The changing world around us has an impact on our wellbeing
We live in a world of change often called 'the new normal' and this is stressful.
This change will continue and the effect of this new world will inevitably affect our wellbeing. Stress and depression are now the commonest reasons for workplace absence.
This set the scene for leadership coach Anne-Marie Svendsen-Aylott to talk about wellbeing and how we should all take personal responsibility for our own wellbeing.
Speaking at the London Vet Show she said that, as individuals, we need to know where we want to get to in our lives and what for us, is wellbeing.
We need to know what drives us, what we need to do to recharge our batteries and how to be with the people who have a positive emotional effect upon us. We must start small and develop two key skills, she said.
The first skill is to develop our emotional intelligence, which is so much about intrapersonal skills (self-awareness and self-management) and interpersonal skills (social awareness and relationship management).
The second skill is mindfulness, and Anne-Marie gave us a practical demonstration of mindfulness meditation as well as showing how the way we think and the actions we take can affect our peace and calm.
She explained that we tend to catastrophise (the what if.......? scenario) and ruminate (chewing over worries and problems). Instead, we should replay in our minds positive experiences and find peaceful times in each day to relax.
Her message was that we must take action and responsibility for ourselves in a world full of change.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
