjoyable pastime for seniors looking to stay active and engaged. So, game on, seniors!

Gaming as a Means of Personal Achievement and Self-Expression

For many senior gamers, achieving goals within a video game world gives them a sense of accomplishment that carries over into their daily lives. Whether it’s completing a difficult level or conquering an epic boss battle, these achievements can boost self-confidence and provide a sense of purpose.

Gaming also allows for self-expression through character customization and storytelling. Seniors can create unique avatars that reflect their personalities and embark on virtual journeys that resonate with their own life experiences.

Addressing the Stigma and Barriers for Senior Gamers

Despite the many benefits of gaming for older gamers, there are still challenges to be addressed. One of the main barriers is the stigma associated with gaming and age. Society often views gaming as a childish or frivolous activity, making it difficult for seniors to openly embrace their passion.

However, as more and more seniors join the gaming community, this stigma is slowly being shattered. Organizations and initiatives are emerging to support senior gamers and provide them with resources, communities, and events tailored to their needs.

The Thriving Future of Senior Gamers

The rise of older gamers is a testament to the power of gaming to transcend age barriers and bring people together. With its appeal in providing entertainment, social connections, cognitive benefits, emotional well-being, physical health improvements, personal achievement, and self-expression, it’s no wonder that more older adults are embracing this digital realm.

Older gamers engaging in the video game world is a testament to the power of gaming to transcend age barriers and bring people together. With its appeal in providing entertainment, social connections, cognitive benefits, emotional well-being, physical health improvements, personal achievement, and self-expression, gaming has become a popular pastime for older adults.

So let’s celebrate the rise of older gamers and encourage individuals of all ages to grab a controller or keyboard, start playing video games, and join in on the fun! Whether you’re 50 or 80, gaming can provide a wide range of benefits and a sense of camaraderie. The digital realm knows no age limits, and senior gamers are proof that it’s never too late to pick up a game and experience the joy of play. Game on!

Paul Windust

What are the benefits of older people playing video games?

The first ’real’ digital native generation

Many people believe that we are the first digital generation. I’m talking about us, Gen X’ers that first revelled in the wonder that was PONG, then the Nintendo 8 bit revolution that kept us enthralled. However, more ‘responsible’ adults told us that TV would rot our brains and cause the moral decline of the world as we knew it. Of course this didn’t happen and there have been many technical innovations and fads since then, bearing the brunt of the same doom-mongering.

Who are Generation X?

Marketing and advertising have always – since their inception – wanted to know who their target audience or potential customers are. This is primarily to help companies target advertising, communications and marketing. It is crucial to understand groups and their perceived characteristics and behaviors.

Generation X are those people born between 1965 and 1980. We are the children of the Baby Boomer generation and the first on the front-line of the silicon chip revolution and the advent of the Internet and World Wide Web.

In marketing terms Generation Z (those born between 1997 and 2012) are what are known as ‘Digital Natives’. They have been born into the world of Tablets, Cell Phones, smart this, smart that and super fast access to the web. They have known nothing else but technology literally at their fingertips.

So where do ‘Older Gamers’ sit in the hierarchy of technology?

Our children do not see the device while they play games and they also value social interaction in their play. They only see access to information that they need and want. Games and gaming are so ubiquitous now, we as Gen-Xers play games while our children do not see the actual device. We tell them they over-share on digital platforms, they call us the same things we call our parents and the circle of life comes round again!

But there is a serious side to all of this and that is the acknowledgment that technology can have a positive effect on us as we get older. We can use it to try and stave off the obvious signs of degradation in our facilities and use it to improve our brains as we age. And not just for our mental health, there are clear physical benefits as well.

There have been many fantastic studies around the belief that gaming can benefit people in later life in various ways and even improve some serious conditions.

Clinical Trial to Determine if Video Games can Relieve Late-Life Depression: https://healthcare.utah.edu/publicaffairs/news/2021/07/morimoto-game-depression.php
Gaming Your Mental Health: A Narrative Review of Mitigating Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety Using Commercial Video Games: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34132648/
Can video games relieve depression in older adults: https://kslnewsradio.com/1962030/depression-in-older-adults-video-games

Playing games can help rather than hinder brain degradation as we age and improve cognitive skills

My main focus here is console games, as they are more accessible to older users and PC gaming is another whole story and revelation all of its own. There can be many social and cognitive benefits that video games including VR can offer older adults

Andrew Carle,is the founder of the nation’s only graduate Concentration in Senior Living Administration, within the Georgetown University Program in Aging & Health. In 2004, he coined the term “Nana” Technology and has consulted on technologies for older adults with companies including APPLE, Nintendo, GTX Corporation, and Vigorous Mind, among others.

Health Benefits for Older Gamers:

BETTER EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING.

So it’s no surprise that older players who enjoy video game play find themselves in better moods. A study of 140 seniors over 63 years old concluded that both regular and occasional video gamers reported enhanced well-being, social functioning, and health than non-gamers. In addition, they reported significantly lower rates of depression among people who play video games than those who don’t.

IMPROVED BALANCE

Video games can provide physical benefits, too, especially for seniors. Certain games that require physical interaction, like Wii Sports and similar titles, can help seniors improve balance, coordination, and reflexes due to the quick decision-making and action required to play. Some seniors have even reported faster walking speeds as a result of playing video games. It may not be obvious at first, but improving cognitive skills can translate into greater balance and gait.

ENHANCED COGNITIVE ABILITY

Video games have the potential to support improvement not only emotionally and physically, but cognitively, as well. In fact, a University of California San Francisco study showed significant improvement in cognitive ability, effectively reversing signs of aging in seniors who played 3D virtual reality games.

REDUCED RISK OF ALZHEIMER’S

With an estimated 5.5 million seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s in the U.S. alone, treatment methods are heavily scrutinized and highly valued. Recent research has demonstrated a link between playing video games and a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s as well as improving working memory. The study looked at connections between gaming and tissue growth in different areas of the brain — especially the hippocampus, an area associated with memory and Alzheimer’s progression.

IMPROVING REACTION TIMES

As people age, their reaction speed usually decreases. This reduction in reaction speed can be dangerous in some situations, such as driving. Studies show that games that require quick decision-making and reaction in a short time can, to some extent, improve the rate of response of older adults.

What types of non-digital games are best and why?

Although this article is mainly talking about console games. Many of them require some element of physical activity, but especially dexterity need to play. There are also non-digital games that can also help to improve cognitive intelligence in older adults. Games like:

– Chess or Checkers – games with an element of strategy to get the brain working
– Word games – crossword puzzles are great, they can help to improve memory
– Jigsaw puzzles, good for manual dexterity

We could go on and on, but any games that influence our brain in these ways will benefit us and help us cope with some of the common ailments and degenerative elements associated with aging. According to some studies, the non-competitive nature of some games can foster a sense of community among its players.

How many old gamers are there?

While many people assume that only teenagers and children play computer games, the reality is much different. Research has found that around 41% of gamers are between the ages of 18 and 49. In addition, 26% of people who play computer games are over the age of 50!

In addition, studies have revealed that older people play video games to test their memory and logic skills. Older people tend to prefer card games, computerized board games and puzzles. This may be due to the fact that their reaction time is somewhat slower than younger people, which makes it difficult to compete in arcade-style games.

Many elderly gamers enjoy playing “active” computer games like those available on the [Wii]. Games on the Wii use a motion-sensitive controller to manipulate objects on the screen. The player holds the controller in their hand and moves their arm or entire body to control the action on the screen.

Helping older adults remain technically literate

Anything that keeps us active is also a positive outcome from playing these types of games. There is also the factor that they can bring together and engage different generations in a way that maybe board games don’t. It’s not to say that board games don’t have their place. They do. However, bridging that gap between digital natives of the Gen Z and Millennials generation and older adults can only be a good thing.

It’s a positive way to bring us together in an age where technology helps us, but can move us further from the social contact we need as human beings. The older generations can feel left behind, and it’s natural for us to feel that ‘our’ generation is the influential, when in fact, bringing us all together shows we can learn from each other.

Conclusion

There are many positive and measurable benefits for older adults using console games. Any kind of activity can be beneficial in terms of improved mental health, physical dexterity, and improved cognitive activity.

There is also a social side to this activity for all generations. This is something we can show to our parents, grandparents and promote it as a positive activity for us all. We gain so much more when we connect with others.

The digital age has brought about many amazing leaps in understanding and tools that can help us share information, process tasks and help make certain tasks easier. What we also need to focus on is the positive effects it can have on us as we pass on knowledge. We need to involve our elders in this new age of gaming.

Paul Windust

How do I stay motivated at work after 50?

Why do we start losing motivation at work after 50? The reasons why older employees can become unmotivated at work especially as we age. For example, boredom, dissatisfaction, and general malaise brought about by illness or depression, these are some examples of extreme or serious manifestations of dis-engagement. Our ability to learn new things or to be willing to learn new things decrease as we age, and this can be exacerbated by working in a role or an industry for a long period of time.

As human beings, our needs can be grouped into 3 main areas:

Basic needs: food; shelter; warmth; safety and security – these are unchanged since we evolved into modern humans
Physiological needs: friends; love; feelings of accomplishment – in our modern world, our connections and prestige can be vital to our worth as members of society
Self-fulfilment needs feeling ‘successful’; achieving our potential; creative activities – these needs our part who we are as modern humans, and can have a dramatic effect on our motivation at work

Why do we lose motivation as we get older?

By the time most of us have reached 50 years old, in our personal lives and our work lives ticked off many of our personal ambitions or goals that we had when we were younger.

Families may have grown you may have reached the ceiling in your field and the drive and ambition you had a younger person will be waning.
This can lead to the view – especially in the modern business world – that older employees are too old to, re-train, be cutting edge, or have the go-getter attitude of their younger colleagues.

This kind of you can be reinforced by the natural fact that older people can be more realistic and that can be misconstrued as pessimism.

The role of motivation at work is its importance

Older workers can be considered too old to focus, train, be cutting edge, or relevant as we place a premium in the business world on employees being go – getters, motivated.

The intrinsic motivation apparent in younger employees, that positive attitude can be lacking in older adults, which is why employee engagement needs to consider the needs of a diverse group of employees.
Highly motivated workers will complete tasks, efficiently, on time and to a higher quality. This has a knock-on effect for the whole workforce and more importantly your clients. Happy workers present a professional and motivated workforce to your clients, who in turn will be happier with the results, creating more work.

There are many scientific studies on why motivation is important, why we can lose that same motivation we may have had in our twenties and how that affects us. The simple fact is, we spend much of our waking life at work. As we get older our desire to achieve (at work) may decrease as other things take precedence.

Common Causes of de-motivation

Older employees can have specific issues in their lives that can create a dip in motivation. But all of us will have periods in our lives that impact our work.

Being overworked: Having too much work can be overwhelming and is one of the most common causes of employee dissatisfaction.
Not enough leisure time: There will always be the need to go over and above for our work. This can lead to an unrealistic expectation on what you can complete in a normal working week. Be realistic about what you can achieve and set boundaries.
Life Issues: Sometimes things hit us out of the blue and ‘life happens’. We’ve all been there and it’s important that you are supported by your employer. Work with your employer so they understand how this may affect your motivation or working environment and come to an agreement on how to tackle this.
Caught in the Pay Trap. This can be common for workers over 50. You have a got to a certain level and your pay reflects that. Your lifestyle will be geared to that level, and any thoughts of changing career and taking a financial hit can be an impossible way forward for many people.

Changes to our working environment

There are two main schools of thought about how we should approach work especially in these modern times post-covid. Both options have pros and cons and more importantly both working environments are open to us now as many businesses are showing and increased willingness to offer them to staff. It has been shown that offering a flexible approach has a positive effect on mental health, job satisfaction and employee retention.

Working at home – the pros and cons

Working from home all your interaction with your fellow workers will be over the phone via various tele-conferencing tools. Something many of us have come to know and sometimes hate, during the Covid lockdowns.

Some people prefer this way of working as it suits their home life and personality. You may have a young family and need to share parenting duties, or you might just be more suited to this kind of working environment.
Some important things to consider are that there is less in person or face-to-face contact with your colleagues. Those little meetings of chance that sometimes happen around the water cooler don’t really happen when you’re working from home. So, it’s important to have time to just chat to colleagues about non-related work issues, so you get that sense of belonging.

Working in the office – the double-edged sword

There is a view that this model suites younger employees as they have more social time available and like the interaction with their work friends. And while this type of work is important, there are other factors to consider. The commute is probably the biggest factor to consider and can be a major drain on all workers motivation.

There are of course, many positives for the in-work model. Many people need the interaction with other workers and has a positive effect on many people’s mental health, which can also lead to greater job satisfaction.

How is the lack of motivation exhibiting, what are your triggers?

It’s important to understand how this lack of motivation is exhibiting what your triggers might be. These can be everyday annoyances or frustrations that can build up over time and are part of our normal busy world. Symptoms can include:

Stress
Tiredness
Short Temper
Burn out
Malaise
If any of these are affecting your work, it’s important to recognize them and how they affect your performance.

Has it been noticed by colleagues or managers, is there help on offer and how do you access that help or support. Making your work environment more engaging can keep you interested at work. It may be small things like prioritizing your time, offering to become a mentor, or just working out for yourself how to think about work as not the main factor in your life, but rather the means to explore more fulfilling activities.

Anxiety and stress be extremely demotivation. This anxiety, sometimes brought about by the repetitive nature of working at the same thing for many years. The stress of all these factors can manifest not only as stress, but in many other negative ways as outlined above.

What can I do to tackle lost motivation?

If work is increasingly taking a backseat to what you want to spend your time on, then this can be tricky to balance. The most drastic approach to effect change would be to look to take on other roles within your current industry or take a new path completely, or (if possible) retire early.

But for most people this is not a viable option, but there are other ways and small daily tasks that can fight lowering motivation levels.

Daily tasks and little wins that can improve your motivation levels

Develop a good morning routine – sometimes easier said than done, but a good night’s sleep then some gentle stretching or yoga can set you up for the day
Take regular breaks – it’s important to take a break often, rest that brain and those eyes if using screens. Take a walk around, roll the shoulders or whatever works to get the blood flowing again
Be organized– simple to-do lists are a good way to make sure that nothing will surprise you when you get down to work. A few minutes at the end of the day noting tasks for the next can lower anxiety. Listing the big tasks first also means you tackle the trickier or more intensive tasks when you are at your freshest
Nurture external motivations – go see that movie, meet friends for a walk or a meal, take up that hobby. As you get older cultivating external motivations can boost your moral and ease stress and anxiety

Conclusion

If there is one thing that we can take away from all of this, is that relaxation, physical exercise and creating positive affirmation within your life, as you get older, is a strong step towards being happier at work.

Motivation can take many forms, and for younger or older employees, maintaining a positive outlook can improve your working life. These external motivations can be used in conjunction with improved working practices, to make you more productive, but more importantly, happier.

Paul Windust

How You can Fight Stress With Physical Exercise

Stress is a constant in our lives and for good reason; in certain situations, it is vital to our existence. Our bodies are hardwired to respond to threats. These stress responses were (and still are) a necessary and adaptive measure from our early ancestors, as it allowed them to either fight or flee when faced with a threat.

We no longer face the dangers of our early ancestors, but those responses, brought about by our busy and hectic modern lifestyles, can cause a negative effect on our physical health and mental well-being.

Definition of stress

Stress is an essential trigger in our fight-or-flight response. This response causes the release of hormones in the body, including adrenaline, also known by its medical name, epinephrine.

The symptoms of the fight-or-flight response are a result of the reorganization of your body to help you deal with a threatening situation. These symptoms include:

Increased heart rate
Increased blood flow to muscles
Increased blood pressure
Faster breathing and deeper breathing
Dilated pupils
Decrease in digestive activity

This list is not exhaustive and there can be other symptoms that may be specific to you alone. Getting checked out and talking to medically trained staff, is a good first step.

Negative effects of chronic stress on physical and mental health

Chronic stress can cause a negative response in your body. It is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and increased cholesterol.

It also increases inflammation in your body, which causes a range of health problems, from joint stiffness, blurred vision to fatigue. It can also lead to an increased risk of depression and anxiety.

Chronic stress may also be a symptom of an underlying health condition. Scientific American reported that researchers at the University of California at San Francisco found that the chronic stress experienced by people suffering from serious diseases like cancer, stroke, diabetes and heart disease can be reduced if they engage in regular physical exercise.

Negative effects of stress can include:

Anxiety and depression
Weight gain
Muscle tension
Cardiovascular problems
Sexual problems
Respiratory problems
Water retention
Premature aging
Impaired immune system

Physical activity has a profound effect on your body at a cellular level. Working out regularly increases the amount of mitochondria in your cells. These are like tiny batteries for your brain, they convert the energy from food into energy needed to keep all your bodies organs functioning correctly.

In addition to these power boost for body, exercise boosts the number of brain cells in the hippocampus, a portion of your brain that has a major role in learning and memory.

Exercise as an effective tool for reducing stress

Many studies have concluded that regular exercise can lower levels of chronic stress and reduce anxiety.

One of the most important parts of the exercise process is to find an activity that is enjoyable. This will make it easier for you to develop good health habits for life. The most beneficial exercises for stress are those that are performed regularly and at a moderate intensity.

Choose an activity you enjoy

We know that exercise is a medically proven way to reduce your relieve stress. The types of exercise that can help with these positive changes are many and varied.

Make time for your favorite sport or learn a new one
Go for a brisk walk
Play with the kids
Do housework
Go for a run
Join a gym (with a friend) or exercise with a personal trainer

Starting any exercise routine depends on:

If you are physically able to exercise
Your fitness level
Your goals
What activities you enjoy

One of the first and most important things you should do is to consult your physician and discuss what might work best for you. Once you have a green light, you’re good to go!

Bear in mind that good exercise plan is one that you can do realistically, 4-5 times a week. Build rest or less stressful exercise into your plan, as rest is also vital for a healthy body. That said, your plan should be progressive and should gradually invoke more physical exertion, up to a comfortable level for you to maintain.

A common mistake when using exercise to combat stress is overtraining. If you do not recover properly, you can find yourself in a vicious cycle of feeling more fatigued and more stressed out. Aim to work out at a pace that leaves you energized and clear headed.

The main thing is that you enjoy what you are doing and that you are being more active. If you know you will not enjoy a certain exercise, don’t make it the main part of your regime (or any part). 
Mix it up, get the body doing different things at different times, this is a great way to build strength, which in turn can protect you from injury.

Using exercise to combat stress will have the added positive effects of making you fitter and healthier overall. But one of the main things to remember is to take time for yourself if you need to. A brisk walk on the fresh air can sometimes be more beneficial than hours in a gym.

Wether you exercise to lose weight or just to get fit, the positive benefits on your mental health are assured.

Make time for exercise

A 2010 study was the first of its kind to investigate the effects of exercise on stress levels, found that 20 minutes of exercise three to five times a week can help lower your levels of stress

Physical exercise can also provide long-term benefits in stress reduction. Studies have also shown that aerobic exercise has a positive effect on mood and anxiety, independent of its impact on body weight.

A study found that individuals with a high level of physical fitness may have a reduced risk for stress, especially for chronic stress.

10 Tips for starting an exercise plan to help deal with stress or anxiety

Find an activity you enjoy: This will make it easier to stick with it. See it as a positive way to manage stress rather than a chore. Some options might include walking or running, dancing, swimming, or practicing yoga.
Make time for it: It can be challenging to fit exercise into a busy schedule, but it’s important to prioritize it. Try to carve out a specific time each day or week for your chosen activity. It can be as short as a 10-minute walk around the block initially.
Start small: If you’re new to exercise or feeling especially stressed, it’s okay to start small and gradually increase your intensity and duration. Overdoing it can actually increase stress rather than reducing it.
Consider the time of day: Some people find that exercising in the morning helps them start their day off on a positive note and set the tone for the rest of the day. Others prefer to wind down with exercise in the evening.
Don’t put too much pressure on yourself: It’s important to remember that exercise is one tool among many for managing stress, and it’s not a magic solution. It’s okay if you have a less-than-perfect workout or if you need to take a break. Be kind to yourself and remember that the point is to reduce stress, not add to it.
Consider joining a class or working with a personal trainer: If you’re not sure where to start or need some extra motivation, consider joining a fitness class or working with a personal trainer. A class can provide a sense of community and support, and a trainer can help you create a personalized exercise plan that meets your needs and goals.
Mix it up: Doing the same activity every day can become monotonous and potentially even increase stress. Mixing up your workouts can help keep things interesting and provide a greater variety of stress-reducing benefits.
Get enough sleep: Exercise can help you sleep better, but it’s important to also make sure you’re getting enough rest. Poor sleep can increase stress and make it harder to cope with life’s challenges. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and create a relaxing bedtime routine.
Don’t forget about the power of nature: Getting outside and immersing yourself in nature can be a powerful way to reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Consider going for a hike, a bike ride, or a swim in a natural setting. The combination of physical activity and being in nature can be especially effective for stress reduction.
Enjoy it! Make it something you look forward to, not a chore to endure.

Don’t put too much pressure on yourself

It’s really important to seek medical advice before starting an exercise routine. By incorporating physical exercise into your routine, you can effectively combat stress and improve your overall well-being. Remember to choose an activity you enjoy, make time for it, start small, and be kind to yourself.

Practice deep breathing to help with mental stress

There has been much said – and written about – Mindfulness and its benefits. There are many variations on the technique, known as Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. At the heart of this are deep breathing exercises that can help you in. a stressful situation or with sleep.

It is a form of deep breathing, which helps you focus on the here and now. It is fast becoming a way to de-stress and focus the mind.

Here is a simple technique for reducing stress which is easily learnt and if you are consistent with it, can help you manage stress effectively. This technique is adapted from Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), an approach which has been shown to be highly effective in reducing your overall stress levels.

Step 1: Find a quiet place where you will not be disturbed and you can sit or lie down comfortably.

Step 2: Next, focus your attention on your breathing. This can be done over two minutes or longer if you prefer.

Step 3: Breathe in slowly through your nose and allow your stomach to gently rise. Then breathe out slowly through your mouth, feeling your stomach gently settle.

Step 4: If you get distracted, just bring your attention back to your breath.

Step 5: Sit for a few minutes after this exercise, try to extend the calm and relaxed feeling.

The best time for this exercise is first thing in the morning and before you go to sleep. If you can’t work that into your day, try to find a quiet spot during the day to practice.

Conclusion

By incorporating regular physical activity into your stress management routine and considering these additional tips, you can effectively combat stress and improve your overall well-being.

For your mental and physical wellbeing, consider doing something you enjoy, carve out some time for yourself, start with small steps, practice mindful breathing, and don’t be too hard on yourself. Additionally, you can join a class or work with a private trainer, explore nature and the outdoors, vary your exercises, get enough restful sleep, and reach out to a professional if necessary.

The main take-away from all of this, is that being active can, and will help, with reducing stress and anxiety. Will it cure more deep-seated physiological and/or physiological issues, not by itself.

If you have deeper feeling of sadness, despair, hopelessness or just have concerns over your deeper mental health, I would urge you to speak to someone. That could be a friend or one of the many organizations across the USA that provide both state and federal help.

People who can help

Call 911
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline): 988 for English or Spanish, or Lifeline Chat
Crisis Text Line: Text SIGNS to 741741 for 24/7, anonymous, free crisis counseling
Disaster Distress Helpline: CALL or TEXT 1-800-985-5990 (press 2 for Spanish)

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