10 STEPS TO ACHIEVING WORK-LIFE BALANCE
Do you ever find yourself overwhelmed and stressed because you just got back home from an 8 to 9 hour strenuous workday and your kids want your attention – one wants help with homework and the other wants to play with you. To top it all, you have a work call to attend from home and also make dinner!
Now, what’s left is little, if at all any time for yourself and your family. That’s why you need balance. You need the perfect work-life balance so that you can actually get to spend more time with who matters the most to you. Here are some tips to help you establish your priorities:
1. Set boundaries at work and stick to them
Sure, technological advances enable the employee to opt for a flexible work environment, but they also mean a menace when it comes to you being accessible 24/7. Sit down with your boss, discuss the expectations and establish boundaries on how often you have to be available outside of work to take calls or emails.
2. Nurture your Family and Relationships
Family time and dinnertime are sacred. Shut off the TV and those pesky mobile gadgets in order to enjoy quality time with your family.
3. Become Organized
You may have heard this before but it’s worth hearing again! If you want to create the balance you want you have to create and stick to a schedule. If you don’t then you will always be chasing the proverbial ball and be under stress all the time. Take technology in your hands and plan your schedule.
4. Stay Disciplined
If you create a schedule and don’t stick to it, that’s bad. Even if you tip the scale from time to time, it’s important to have self-discipline.
5. Have ‘Me’ Time
You don’t want to get cranky. It is better to devote some time exclusively for yourself. Exercise, read books or focus on a hobby you like.
6. Remember That You Are Not Perfect
Nobody is, we all come with our own flaws. So, just don’t always strive to be perfect and cultivate unwanted stress. It will free you up for more important things.
7. Ask For Help
We are happier and productive when we have a strong support system. Vent to your bestie, ask your colleague to help you pick up slack on that overdue project and rely on your family when you need it the most.
8. Go for a Holiday
Plan for a weekend getaway and relieve that stress by spending happy times with your loved ones. Or have a romantic night out with your partner leaving the kids back with a babysitter.
9. Just say No
Saying no can be tough at times. When your schedule is getting hectic, practice saying No, I cannot attend or I am unable to make it tomorrow, can we pick some other day? As busy as you are, give attention to yourself first.
10. Health is Wealth
Being fit and healthy should be your No.1 priority. Eat well; sleep well and exercise well for a healthy lifestyle.
That’s it! Anything can be achieved if you set your mind to it. The ball is in your court and it is up to you to lead a happy and stress-free life!