As a former college athlete who took a dive into the real world soon after graduation, my days of classes, lifting, practice and studying were replaced with a 9-5 job as an Account Exec in the advertising field - working with clients, designers and everything in between. Talk about a wake-up call! During my transition into the corporate world, I brought my work ethic and ability to work with different walks of life with me - but soon realized I was desperately missing the need for that physical outlet and team-like environment that sports gave me.

I soon joined a soccer league with a few friends at work and instantly gained a better connection, appreciation and understanding with the colleagues I played with. I respected their play, their attitude and it was interesting working with colleagues on a different level other than at the office.

Personally…I felt more confident at the office and not to mention the stress reliever that physical activity provides in itself. When out on the field - worries such as deadlines, bills, etc. are nonexistent - for those 80 minutes thoughts are consumed with working together to win and leaving your best on the field.

Not only did I satisfy my need for the team-like atmosphere by signing up for a sports league with co-workers- but that team building feeling was enhanced at the office. Below is an article from ABC news that talks about how playing sports can help bring balance to a stressful work life.

http://abcnews.go.com/Business/TakeControlOfYourLife/story?id=1503398

And hey, if you are not into sports - get a friend to be a gym buddy - sign up for yoga, pilates, spinning, kickboxing, etc. because you know what they say - “Those that play together, stay together.”