We begin a new year, and with it comes the motivation to "be better", to "do better".  We take what we learn from our previous and apply our own changes in order to improve ourselves.  This is what is important. As unique individuals, "better" isn't the same for everyone, and while there are some universal truths, such as getting enough sleep, eating healthy, reducing stress, and moving your body, there are many diverse thoughts as to how to accomplish those things. 

Covid-19 turned the world on its head.  We're defining new norms and what once made sense, is up for individual assumption and acceptance. Especially throughout the United States.  The Real Estate market had an astronomical increase rate over the last two years with no signs of correction, pet shelters' inventory is at an all-time low (YAY!) and auto-lots are practically begging people to trade-in their vehicles; almost making non-classic cars an appreciating asset.  Analysts are on a non-stop statistical hunt with our consumption and spending. 

What about shopping trends within retail? 

Grocery workers are essential service providers who many may overlook during this pandemic.  They increased their efforts [across the world/nation] while adding in Covid-19 safety precautions of extra cleaning, expanded maintenance and no-contact online programs.

How do you encourage customers to shop, but also get them to do it quickly and efficiently?

Sleep is so important! Although the amount of sleep required varies person to person, lack of sleep is linked to increased stress, burnout and can also cause cardiovascular disease over time. There are only a few (1-3% of the population) that are part of the ‘sleepless elite’: those that only require 5-6 hours and are able to function with continued high performance.

As the second position in M.E.D.S., EXERCISE may seem the most attainable, but can be one of the most difficult to sustain.  Exercise must challenge you in order to make an impact. A workout is just that: WORK. This doesn't have to mean forking over hundreds of dollars for a crazy-intense program. It simply means adding physical activity to your daily/weekly routine that was not previously there.  And, that can be difficult. You must work past your comfort zone, and here is where many of us fall short. Our own Shey P. describes how she still needs that beginning push to get her through her new program:

Meditation and Mental Health

This week, we focus on Meditation; primarily the importance of Mental Health and the paths we can take to keep each of our own healthy and in a ‘good place.’ This can be a challenge especially during time of uncertainty and unexpected changes. With the added stress of COVID-19 (Coronavirus,) our norms are flipped upside down and our daily lives along with them. This type of stress can wreak havoc on your mind. It can also leave even the most level-headed person feeling nervous. And, how about those who already battle with previous/current mental challenges? The constant worry, the anxiety of the unknown and the angst we all feel of just wanting this to be over can be overwhelming.

GETTING YOURSELF TO A GOOD PLACE

SAS Retail Services understands the current climate’s stress levels and how we are ALL effected by it. No matter your status in life, stress and uncertainty affects us all, and we all have different ways of dealing with it. To continue the focus on our Team Members’ well-being and everyone we interact with, we are highlighting September as Self-Care Awareness Month. We want to take this time and provide resources, experiences and suggestions people can incorporate into their daily lives, should they choose. We want us all to be our best selves and to maintain a healthy and progressive lifestyle.

Focus on your health and positive life situations, and you can handle any challenge that comes your way.

Change is difficult; even more so when it is unexpected and continues to open new hurdles as each day passes. Today’s current social and economic climate creates a constant unrest with many uncertainties.