Work Life Balance: Evening the Scales
No matter what phase of home or work life you’re in, finding a balance between the two can be difficult. Continually favoring one over the other can result in failure in both aspects. Finding a solid work life balance is crucial but absolutely doable.
Self-evaluation in work life balance is challenging, so it’s important to seek feedback from others. By asking your bosses and coworkers if they feel like you’re doing enough, you can get an idea of how effective your balance is on that side of the scale. Then asking your family and friends how they feel you’re managing your balance and comparing the two responses can give you a good idea of how you’re doing. If either party feels neglected, the easiest way to even the scales is to ask them what more you can do to improve their experience. Often simple things like avoiding distractions or putting in a little extra time can make a big difference.
Maximizing your time can make the biggest difference in your work life balance. Ensuring that you give 100% to your job during working hours then 100% in your personal life will improve your balance significantly. It will ensure you stay on top of your work projects and communications, while avoiding distractions. Plus, it’ll allow you to unplug after work, allowing yourself a break from that stress. Look for wholesome activities to do with your friends or family that help to relieve your stress and clear your mind. Not only does this create quality time with those in your home life, but it also helps you to return to work the next day with a fresh perspective and new ideas.
With each different phase of life, your abilities and work life balance will change. For example, a new baby, an illness or death in the family, or a vacation can favor your life for a time, while allowing your work to take a back seat. Then at another time, your home life may be a bit more simple while you have a big project to handle at work. The key to handling this effectively is with communication. Communicating with your boss and coworkers when you have a stressful situation at home can help them to understand that you need a bit of a break from busy work. It’s also important to communicate with your friends and family so they know when you’re tackling an extra work load. When both parties are properly communicated with, it’s easier for them to be patient with and support you.
