Must Read: 5 Steps to Create a Healthy Work-Life Balance
Just as it should be a source of happiness, work can get hectic sometimes and can be so draining, you can’t seem to make time for yourself. Work is a major part of our lives. It occurs every day and so, we mustn't let it overwhelm us or overshadow every other aspect of our lives, as they are just as important. We must have an active life away from work and create time for ourselves, for the benefit of our health and wellness.
We know that maintaining a healthy work-life balance can be a challenge, even in the best of times. But it is all the more daunting and necessary during times of economic uncertainty.
The ongoing pandemic may have led to cutbacks and layoffs which have had many employees put in longer hours and working harder than ever to prove they are an indispensable part of the team.
However, numerous studies have shown that the most productive employees are professionals with a full and well-balanced life, both in and out of the workplace. And also, the most successful companies are those that ensure the health and wellbeing of employees are a top priority while enhancing organizational performance and productivity.
So, if you’re looking to bring your most efficient self to work every day, it is best to find a healthy work-life balance and these are some helpful steps:
Track your time.
Analyzing and understanding your present situation is the first step to take to achieve a balanced life. Keeping a time log of everything you do for at least a week, including work-related and personal activities, will serve as an eye-opener, helping you understand how you are using your time.
Determine your priorities:
Take some time to seriously reflect on what is most important to you, and make a list of your top priorities at work and home. Then analyze your time survey by asking yourself these key questions: What do I need to start doing? Stop doing? continue doing? Do more of? Do less of? Do differently?
Set specific goals & schedule scrupulously:
Take your list of priorities and turn them into concrete, measurable and attainable goals. These priorities could be both work-related and non-work-related. Block time into your schedule for activities (including breaks) just like you would for an important meeting or an appointment. Time management is key to maintaining a healthy work like balance and setting time-based goal ensures you achieve them and still have time set aside for yourself.
Most successful people make plans that guide them to their daily goals. Set aside 10 to 20 minutes at the beginning of each day to plan your tasks and activities for the day and evening ahead.
Take care of your health:
Your health should always on your top priorities. If you are not in good shape physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually, it would have negative effects on both your work life and your personal life. Take care of yourself Eat healthy meals (especially breakfast), exercise at least three times a week and sleep a minimum of seven hours per night.
These practices relieve stress, raise your energy level, increase your stamina, improve your mental clarity, boost your immune system, and make you a happier, more engaged, and more productive person. Additionally, refrain from the excessive use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs to relieve stress. These substances only tend to keep the body in a stressed state and cause even more damage.
Leave work at work:
Yes, you can create a mental on-off switch between work and home. It ensures a smooth transition between the two realms. This might consist of engaging in your hobbies, exercising at a fitness centre, visiting family, hanging out with friends, grocery shopping, or keeping personal appointments. Scheduling such activities immediately following your normal work hours also prevents you from spending that extra twenty minutes at the office which then turns into several hours.
The importance of making out time for your self cannot be overemphasised. Indulge in some small pleasure daily. Take at least 30 minutes of uninterrupted "you time." It will have a very positive effect on your wellbeing. If you’re not sure what to do with your “you-time”, book an appointment at ORÍKÌ and pamper yourself with a well-deserved massage, facial/body treatment, manicure, pedicure or anyone one of our services tailored to your desires.
It is very much possible to have a successful professional career and a fulfilling personal life. Take control of your work. Be proactive with your time. Get a (balanced) life.