Work life balance sounds like a complicated concept but it really is not. Outlined in this article are simple and effective ways that you can use to keep your work-life in balance with the rest of your existence.
Some people like working long hours. However, most of us do not aspire to this. Here are tips on how to give your personal wellbeing a boost along with your career.
Define your balance
There is no definitive formula to obtain a work-life balance. It is not a one size fits all. What works for one person may not necessarily work for another. People have different priorities and responsibilities. The challenge to get a work-life balance is ever changing and adaptive. Priorities change. However, the ultimate goal remains the same, that is, good personal health and well-being.
Always busy
It seems that we love being busy. Being busy has become synonymous with success. How many times do we hear people boast about their long workday or about how they can get by on just four hours sleep? Unfortunately, this attitude belittles the importance of leisure time. Time spent at work does not automatically equate with productivity.
Leave work on time
Leaving work on time should be the norm. Enter your workplace in the morning with the mind-set that you will leave on time. If you make it a priority and schedule your day right, finishing work on time is a reasonable goal.
Switch off
Put the smartphone down or at least put it on silent from time to time. Take time to disconnect. Answering emails outside work hours creates a vicious cycle where people will expect you to respond to emails at all hours. If you cannot miss a particularly urgent email, perhaps you can set up your email account to filter and forward just priority emails. If you have to bring work home with you, confine it to a certain area of your home and be able to close the door on it.
Lunch break
Make time to take your full lunch break. Use it as an excuse to walk away from your desk. Take a brisk walk. Lunch breaks are an important way to mentally refocus and head back to work feeling re-energised.
Say no
When you are trying to impress at work, it can be hard to say no to requests. Next time, when you are asked to do something extra, don’t answer straight away. Say you will get back to the person asking, then use that time to think clearly about whether to say yes or no. Set firm boundaries around when you are available and not available. Doing so will help you relax.
Flexible work space
If possible, negotiate with your employer for flexible working conditions. Submit a business proposal to your employer, setting out how flexible working can operate to the benefit of all concerned.
Exercise
The many benefits of exercise are well publicised. Regular physical activity can help you switch off from work issues. Where possible, create an exercise plan and stick to it. It is easy to cancel the gym session or swim because a client wants something done yesterday.
Schedule
We book the dentist and doctor far in advance all the time. Why shouldn’t loved ones deserve the same level of commitment? Things such as exercise, date nights and family events can quickly fall by the wayside if they are not purposefully scheduled. And, plan at least one enjoyable activity for during the week.
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