The Challenge of Staying Connected

In today’s world, technology surrounds us—whether we like it or not. As an HR manager and a busy mom living in Riverton, Utah, I’ve felt this more than ever. Our phones, laptops, and tablets keep us connected to work, family, friends, and endless streams of information. But that constant connection can quickly turn into overwhelm.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of checking emails late into the evening or scrolling social media mindlessly after a long day. While technology offers amazing convenience, it can also blur the lines between work and personal life, leaving us feeling drained and distracted. Over time, this digital overload can affect our mental health, relationships, and overall well-being.

I’ve learned that unplugging after work isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. It’s about reclaiming space to recharge, be present with loved ones, and find peace away from screens. If you’re like me and want to find balance in a digital world, here are some practical tips that have helped me unplug and enjoy life offline.

Set Clear Boundaries Around Work

One of the hardest things to do is separate work time from personal time, especially when so much happens online. Early in my career, I struggled with checking emails after hours or feeling pressured to respond immediately. Over time, I realized that without boundaries, work spills into every corner of life.

Now, I set clear limits for myself. I turn off work notifications on my phone after a certain hour and avoid opening work apps in the evening. I also communicate these boundaries with my team, so they know when I’m available and when I’m not.

Creating a routine helps, too. For example, I try to finish work-related tasks by 6 PM and then officially “sign off.” Giving yourself permission to step away without guilt is key. Your brain and body need that downtime to reset.

Create a Technology-Free Zone at Home

At home, I’ve found it helpful to designate certain areas or times as technology-free zones. For example, the dining table is a no-phone zone during meals. This simple rule has transformed family dinners into meaningful conversations and laughter rather than distracted silence.

I also encourage unplugged time before bed. Screens emit blue light that can interfere with sleep, so putting devices away at least an hour before bedtime helps me fall asleep faster and wake up feeling refreshed.

You might try reading a book, journaling, or practicing a calming hobby like pottery (which I absolutely love!) as a way to wind down. These offline activities can be incredibly grounding after a day full of digital input.

Schedule “Unplugged” Activities

One way to break the screen habit is by intentionally scheduling activities that don’t involve technology. For me, hiking is a perfect escape. Living near beautiful trails in Utah, I make it a point to get outside regularly and leave my phone behind or in airplane mode.

Whether it’s a walk in the park, gardening, cooking a new recipe, or doing pottery, these activities help me reconnect with myself and my environment. They also give my brain a much-needed break from constant notifications and digital noise.

Try blocking out specific times in your week for unplugged activities and treat them as non-negotiable appointments. Over time, this will help build a healthier relationship with technology.

Practice Mindfulness and Presence

Unplugging isn’t just about turning off devices—it’s about being fully present in the moment. When I’m with my family, I try to put my phone away and focus on the here and now. It’s amazing how much richer conversations become when everyone’s attention is undivided.

Mindfulness practices like deep breathing, meditation, or simply noticing your surroundings can also help you stay grounded. Even five minutes of mindful breathing after work can reduce stress and reset your mind.

The more we practice presence, the less we feel the need to check our devices constantly for distraction or validation. It’s about finding calm in a busy world.

Set Realistic Goals for Digital Use

Unplugging doesn’t mean going cold turkey or avoiding technology altogether. After all, many of us rely on digital tools for work, communication, and even relaxation. The goal is to find balance and use technology intentionally.

I’ve found it helpful to set realistic goals, like limiting social media use to 30 minutes a day or turning off screens during family time. There are even apps that track your screen time and remind you when you’ve hit your limit.

Remember, the goal isn’t perfection but progress. Celebrate small wins when you resist the urge to scroll endlessly or when you successfully enjoy a technology-free evening.

Lead by Example at Work and Home

As an HR manager, I believe it’s important to model healthy digital habits at work, too. Encouraging colleagues and employees to unplug after hours helps create a culture that respects boundaries and supports well-being.

At home, I try to set the same example for my family. It’s easier for kids to develop healthy habits around screen time when they see their parents doing the same.

Final Thoughts: Unplug to Reconnect

In our digital world, it’s easy to feel pulled in a hundred directions. But unplugging after work isn’t about rejecting technology—it’s about reclaiming your time, your energy, and your peace. By setting boundaries, creating tech-free zones, scheduling unplugged activities, and practicing presence, we can find balance and enjoy deeper connections both at work and at home.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by screens, I encourage you to try just one of these tips this week. Notice how it feels to step back, breathe, and be fully present. You might be surprised at how much more calm, focused, and connected you feel.

After all, life happens beyond the screen—and it’s waiting for you.

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Change Is the Only Constant

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my years as an HR manager, it’s that change is inevitable. Whether it’s a company restructuring, shifting market demands, or unexpected events like a pandemic, change can stir up uncertainty and anxiety in the workplace. Employees may feel unsettled, stressed, or unsure about what the future holds. As HR professionals, we’re in a unique position to help guide teams through these times—not just by managing logistics, but by supporting people emotionally and practically.

Change isn’t easy for anyone. Even when it promises growth or new opportunities, it can disrupt routines and create fear of the unknown. I’ve been through many organizational shifts myself, both as a manager and as an employee, and I know how critical it is to handle these transitions with care. Here’s what I’ve learned about supporting employees through change—and how intentional leadership can make all the difference.

Listen First: Understanding Employee Concerns

The first step in navigating change is listening. When changes are announced, employees often have a flood of questions and worries. Instead of rushing to offer solutions or jump into action, it’s important to create space for people to share what they’re feeling and thinking.

I make it a priority to hold open forums, small group meetings, or one-on-one conversations during times of transition. This gives employees a safe place to express their concerns and ask questions. Listening shows that we value their voices and understand that change impacts them personally, not just professionally.

When employees feel heard, they are more likely to trust leadership and stay engaged, even if the news isn’t what they hoped for. Sometimes just knowing someone is paying attention can ease anxiety.

Communicate Clearly and Often

Clear communication is the backbone of navigating change effectively. People crave transparency, especially when uncertainty is high. I’ve seen how a lack of information—or worse, conflicting messages—can fuel rumors, distrust, and resistance.

As HR professionals, we need to be honest about what is known and what isn’t. It’s okay to admit when answers aren’t available yet, as long as we commit to keeping people informed as things develop. Consistent updates help employees feel included and prepared rather than blindsided.

I also strive to tailor communication to different groups within the company. For example, frontline employees might need a different level of detail or a different format than executives or remote workers. Understanding the audience ensures that messages are received clearly and empathetically.

Offer Support and Resources

Change can take a toll on mental and emotional health. That’s why providing support is critical. In my workplace, we’ve enhanced access to employee assistance programs, counseling services, and wellness resources during challenging times.

Sometimes, it’s as simple as encouraging managers to check in regularly with their teams and be alert for signs of burnout or stress. HR can also organize workshops or training on resilience, coping skills, and adapting to change.

Flexibility is another key support. Allowing employees to adjust work hours, take time off when needed, or work remotely can make a big difference in how they manage stress and maintain productivity.

Empower Employees to Be Part of the Solution

Change feels less daunting when employees have a role in shaping it. Whenever possible, I involve staff in planning and decision-making processes. This might mean forming committees, gathering feedback through surveys, or brainstorming sessions.

When employees contribute ideas and help create new workflows or policies, they develop a sense of ownership and control. It also helps leadership identify potential problems early and create solutions that work in real life, not just on paper.

Empowering employees doesn’t eliminate all challenges, but it builds a stronger, more adaptable culture.

Lead with Empathy and Positivity

Empathy is the foundation of effective HR leadership during change. I remind myself every day that behind every employee is a person juggling many responsibilities—family, health, finances—and that change can affect all those areas.

Simple acts of kindness and understanding go a long way. Whether it’s acknowledging someone’s hard work, offering flexibility during tough times, or simply checking in with a genuine “How are you doing?” the human touch matters.

At the same time, I try to maintain a hopeful outlook and help employees see the potential benefits of change. Change often opens doors for growth, innovation, and new opportunities. Encouraging people to focus on what they can control and what’s possible helps build resilience.

Celebrate Small Wins

Change can be a long journey, and it’s important to recognize progress along the way. Celebrating small wins—whether it’s a successful project, a team collaboration, or simply adapting to a new routine—boosts morale and motivation.

I like to encourage managers to highlight these moments publicly and privately. Positive reinforcement reminds employees that their efforts matter and that the organization values their adaptability and commitment.

Wrapping Up: Supporting People Through Change

Supporting employees through uncertain times isn’t about having all the answers or making change painless—it’s about being present, listening, communicating, and leading with heart. Change will always come, but how we navigate it can transform workplaces from places of fear and resistance to communities of growth and trust.

If you’re an HR professional facing change in your organization, remember: Your role is vital. You are the bridge between leadership and employees, and your compassion and clarity can guide everyone through the storm.

And to anyone experiencing change in their own career or life, take a deep breath. Reach out for support. Lean into the uncertainty with curiosity rather than fear. Like shaping clay on a wheel, sometimes we need to center ourselves, apply gentle pressure, and be patient as we form something new and stronger.

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Why I Volunteer—and Why It Matters

As a Human Resources Manager, wife, mother, and someone constantly balancing work and family life, time is a precious resource. So people sometimes ask me, “How do you find time to volunteer?” My answer is always the same: I don’t find time—I make time. Because for me, giving back to others isn’t just something I do to check a box or feel good for a moment. It’s become part of who I am, and it’s changed my life for the better—both personally and professionally.

Volunteering has taught me so much about leadership, connection, and the simple joy of being useful. It’s one of the most rewarding habits I’ve built into my life, and I believe it’s something more professionals should explore—not just because the world needs more helpers, but because we become better people, parents, coworkers, and leaders through the act of service.

Small Acts, Big Impact

You don’t have to do something grand to make a difference. In fact, some of the most meaningful volunteer work I’ve done involved small, everyday efforts. Whether it’s helping sort food at a local pantry, mentoring young women entering the workforce, or just being present for community events, those moments add up.

There’s something powerful about stepping outside of your own routine to help someone else. When I’m volunteering, I’m not focused on emails, deadlines, or performance reviews. I’m focused on people. I’m reminded of how much we all need each other, and how much we’re capable of giving—regardless of how busy we are.

One of my favorite volunteer experiences was working with a local group that provides job coaching for women re-entering the workforce. As an HR professional, it felt like the perfect intersection of my skills and passion. But what I didn’t expect was how much I would learn from those women—their resilience, hope, and determination were truly inspiring. I walked away from that experience more grateful and motivated than ever.

Bringing Volunteer Lessons Into the Workplace

It might surprise you, but volunteering has actually made me a better HR leader. I’ve learned to communicate more clearly, to lead with more empathy, and to appreciate the strengths people bring to the table—even if their resumes don’t say it all.

Volunteering has taught me patience and the value of listening, two skills that translate beautifully into managing people. It’s helped me see individuals more fully, beyond job titles and performance metrics. When I bring that mindset into the office, it changes how I approach team dynamics, conflict resolution, and employee engagement.

I’ve also encouraged my coworkers to get involved in causes that matter to them. We’ve organized group volunteering days, community clean-ups, and even donation drives. These efforts build more than good public relations—they build team unity and purpose. When people work together outside of their usual roles, something shifts. They bond in a different way. And when they return to the office, they often bring that positive energy with them.

The Fulfillment Factor

Volunteering fills a space in my heart that nothing else quite can. It brings a deep sense of purpose that goes beyond professional success or personal goals. There’s a unique kind of joy that comes from knowing you made someone’s day a little better, or helped ease a burden they were carrying.

It’s easy to get caught up in the stress and speed of modern life. We chase deadlines, juggle family commitments, and sometimes forget to look beyond our own little worlds. Volunteering pulls us out of that tunnel. It widens our perspective and brings our values into sharper focus.

I’ve found that after a day spent volunteering—whether that’s outdoors, at a shelter, or helping with a fundraiser—I feel lighter. More centered. More in tune with what really matters. That clarity helps me be a better version of myself in every area of life, from parenting to professional leadership.

You Don’t Need to Be Perfect—Just Present

One of the biggest myths about volunteering is that you need to have a certain set of skills, or a lot of extra time, or some kind of saint-like patience. That’s not true at all. You just need to show up.

People don’t need you to be perfect—they need you to care. They need you to listen, to offer a hand, to say “I’m here to help.” Some of the most impactful moments I’ve witnessed during volunteer work didn’t involve any big, dramatic gestures. They involved kindness. Encouragement. Showing up consistently.

If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to start giving back, I’d encourage you to begin small. Find a cause you care about and take that first step. Maybe it’s serving food once a month at a shelter, or helping with your child’s school fundraiser, or writing cards to isolated seniors. Every act counts.

Final Thoughts: Building a Life That Matters

For me, volunteering isn’t a chore or an extra item on the to-do list. It’s part of the life I want to build—a life of compassion, connection, and impact. It reminds me that no matter what title I hold at work, my most meaningful role is simply being a good human.

So yes, I’m busy. But I will always make time for giving back. Because in the end, it’s not just about what we achieve—it’s about how we show up for others. That’s the true art of giving back.

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Finding Peace Outside the Office

As someone who spends most of her weekdays navigating the fast-paced world of human resources, I know firsthand how draining office life can be. The emails, the meetings, the constant multitasking—it all adds up. And while I love my work, there are times when I feel completely overwhelmed. That’s when I lace up my hiking boots, head to the nearest trailhead, and reconnect with something that brings me back to center: nature.

Hiking has become more than just a hobby for me. It’s a vital part of my mental health routine. Over the years, I’ve learned that spending time outdoors isn’t just good for the body—it’s essential for the mind, especially for professionals juggling busy schedules and demanding careers. If you’ve ever felt burned out, anxious, or just plain stuck, I encourage you to consider the trail as your next form of therapy.

Why Hiking Works for the Mind

There’s something incredibly healing about being surrounded by trees, mountains, and open skies. When I’m hiking, my thoughts start to quiet. My breathing slows. My shoulders relax. The stress that felt so heavy in the office suddenly feels lighter with each step.

Science backs this up. Studies have shown that spending time in nature reduces levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), improves focus, and even boosts mood. Walking through natural settings has been linked to decreased anxiety and depression. And here’s the best part—it doesn’t take a ten-mile trek to feel the benefits. Even a short hike can reset your mindset and lift your spirits.

For me, hiking is a moving meditation. It’s one of the few times I allow myself to unplug completely. No notifications. No back-to-back Zoom calls. Just the sound of my boots on the dirt and the wind through the leaves. It’s during these quiet hikes that I often come up with my best ideas—or realize that something I’ve been stressing over at work isn’t as urgent as I thought.

Creating Space to Breathe

In HR, we talk a lot about creating work-life balance, but achieving it is another story. That’s why I make time for hiking the same way I make time for a meeting or a deadline. I schedule it. I prioritize it. Because the truth is, we’re better professionals when we take care of ourselves.

Some weekends I’ll take on a longer trail in the Wasatch Mountains, especially when I need a true mental reset. Other times, it’s just a quick walk at a local park near Riverton. Either way, the goal isn’t speed or distance—it’s presence. It’s about stepping away from the noise and giving myself space to breathe and think clearly.

Hiking also gives me something I don’t get enough of during the workweek: solitude. I’m around people all day, and I genuinely enjoy that. But being alone in nature helps me reconnect with myself. I check in with my own thoughts and feelings without distraction. That self-awareness carries over into how I lead and how I show up for others.

Taking Hiking Lessons Back to the Office

One of the most surprising things I’ve noticed is how hiking has actually made me a better leader. When I’m hiking, I practice patience—especially on long, steep climbs. I focus on one step at a time instead of getting overwhelmed by the entire trail. I bring that same mindset back to work when projects feel daunting or when emotions run high in the office.

Hiking also reminds me to slow down. We live in a culture that glorifies busy-ness. But speed doesn’t always equal productivity. Sometimes, stepping back and taking things in from a higher perspective (literally and figuratively) gives me the clarity I need to move forward with intention.

I’ve even started encouraging my team to get outside more. We’ve done walking meetings, group hikes, and wellness challenges focused on movement and mindfulness. The feedback has been incredibly positive. People return from these experiences feeling lighter, more connected, and more energized.

No Experience Required

You don’t have to be an experienced outdoorsperson to get started with hiking. Some of the best mental health hikes I’ve had were short, simple walks on beginner trails. Start with what feels doable. Bring a friend if you’re nervous about going alone. Or, go solo if you’re craving quiet.

You don’t need fancy gear either—just comfortable shoes, a water bottle, and a willingness to disconnect for a little while. Nature doesn’t judge your pace or your stress level. It welcomes you exactly as you are, and that’s part of its magic.

Final Thoughts: One Step at a Time

If you’re a busy professional like me, chances are you’ve put your own mental health on the back burner more than once. I get it. But I’ve also learned that taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Hiking has helped me stay grounded, focused, and emotionally healthy, even during some of the most stressful seasons of my life.

So the next time work feels like too much, or you just need a break from the noise, consider stepping outside. Let the trail be your therapist. Let the trees remind you to stand tall. Let the mountains teach you that every uphill climb is worth it.

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