Here are some ways to help build and maintain relationships both face-to-face and virtually:

• Create ‘coffee machine’ moments – with more of us able to work in a hybrid way, there will be less casual catch ups and friendly chatter. Think about those you aren’t seeing regularly and find opportunities to re-create the casual conversations.
• Challenge or collaborate – think about ways to engage in friendly competition with colleagues. Challenge them to complete the ‘Wordle’ daily or grab a virtual coffee and collaborate on the wordsearch we’ve included. Stimulating and engaging!
• Be grateful and helpful – take time each day to say, “Thank you”. Small, unexpected acts of kindness can really help our virtual relationships. Being kind or paying someone a compliment could make their day, and not only make them smile but we feel good about ourselves too. It promotes the release of Oxytocin – one of our ‘happy hormones’! This is the art of being selflessly selfish!

• Kick start the day – always having breakfast gives you an immediate boost to the start of your day. You could try one of these 3 ideas: Porridge with dried fruits, muesli, fruit and yoghurt or boiled eggs with wholemeal toast
• Skip the snacking – avoid eating too many white or refined carbohydrates (e.g. white bread, biscuits, sugar, cakes) – this can lead to poor blood sugar balance and this actually leaves you feeling drained, tired and reaching for more sugar. Try and graze on energy giving foods such as fruit, nuts, bananas, chopped carrots or cucumber which also count as part of your 5 a day!
• Hydrate and feel great – water is the main source of energy for the body along with food. It’s essential we try and drink 8 cups of water or a healthy juice each day as a minimum