We all know that it can be difficult to have a good work-life balance. It isn’t always easy to strike a balance between a happy boss and a happy family, but there are some simple things that you can do both at home and work to enable you to find that balance.
Because this is so important, it has been covered by groups like Mental Health America, Web M.D., Forbes, and Business News Daily. Now you could Google all this information yourself but this article will condense all this information into 5 quick and simple tips that will enable you to create a more balanced life.
1. The Power Of Routine
One of the first things you should do every day is produce a to-do list and order things in priority. Doing this allows you to focus more of your energy on the most important tasks for the day and by using a simple checklist that you can refer to, you can quickly see what you have managed to accomplish druing that particular day. Having a daily routine can ne a quick way to reduce work-based stress and you will accomplish more so your boss will be happy too; a win-win situation.
You can also use the power of routines at home as they are a quick way to let everyone know what’s going on and when. But don’t forget that you need time to unwind and relax, so don’t be afraid to give yourself and your family some valuable downtime just to chill out and unwind from the stresses of the day. And this downtime is the perfect time to come together as a family and bond, so you will all feel even closer, so pleasae don’t neglect adding this to your routine; it is critical for your family relationships and will bring you all closer together.
2. Make Use Of Technology
Technology is so smart these days, so if you are sick, your children are sick, or the commute will be extra-long due to weather or outside circumstances, then make use of it to work remotely from home. Use Skype for conference and video calls, and this way you can still provide your employer with what they need while giving you some breathing room.
3. Learn to Say No
Most people are just downright uncomfortable with saying no at work but the problem with this is that it results in you taking on too many tasks, working overtime, and becoming increasingly stressed about not being able to get it all done. If there’s a job you know that you won’t be able to get done on time or that you are not suited for, be prepared to say no. You may be surprised at how well this is received by your employer.
You also need to be able to say no to social and home life events that could end up being too taxing as well. Do you have social obligations that are just too draining? Perhaps they don’t allow you to spend enough time with your family in the evenings. Cutting back on these social engagements will help you to have more family time and restore balance.
4. Learn Your Employer’s Policies And Know Your Rights
Learning leave, vacation, sick, and disability policies are paramount. Also, learn what telecommunication systems your company has in place. If there aren’t any, you may need to ask. This will alleviate any stress if you need to use vacation or sick days or if you need to telecommute.
If you have children, it may be beneficial to learn their school’s policies too. Knowing the procedure for turning in sick notes, calling out for the day, or showing up late can save a lot of headache for all of you!
5. Communicate
Let your employer know what’s going on. Let them know where you’re at on individual projects, if you’re going to be on time, ahead of deadline or behind on schedule. Communicating these vital elements to your employer will help you both as they know where you are and can allocate assistance if required and this can reduce stress for you too; just be honest.
Communication at home is probably even more critical than at work, especially if you are married with kids! Make sure you that everyone knows what is going on with you. And conversely, it is good to know what is going on with everyone else.
Why not have a family meeting once a week to discuss upcoming events, anything that is causing stress or friction, things that may need planning and other elements of life that could cause stress if not well planned? This simple act alone may help you to find that balance between work and home.
OK, so there you have it;these five simple steps can really help you find some balance in your busy life. Do you have your own ways that you use to strike work-life balance that weren’t on the list? If so, good for you and keep to them if they are working for you and your family.
