Striking a perfect balance between your home and work life is something one can only dream of. Striking a somewhat shaky, but suitable and satisfying balance? Now, that’s achievable! A set formula for everyone is impossible as responsibilities and priorities can differ greatly from person to person. Not to mention the ever-changing variables in this fast-paced environment we live in. To say that you would or should sacrifice one over the other would be unrealistic. So then, how does one even begin to balance life between the place they call home and the place they spend most of their waking hours at? Here are some tips.
Priorities
Assess and reassess your priorities regularly. In this journey we call life, we only get one chance to live it. Each time you are faced with a choice, ask yourself if this is the way you want and need to spend this moment of time in your life. Constantly ask yourself if you are spending, to the best of your ability, the correct amount of time in each area of your life – at work, with family, with friends and just with yourself.
Keep them separated
Your home is your home and your work is your work. Is this really possible? I don’t think so. But what we can do is to try and minimize the mixing of these two areas of life. For example, if you have to bring work home, then put aside a short, set amount of time after the kids are in bed to do that work. Another example would be the time you spend with your colleagues socially. Try not to have conversations about work when you’re out relaxing.
It’s ok to say “No”
It’s important to remember that it is ok to say “No” to having to do something that may take away your time from something that is more important. Be honest. If you have your child’s soccer game to be at, it is ok to say “No. I’m sorry I can’t help you clean your gutter today, Mother-In-Law”. It’s also ok to explain to your boss that you may have family events that you are committed to. If you are honest and are completing your work efficiently, you’d be surprised to find out how many understanding bosses there are out there.
Allocated Family and Friends Time
Although this may sound calculated and not very spontaneous, a few planned events a week with friends or family will ensure that amount of time you spend with them. These planned events will eventually become so natural that you wouldn’t want to do without them.
Me Time
Make time for yourself. Even if it’s just for 15 minutes a day – reading a book, listening to music, soaking in the bath tub. This “Me Time” is what will destress you and therefore, enable you to be the best person that you can be.
