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8 work (and life) lessons I’ve learned from my dog

Writer's picture: Louise NewtonLouise Newton

Updated: 4 days ago

Working from home, I spend a lot of time with my dog, Grace. She’s great – cute, energetic, a bit needy and sometimes demanding. Watching her, she’s been a surprising source of inspiration on how to be present and enjoy life more - and how to be more confident. So here are some of the lessons I’ve learned from my dog.


Here’s what she’s shown me:


1. Be present and enjoy the here and now

The past has gone and we can’t change it. We can learn from it but there’s no point hanging on to it, wishing things had been different. The here and now is what matters.


2. Enjoy the simple, fun things

Find pleasure in simple things. Take a moment to smile at a kitten video, message a friend or just relax with a cup of coffee and enjoy the moment, feeling fully present).


3. Be excited at what’s to come

Know what makes you happy and make time to do it. It doesn’t have to be running after a stick or jumping in mud, but book things in to look forward to.

Dogs splashing through water

4. Know your routine

Freedom is great. It’s liberating. But having a routine can be liberating too and it’s a sure-fire way to get your basic needs met. It also gives you things to look forward to.


5. A task done well = a reward

Give yourself a pat on the back when you’ve done something well or met a deadline. Working at home, it’s hard to get feedback or acknowledgement so learn to be your own coach and hand out the treats.


7. Take a break when you need one

Grace lies down when she’s tired. Wherever that may be. We all need to recharge our batteries and, personally, I do my best work in short, concentrated chunks of time. Sitting at a desk for 10 hours is actually counter-productive, it’s far better to have mini breaks and wander about to re-set your focus.


8. Stretch

Sitting at a desk in your home office (or at your dining table) isn’t great for your posture so, like Grace, stretch each time you get up. Maybe give yourself a good shake too.


9. Don’t let the kitten take your bed

OK, so this last one isn’t quite so pertinent but the point is, sometimes you need to stand your ground and let people know there are boundaries.


What have you learned from your pets that could help you in your personal or professional life? If you'd like to look at how to be more present and learn some simple strategies, why not book a free intro call with me and see where some Career Therapy can take you?


Click on 'Book a call' on the website for a free intro call or email me: louise@careertherapy.co.uk

 

Why not follow me for more confidence boosting tips, tool and talks:

LinkedIn Louise Newton

 

And check out my blog on why Mindfulness isn't just for hippies.


There is also this article I enjoyed on how you and your dog can learn to relax together...

Header photo by Sharon McCutcheon on Unsplash Photo by Matt Jones on Unsplash


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