Learning at work is something we do naturally. Whether that is learning a new process, new software, or just learning patience. It’s an important thing to be able to develop in an ever-changing world. However, we often don’t realise that what we do outside of work impacts us inside!
Learning a skill, like photography, can be very useful in your career. As can learning how to take care of your health problems by being active.
We spoke to one of our West Sussex IDVA team members about how learning to listen to your own body helped.
I suffer from fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis. The medications I take for them, and my declining physical activity, meant I had put on weight. This ultimately led to a gastric bypass. The operation took place in 2023 and I recovered, I decided that I needed to learn how to get fit!
I joined a health club close to work to make sure I went on my way home, no excuse to not go back out even when it’s cold and raining! It has a top-class gym, swimming pool, and many classes. I started gently with swimming. Because, before my health and weight issues I was always very competent swimming.
It was hell
I realised I needed to learn the correct ways to get fit that considered my chronic pain condition. I started gym with a proper induction and a lovely physical trainer called Jack. We talked, we analysed fitness by machine and then it began.
I have now been attending the health club for over two months. I have learnt to listen to my body. This means doing things like upping weights when they get easy and put them back again if too much. I aim for two sessions at least a week, mostly gym. But I throw in a swim as well, some days both.
All my negative stats have gone down and my muscle mass is up. After losing weight from my surgery, which had slowed, I have lost another 7lb.
My fitness is very good and I have learnt to love exercise. I know that sounds weird! After exercising, I treat myself to a jacuzzi or the steam room and feel like I pamper myself for my hard work.
Finally, at almost 54 years old AND 7.5 stones down I have ‘LEARNT’!
Learning at work can sometimes mean learning FOR work. Because if we’re not feeling our best, we’re not doing our best!
Thank you so much for the inspiring story!
