Mastering the Work/Life Balance
ByBy Ann Yaggie, Certified Coach & Executive Consultant
I know that this may not be exactly what you want to hear, but all that work/life balance comes down to is CHOICE! How are you prioritizing your life? There will always be pressure to do more at home, and work, and with friends, and, and, and… regardless of the state of the economy or the latest familial meltdown.
“Work” is often defined as your career and ambition, while your “life” refers to a more complex arena involving health, pleasure, leisure, family, spirituality, and more. No matter how you personally divvy up your energy, attention, and time among these different pieces of your life, it’s essential to acknowledge that a) each person’s balance is unique to them, and b) the way you prioritize your work/life balance is your active choice.
That sense of imbalance in your life often results in unnecessary stress. It’s not always easy to identify the decisions you make concerning your work/life balance, but taking a moment to assess your priorities can completely transform your life.
A poor work/life balance can result in fatigue, lost time with friends and loved ones, and increased/unrealistic expectations. A poor work/life balance is an indicator that you are not actively choosing where and how you are spending your time.
How Can You Take Control?
- Leave work at work: Make a conscious decision to separate work from the rest of your time.
- Say “no”: Quit doing the things you only do out of guilt or false obligation
- Track your time: Keep a log of personal vs. work time for a week. Review this list and eliminate the activities that are non-essential or unsatisfying.
- Schedule downtime like you would a meeting: This can be time with family and friends or just and afternoon to recharge.
- Never skimp on exercising: What’s more important, that you maintain your health or run that last errand?
Interested in learning what your own life balance looks like? Click here to complete a personal assessment wheel.
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