And I knew my life would change because the job required a lot of hours with an unbalanced and unsteady weekly schedule, and very little downtime during the work day.
Knowing that I have my business projects on a timeline, I am determined not to push them aside. So I needed to re-ground myself.
Here's some helpful tips for a better work-life balance.
1. Build downtime into your schedule.
When I plan my week (which I do on Sundays), I make it a point to schedule time with my beau, friends and hobbies. (I play tennis.)
These activities help me to recharge.
If a date night with your spouse or a softball game with friends is on your calendar, you'll have something to look forward to and an extra incentive to manage your time well so you don't have to cancel.
AND DON'T CANCEL!
2. Drop activities that aren't woth your time or energy.
"Many people waste their time on activities or people that add no value -- for example, spending too much time at work with a colleague who is constantly venting and gossiping," says Marilyn Puder-York, PhD, a psychologist and executive coach in New York and Connecticut.
Her advice: Take stock of activities that don't enhance your career or personal life, and minimize the time you spend on them.
3. Rethink your errands.
Consider whether you can outsource any of your time-consuming household chores or errands.
Could you order your groceries online and have them delivered? Hire a kid down the street to mow your lawn? Have your dry cleaning picked up and dropped off at your home or office? Order your stamps online so you don't have to go to the post office? Even if you're on a tight budget, you may discover that the time you'll save will make it worth it.
4. Get moving. Stay moving.
It's hard to make time for exercise when you have a jam-packed schedule, but it may ultimately help you get more done by boosting your energy level and ability to concentrate.
"Research shows exercise can help you to be more alert," Brooks says. "And I've noticed that when I don't exercise because I'm trying to squeeze in another half hour of writing, I don't feel as alert."Even when you don't think you have anymore to give, put on those running shoes and take yourself around the block in your neighborhood. It will definitely change your life. Dedication and making it NOT an option is the ONLY way it will work.
5. Remember that a little relaxation goes a long way.
Don't assume that you need to make big changes to bring more balance to your life. Brooks recommends setting realistic goals, like leaving the office earlier 1 night per week.
"Slowly build more activities into your schedule that are important to you," he says. "Maybe you can start by spending an hour a week on your hobby of carpentry, or planning a weekend getaway with your spouse once a year."
Even during a hectic day, you can take 10 or 15 minutes to do something that will recharge your batteries. "Take a bath, read a trashy novel, go for a walk, or listen to music," Stack says. "You have to make a little time for the things that ignite your joy."
*help with this article came from WebMD
My tip is that you should always take time for yourself in the morning...like meditate or a walk.
ReplyDelete