Over the holidays at the end of last year, members of the Jmac team shared the commitments they planned to make for their mental health in the new year. As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, we checked back in with the team on how those commitments have been going, how they use inspirational quotes and music to stay grounded, and how they plan to continue taking care of their mental health through the rest of 2024 and beyond. We hope these responses inspire you to make your mental health the best it can be!
Audree Hernandez, Account Executive
How are you doing with your commitment for this year? Will you keep the same commitment or is there something new you’d like to commit to for the rest of the year?
Sadly, my coffee intake has been about the same. Pat on the back still because I could definitely have given myself a greater intake level.
As for using all my resources, I’ve been running with that. I’ve attended SO MANY insightful webinars, joined more PRSA leadership roles, and started creating my own group for intermediate level PR professionals. I’d like to keep this commitment running for the rest of the year, but also challenge myself to continuing to step up to more leadership roles in my community.
When stressed or anxious, what is your go-to inspirational quote or song that helps to focus and ground you?
This one’s from my daily affirmation app: “If I waited for the perfect time to start, I would never find the right time. I am starting right here and right now.”
I recently saw JUNGLE at Coachella and I just keep thinking about that giant dance party: Keep Moving.
Casey Burke, Content Writer
How are you doing with your commitment for this year? Will you keep the same commitment or is there something new you’d like to commit to for the rest of the year?
This year I committed to improving my mental health by prioritizing my physical health (sleep, diet, and daily exercise). Overall I’m doing well with this commitment, though I don’t always get to sleep as early or wake up as early as I’d like. Planning to stay committed!
When stressed or anxious, what is your go-to inspirational quote or song that helps to focus and ground you?
Lately instrumental music has been very grounding for me, especially ambient music and jazz (Miles Davis is one of my favorites, and his music spans both of those genres). I work with words all the time, and there’s something really relaxing about getting away from them once in a while.
Gabriela Rudolph, Associate Account Executive
How are you doing with your commitment for this year? Will you keep the same commitment or is there something new you’d like to commit to for the rest of the year?
I feel like I’m doing a good job prioritizing my mental health and making sure I take moments for myself. I plan on continuing to uphold this commitment throughout the rest of the year.
When stressed or anxious, what is your go-to inspirational quote or song that helps to focus and ground you?
“This for everybody going through tough times
Believe me, been there, done that
But every day above ground is a great day, remember that”
– Pitbull, “Time of Our Lives”
John McCartney, Agency Principal
How are you doing with your commitment for this year? Will you keep the same commitment or is there something new you’d like to commit to for the rest of the year?
I’ve really committed to my mental health this year, and it’s been going well. Recently, I started using the “Five Minute Journal,” and it’s been eye-opening. It’s helped me learn and appreciate gratitude, affirmations, and how I want my day to go. Reflecting on my highlights and what I’ve learned each day has made a big difference.
Journaling has become a powerful practice for me, helping cultivate mindfulness and self-awareness. By taking just a few minutes each day to focus on these aspects, I’m setting a positive tone for my day and reinforcing a mindset of appreciation and growth. Recognizing the highlights of my day and what I’ve learned encourages continuous personal development and resilience.
I’m proud of the progress I’ve made and am committed to keeping up with these practices. Small, consistent steps often lead to the most profound changes, and I’m excited to continue on this journey. If I ever need support or want to share more about my experience, I know there are resources available.
When stressed or anxious, what is your go-to inspirational quote or song that helps to focus and ground you?
I don’t have any specific quotes or songs that come to mind to help me focus and ground myself. Instead, I rely on a few key practices. I try to reframe things as much as possible, shifting my perspective to find the positive. I make an effort to be grateful for all the good in my life, appreciating both the small and big moments. Additionally, I go for walks in the afternoon to clear my head and refresh my mind.
Monica Iriarte, Human Resources
How are you doing with your commitment for this year? Will you keep the same commitment or is there something new you’d like to commit to for the rest of the year?
I’m on track this year.
When stressed or anxious, what is your go-to inspirational quote or song that helps to focus and ground you?
I currently use the mantra “I surrender,” and I try to no longer use external sources to self-regulate. Both are very helpful.