Nicole’s Secrets
Q: How did you get into your current role/industry?
A: It was kind of an interesting route…I first thought I wanted to be a dentist or work in Human Resources, but then I spent a summer working at a camp with kindergarten-aged kids and I fell in love with working with little humans.
I didn’t want 100% of my job to be with kids though, so I landed on working in a school would be a good mix. I also recognized my love and passion for helping people, so school counseling was the best fit 😊.
Q: What’s something you do to help boost your productivity?
A: I take walking breaks with my co-workers.
Getting out of the building and moving around is so important, especially when the stuff we’re dealing with is emotionally heavy.
Being in a school, we also operate on a period schedule. So usually, when the bell rings, if I’m doing paperwork or a project, I’ll use that as my time to take a break and stand in the hallways during passing time and see the kids.
Physically changing my location from time to time is a must to keep feeling mentally fresh.
Q: How do you find work-life balance?
A: Well…I’m working on that one and will constantly be doing so!
It’s such a challenge, but what I try to do is leave physical work at work and not bring anything home with me. I also try to practice mindfulness so I can be aware of when a situation is mentally with me.
My job can leave me painfully aware of some incredibly challenging circumstances my kids are going through, so, although I can physically leave their files at school, the worry/wonder/anxiety about them tends to go with me in my mind.
When that happens, I try to meditate or go for a run to give myself space. Sometimes, for particularly heavy circumstances, I give myself the space to grieve, cry, or get angry. It’s a constant work in progress!
Q: What’s the best piece of professional advice you’ve received so far?
A: You are only one person. I’m the type that wants to take it all on and I really DO love to help. But there is no way I can do the job of multiple people…they have their jobs for a reason!
Q: What’s your favorite software or app that helps with your workflow?
A: The Calm App.
Q: What’s a book or podcast you’d recommend to a colleague?
A: Susan Cain’s Quiet.
Q: What do you like to do in your free time outside of work?
A: I love to be outside walking, running, hiking or just hanging out. I love to hang out with my friends and family as well as travel when I can.
The pandemic also renewed my love of puzzles…so that, plus wine and popcorn is what my raging Friday nights look like now!
🏃🏽♀️Read about how exercise eases depression and anxiety symptoms.
⚡ Get 5 tips for separating work from the rest of your life.
