In today’s digital ‘always on’ world, working full time generally leaves most people with very limited free time. And when you look at the life of a real estate agent, the emotional load is even greater. The precious time you do have, is usually spent getting in as much quality time as possible with your family and friends, although even this can be interrupted by phone calls and emails. This often means finding the time to exercise or prioritise your health in general seems nearly impossible.

We’ve taken a look at some of the most researched ways proven to make people happy, and how you can apply them to your life as a real estate agent.

1. An apple a day...
We all know that daily exercise and a healthy diet have a positive impact on happiness. But have you ever thought to yourself “I need to start eating better, going to sleep earlier and exercising more” followed by “I’ll start on Monday", only to find a few weeks or even months later you’re yet to make a start?

Most of the time, the hardest part is simply getting started, so it’s best to start small. If you don’t have time for deep meditation sessions, try sitting in a quiet room for five minutes. If you can’t spare an hour for a workout, try a 15 minute one. If thinking of healthy meals to cook each night is too overwhelming, try a food delivery service like My Food Bag.

Coming up with S.M.A.R.T. goals will help keep your health on track. S.M.A.R.T. goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely. For example, instead of saying to yourself “I’m going to start exercising next week” you could say “I’m going to start going for a 15 minute walk every night after dinner”. The goal is to take action.

2. Streamline your technology

Before downloading yet another app or signing up for the latest task manager, ask yourself what the benefit will be. For email, create folders and filters that help you keep important and unimportant items separate, set notifications for unopened priority messages, and unsubscribe from mailing lists that you haven’t used in a while.

3. Switch off
Turning off your devices isn’t only great for boosting productivity, it can also do wonders for your wellbeing in general. But if the idea of turning off your phone sends shivers up your spine, try putting it on silent for an hour a day or pop it on ‘do not disturb’ after a particular time in the evening so you can wind down before going to sleep. Another option could be to turn off notifications so you’re reaching for your devices less.

4. Take time to reflect on your wins
It’s easy to get wrapped up in the day-to-day and focus on the negative. Frustrated by the seller who turned down a reasonable offer? Annoyed by a prospective buyer who never turned up for a viewing? Angry that you lost a listing to a competitor? Make sure you take the time to celebrate winning each listing and closing each sale. Taking time to reflect is a great way to increase long term happiness.

How to boost your wellbeing at work