Brain on Overload? Head Smart vs. Heart Smart

by Communication Coordinator

Submitted by Barbara Collins, Big Bend Community College

My brain is certainly on overload and some of you might be feeling the same way. I thought I would take a short break and share my recent thoughts. The national elections are now over, social distancing continues, and many of our colleagues still work from remote locations. My calendar is full of meetings and trainings via Zoom and other platforms. As I add new projects to my responsibilities, I must also learn to use the tools needed to complete some of these projects. Just since December, I have added SLACK, MS Teams, Google Drive, and we launched our new BBCC website. Of course, there is usually need for yet another password. Just recently, I had some security issues with my personal computer that required a reinstall of the anti-virus and several updates. When this happens, I usually change all my personal passwords too.

Change forces us to learn and the result is being head smart. I remember years ago a senior member of the community once said that our brain is like a computer, and when we store too much in it, we need to purge the files, and get rid of the junk. I share this story because it reminded me to rethink about my own personal wellness and being heart smart. As I find the time, I am constantly purging files and go stir crazy listening to my own voice. Sitting at a computer for an 8-hour day at home does not feel the same as when I was physically in my working environment with all the tools and files I needed and engaging in conversation with my colleagues.

I shared last year that February is National Heart Month so here are some things I recently added to my regular routine.

  1. I have put two daily reminders in my calendar for a 7-minute workout. This might seem like something small, but it forces me to get out of my chair, minimize my desktop, log in to my personal computer and focus on health wellness. When the weather gets better, I will use the full 15 minutes to get outside and walk around the block. Not only does this help clear my head, it is also a great warm-up.
  2. Outside of the work environment, I adopted a family in November who feel very isolated during this pandemic time. Each month I find specific items and deliver a theme basket that will bring them joy. I also send notes of encouragement to others via US mail, there is just something special about getting a letter from in the mail knowing someone cares.
  3. I find my voice getting weaker as we continue to work in isolation. I love to read or listen to music for enjoyment. I have made a monthly commitment to search out fact based news and publications that will challenge me in the area of learning. When no one is around, I find myself reading or singing aloud. Not only does this help exercise the vocal cords, it will spark conversations when we can gather as a community again.

Perhaps you have something to share, too! Email communicationcoordinator@sttacc.net to submit a blog post!