Read Again: Why You Need to Make Space For Self-Care

You wouldn’t ignore a broken printer or a flickering lightbulb – so why ignore the warning signs in your own body?

You’re the backbone of the practice – the one keeping everything running smoothly, from rotas and records to patient pathways and procurement. But while you’re keeping your team afloat and the clinic functioning, there’s one person you might be forgetting: yourself.

That dull ache in your lower back after a long day. The eye strain that creeps in by mid-afternoon. The fleeting foot pain from pacing between rooms. As a GP practice manager, it’s easy to brush these things off. After all, there’s always a meeting to prep for, a system to troubleshoot, or a patient issue to resolve.

But these little aches are your body’s way of waving a red flag. Left unaddressed, they can lead to more serious problems – muscle strain, chronic fatigue, or even burnout. And when you’re the one others rely on for stability, your health needs to be rock solid.

Your Workspace Matters

You’ve signed off on dozens of health and safety assessments for your staff. But when was the last time you assessed your own setup? Think about your office space. Is your chair giving you the support you need? Is your desk at the right height for typing without strain? Are you working under harsh fluorescent lighting or in a poorly ventilated space that leaves you feeling drained? Even the wrong monitor angle can lead to headaches and tension. Small changes – like a lumbar cushion, monitor riser, or switching to a standing desk for part of the day – can make a big difference to your physical comfort and concentration.

Daily Movement: More Than a Wellness Trend

Being glued to your desk for hours on end is a recipe for stiffness and fatigue. You might be deep in scheduling clinics or sorting payroll, but your body still needs to move. Set hourly reminders to stretch, walk to the reception desk, or even take a few laps around the building. Use part of your lunch break to step outside and get fresh air. Not only does movement help your joints and muscles – it clears your head and improves your focus for the rest of the day.

Little Tools, Big Impact

Those long hours on your feet and at your desk can be rough on your body. Supportive footwear, anti-fatigue mats, or under-desk footrests can prevent unnecessary strain. If your wrists ache, look into ergonomic keyboards or mouse pads. If you’re feeling tight and tense, a heat pack or small massager at your desk can offer quick relief between meetings.

And don’t underestimate the power of hydration and nutrition. Keep a reusable water bottle at your desk and swap out that fourth cup of coffee for herbal tea or a smoothie. Stash some healthy snacks – like almonds or dried fruit – to avoid that energy dip that hits mid-clinic.

You’re used to caring for a team and supporting a patient population – but you’re no good to them if you’re running on empty. Those tiny signs your body is giving you? They matter. Caring for your physical health isn’t a bonus – it’s the foundation of your leadership. The more energy, strength and resilience you have, the better you can guide your practice through challenges, changes and the everyday chaos of primary care. Taking care of your team starts with taking care of yourself. Make your wellbeing part of the daily routine, not an afterthought.