Work Life Balance (also called work-life integration) has emerged in recent years as an important issue for both employees and companies alike.
The reality is that work is no longer a check-in-check-out transactional experience anymore. Many employees in the 21st century are no longer 9-5 employees. We are now almost on call and can work from anywhere, anytime, on many devices. Hence the need for Work-Life balance.
But first, here are two common myths of Work-Life balance: Now that we understand in reality what Work-Life Balance is NOT, why then is it important?
It’s obvious what work-life balance looks like- Wrong! Work-life balance almost always means something different to every individual. Many times, we are so focused on someone else's idea of a work-life balance. For example, a balanced life for a doctor running his/her private practice is bound to be different from that of a beauty salon owner because there are too many variables and personal preferences at play. Rather than trying to achieve someone else's version of balance, you're better off trying to figure out what balance looks like in your own life.
Work-Life Balance is about having equal hours for work and play- Another way to know that you’re doing work-life balance the wrong way is when you feel there are exact moments when you were supposed to work and exact moments when you aren’t supposed to work. Instead of placing our rest and work on an imaginary scale, we should ask ourselves: How can we integrate our lives and our work instead of pitting them at against each other?
Now that we understand in reality what Work-Life Balance is NOT, why then is it important?
1. Burn out is real
When we neglect taking time out to focus on the other areas of our lives we ultimately become less productive, less capable of managing tasks efficiently, less sociable, etc. Constant focus on your work, without time for relaxing your mind and pursuing the other enjoyable aspects of your life, can lead to increased levels of stress and burnout.
2. There is a need for you to recharge
When you take time out to pursue other aspects of life, such as hobbies, time with family, road trips, etc, you’re providing your mind and body with healthy stimulation. Allowing yourself time outside of work to pursue other activities not only recharges and refreshes you, it allows you to gain new insights and perspectives for your work tasks.
• Make A List Of What You Find Important In Life
Make an actual, physical list on paper or in your computer. Thinking about what you find meaningful and writing it down are two different things. If we see our goals, tangibly on paper or a screen, we may be more likely to pursue them daily. Learn to write a priority list, make it visible and read it everyday.
• Designate Time For Family and Relationships
If you really want to achieve a work/life balance, you can’t just sit around and wait for free time to present itself. Be realistic. Plan time to spend with your family, friends, and significant others. Stand firm on your commitment. If you are tempted to disappoint, remember your list and think about what is truly important to you.
• Set Aside “no-electronics” Period.
We hear this all the time, but it makes such a difference! With technology becoming more invasive than ever, this is likely the hardest for most of us. Also, many jobs are becoming more flexible, allowing workers to work from home. Remember that the keyword here is balance; make yourself available but also designate time to power down your electronics. Fortunately, both iOS and Android smartphones now have a “Do Not Disturb” feature.
• Make Realistic Goals.
We aren’t Superman or Superwoman. We can’t do everything. Our lists will likely always be never-ending. Do not have unrealistic expectations in doing everything in one day. Give yourself attainable, reasonable daily goals.
• Avoid Over-commitment.
It’s also important not to over-commit. Though often perceived as “weak” or “lazy,” learning to say no may be your most powerful tool. Would you rather be extremely efficient at a handful of things, or sloppy from juggling too many? Creating a work-life balance for yourself is doable and achievable, and should always be aimed for.
