Not Getting Enough Sleep
Sleep is for the week…the week after (insert pressing item here), is an old cliche, but an unhealthy one. Tempting though it might be to squeak by on just a few hours of sleep or pull an all-nighter, not getting your rest can leave you feeling wiped out and leave your body more susceptible to infections like the cold and flu.
Getting adequate sleep (adults should be getting seven to nine hours of sleep per night) not only can leave you feeling refreshed and rested, but it also gives your body a chance to heal itself and prepare to fight off infections. Lack of sleep increases your risk for a number of disorders, including depression, diabetes and obesity.
Recognizing Office Etiquette (Or Lack Thereof)
Many of our offices are supplied with a plethora of communal dishes, silverware, mugs and other items to facilitate our daily lunches. These convenience items are also breeding grounds for illnesses, from colds to flu viruses and others, especially when not washed properly. If you use office dining ware, be sure to wash it thoroughly before you use it, even if you think it has already been cleaned. People may give a mug a quick rinse when in a hurry to get to a client meeting, or you may pick up a plate last used by your coworker, who is notorious for doing a terrible job washing dishes.
Even if it’s something as innocent as missing a spot on the rim of a glass while washing, your coworker (or you, if you’re the guilty party) exposes the office to germs he or she may carry. Your best bet to avoid joining in the office germ pool is to pre-wash any dishes you plan to use -- or bring your own with you to work.