El Kwang of BEAM uncovers the 3R’s of a recovery toolkit for business travel.
Acknowledging the complex emotions tied to the resurgence of business travel, a recent article by Fortune indicates that merely a third of business travellers are enthusiastic about being on the road. Despite the growing acceptance of hybrid work setups in Asia, professionals continue to place considerable value on the interpersonal connections fostered by face-to-face interactions, particularly within the realm of sales appointments and business networking events. This longing for travel, compounded by the persistent strain on airline capacities, has emerged as a formidable mental wellness challenge during business recovery.
In our conversation with Choo Phaik Ai from The School of Positive Psychology, we unearthed an easily implementable burnout recovery toolkit designed specifically for time-constrained business travellers.
Choo illuminated the path to rejuvenation through the holistic approach of the 3 R’s – Recognise, Recharge, and Reset. Highlighting the significance of acknowledging our emotional triggers without instinctively reacting, she underscored the pivotal role of mindfulness in recognising the subtle nuances of our emotional landscape. In her view, allowing room for the coexistence of both positive and negative emotions facilitates a more balanced and authentic perspective, steering clear of the pitfalls of toxic positivity.
Within the realm of recharging, Choo shared the benefits of “energy forecasting” – an invaluable technique for harmonising demanding travel schedules with unpredictable circumstances such as flight cancellations. Encouraging individuals to identify their personal ‘charging stations’ through physical movement or seeking solace in trusted confidants, she emphasised the restorative power of these simple yet profound actions in restoring equilibrium and mental clarity.
As elucidated by Choo, the essence of resetting lies in consciously recognising moments of joy and contentment, harnessing these positive emotional states to construct sustainable habits. By transforming these practices into consistent routines, individuals can cultivate a sense of stability and emotional resilience, fostering a heightened sense of control even amidst the turbulence of a bustling travel schedule.
Moreover, Choo emphasised the critical importance of cultivating a compassionate and nurturing inner dialogue, urging individuals to pivot from self-doubt towards self-encouragement. Rather than succumbing to the burdensome weight of unrealistic expectations such as obligatory gym visits, she advocated for the mindful celebration of small victories, nurturing an unwavering foundation of inner equilibrium and self-compassion.
”“The word ‘should’ is very detrimental because it's not setting us up for success.”
Choo Phaik AiThe School of Positive Psychology.
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