WellMe – Take Notice

Earlier in the year, we launched the wellbeing initiative WellMe for our Churchill colleagues. The programme consists of five pillars that are designed to promote positive mindsets, personal development, and physical and mental health awareness. These include:

• Be Active
• Keep Learning
• Give Back
• Connect
• Take Notice

We’ve covered ‘Be Active’, ‘Keep Learning’, ‘Give Back’ and ‘Connect’ in previous blogs. This month, we’re focusing on ‘Take Notice’.

We live in a fast-paced world with a constant focus on the future – tasks that need to be completed, deadlines to meet, bills to pay, appointments to make. It can be easy to be swept away in the future and forget to take any time to focus on the present.

Studies have shown that being aware of what is taking place in the present can directly enhance wellbeing, while “savouring the moment” can help reaffirm life priorities. Heightened awareness also enhances your self-understanding and allows you to make positive choices based on your own values and motivations.

Some of us may have been able to take notice more during the lockdown. There have been numerous stories about people using the time to reflect on what is important for them, whether that be their career, families or hobbies they want to pursue.

There are ways to continue enjoying the moment and the environment around you. This can be as simple as getting a plant for your workspace to spending time clearing clutter from one room of your home. When on a walk or commute to work, instead of listening to music you can notice the environment around you and enjoy whatever is there.

Even taking an occasional moment to pause during the day, be silent and reflect on your experiences is a very powerful thing. It may help you notice what you are feeling and why; it can be calming as you focus on your breathing; and it can make your future actions more thoughtful and impactful.

Taking notice will form part of the conversation in the wellbeing discussions that our teams regularly hold. We’ll also continue to support employees through our recognition and rewards scheme, award presentation day and badges on our digital platform Mo:dus.