Work-life balance. We all aim for it. We all want to work hard but still get enough time for our hobbies and interests, and most importantly, our personal relationships. But work-life balance can feel like an impossible dream for most of us.
Well, not really. Actually, it may be easier than you think to find work-life balance by following these simple steps:
Figure out what it is that keeps you inspired.
It’s hard to get up in the morning knowing that you are going through another difficult and stressful day. But if you have something positive – a source of inspiration – to look forward to at the end of the day or at the end of the week, you wake up every day with zeal and enthusiasm. You wake up feeling determined and motivated to get all your tasks done. Because when you are motivated, you release a lot of energy. When you arrive home, whilst you may feel tired, you won’t feel drained. You still feel thankful that another day has gone.
Make a “today” list.
Having a to-do list is a great strategy to liberate your mind from thinking too much and having to remember it all. However, most of us are fond of making a long “to-do” list, which consists of their present and future plans. Creating a long list is not really a good idea. It can only make you feel stressed and overwhelmed. Another thing, you may also run the risk of having to lose sight of the few things that are more important. So come up with your daily list. Before you start your day, come up with a list of at least three things that you want to get done. Accomplishing them gives you more satisfaction than focusing on a lot of tasks that can be done on other days.
Just walk out the door.
Are you one of the many workers who used to go home late because they still have to finish stuff in the office? Do you hate doing overtime work but feel obligated too? Once the bell rings, signalling you to go home, just walk out the door and leave. You don’t have to be an ideal employee who has to wait for others to go before you leave. The company will not fall into pieces if you delay reading one email until the next day, or if you don’t clean your desk before you go. Don’t fret about unfinished tasks. You will be back tomorrow, anyway.
Focus when at work.
Many people think that the more hours they spend working, the more productive and successful they become. Unfortunately, it isn’t the case. Did you know that when you are in a state of ‘flow’, you actually become up to 10 times more productive than when you are distracted? Starting today, try to rearrange your schedule so you can work in a ‘flow’. It is a wonderful state wherein you are feeling totally immersed in the task at hand – as if nothing’s ever existed apart from you and what you are doing. Take a break when you need it. Don’t force yourself to work when you can’t. Make sure that no matter how busy you are, you still give enough time to recharge your batteries. Remember, you are not a robot. You do need time to rest as well.
Be fully present when spending ‘quality time’.
Whether you’re spending quality time with yourself or with your friends and family, make sure you are being mindful. Otherwise, it will not make a difference. For example, if you’re having a dinner with your family and all you do is eat and check emails, then you are not observing a good life-work balance. Technically, you are still working. Be more physically and emotionally present when with your loved ones. You can only experience real fun and joy when you are immersed in the present moment.
Engage in a creative task.
Many jobs today require analytical thinking more than creativity. But no matter what your job is, you should keep going after creative pursuits. Whether it’s writing, sketching, baking or cooking – whatever it is that keeps your creative juices flowing – do it. Creative thinking goes a long way in keeping your stress levels low. At the same time, it boosts your mental health too.
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