Having A Good Work - Life Balance

In today's modern and fast paced world, it can be rather challenging to say the least to maintain a healthy work - life balance that suits your own individual lifestyle and that takes into consideration those around you. However, it is essential for your overall well being and success and to keep yourself motivated.

You must properly prioritise your time. Making a list of your main priorities is an effective way to see how to schedule your time accordingly. Focus on completing your essential tasks first and try to avoid getting side tracked by less important events. The more efficient you are in organising your working priorities will leave you more time for your home life and your own leisure pursuits.

Learning to say no can be difficult, but to stop over committing yourself to both jobs and to people, you must begin by prioritising yourself above others. The next time someone asks a favour of you, to help them with their work or to take on a new task, you must ask yourself if you really want to do it and would it fit into your schedule. If the answer is yes then go ahead but if you are hesitant then say a firm but polite no. This may be especially difficult if you are usually a person who agrees to do anything but once you have said no once, it can be quite liberating and you will be inclined to say it again and as often as you wish. People will begin to see you as a person who is no longer a pushover but one that is comfortable enough to say enough is enough.

Set clear boundaries between your work and personal life. This could be something as simple as not checking work emails or taking work related phone calls outside of your working hours. Keep your days off as having time to yourself and not for catching up on work that could have been done during work hours.Schedule time for activities that enhance your well being such as a hobby or spending time with friends and family. This will also help to keep the dreaded feeling of burnout firmly at the door.

Always maintain a healthy level of personal self care and keep your mental and physical health a priority, as if not, it can easily become compromised and send you on a downward spiral. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet and incorporate some exercise into your routines whether it's a strict gym session, gardening or even taking your dog for a walk. It is about what works best for you and what you enjoy doing.

Finally, if you feel that work is taking up too much of your time and you are finding it increasingly difficult to maintain a good balance, then maybe it is time to re-evaluate your work. Working too much can cause unnecessary stress so consider if now could be the ideal time for a change - on your terms. Talk to your manager or HR department about your level of responsibility and how it is impacting upon you and your life as there may be several options open to you that would make you much happier such as flexible or reduced hours or even remote working.