Finding the right work-life balance is essential when creating a sense of wellness in your daily life. A healthy work-life balance includes managing workplace obligations and stress as well as maintaining healthy relationships at home and with yourself . Workplace obligations are balanced by personal activities that allow for rest, relaxation, and connecting with friends and family.
When our work life and personal life are balanced, we are happier, less stressed, and more fulfilled.
Some of the most common things that disrupt your work due to your personal responsibilities that are at times unavoidable:
- A sick child
- Increased personal responsibilities, such as aging parents, Sick animals, a burst geyser.
- Your own health, colds, flu, mental health issues or for many battling a life-threatening disease.
- Childcare issues, school holidays etc
- Trouble on the home front with your partner, financial strain
- Lack of boundaries between work and life duties
- Lack of Transport.
- Being a single parent
There is also another side to the coin, the disruption of your Personal life due to expectations at work.
- Excessive work hours.
- Limited flexibility in your work schedule.
- Fear of losing your job/Job insecurity.
- Conflicts with bosses or co-workers.
- Taking calls after work hours.
- Lack of boundaries between work and life duties.
- Unrealistic expectations from superiors.
- Long commute times – Having to wake up earlier and leave earlier to avoid traffic leaving less time for yourself and your family.
What you need to learn in order to balance the scales?
Know your values
- Establish what is most important to you, what your passions are,
- How much time you spend on your priorities.
Practice time management
Cut down on things that do not serve you well time wise. Cancel meetings that could be better communicated in an email. Avoid social media and cut you r commute if possible. Prioritise and delegate.
Set boundaries
Set limits on your work time and set aside time for other activities. Switch off the phone, limit your access to work emails or go internet-free for a few hours. Learn how to say ‘no’.
Enjoy your work
While all work can be tedious or stressful at times, if you really hate your job or it’s making life impossible, consider changing jobs or even careers.
Consider your finances
Do you NEED a new car or do you WANT a new car. Asking yourself the question of need or want will help you prioritize your financing positively and help you save money.
Nurture relationships
Prioritise time with your family, friends, neighbours or loved ones.
Focus on your health
Regular exercise is proven to reduce stress, anxiety and depression. Get enough sleep at regular times eat healthy food, drink lots of water and if you need to drink alcohol in moderation. Avoid drugs.
Have down time
Rest periods are just as important to success since they ‘recharge your batteries’. Schedule regular time off for yourself each week to read a book, play sport, spend time in nature or just do nothing. Choose any activity you enjoy.
Building the right balance between work and personal responsibilities may take time to develop as you assess your budget, your time and your values. Somethings are unavoidable and out of your control no matter how much you plan for them and it is important to remain calm and keep open communication with your supervisors and with your families. If you are able to set boundaries and discuss limitations and capabilities on both fronts to create the support you need in both work and home life and still leave some room to be flexible in both Areas you will find yourself in Work/life harmony.