Master the balance of work and life.
Some people think a good work/life balance is actually a myth, but a better work/life balance could very well become a reality for you. There are plenty of work/life balance tips that you can use to get a better blend into your life.
Look at the following issues that often plague those without a proper balance between work and life. If any of these sound familiar, check out the corresponding work/life balance tips to get on your way to a more balanced, less stressful, happier life.
Issue: I don’t have enough money.
Troubleshooting tip: A better work/life balance could fix this right up, as too much time for living and not enough time for working (or doing quality work) may be the issue. You often can fix this by working more hours, getting a part time job, or looking for a better paying position.
Issue: I don’t have any friends.
Troubleshooting: While not having enough people in your social circle may not seem relevant to a healthy balance between work and life, this is actually something that can be solved with some smart work/life balance tips. Some people may lack friends because of personality problems, intense shyness or other issues, but many people don’t have companions due to problems in their balance between work and life. You may want to work less, if possible, or you may want to begin mixing work and life, turning coworkers into friends. Of course, once you aren’t working you will need to live your life, getting out and going places where you may make new friends and strengthen existing bonds.
Issue: I hate my job.
Troubleshooting: Jobs can be bad for a variety of reasons, and some may just be poorly suited to you. For some of us, however, being dissatisfied with a job is due to a need for a better work/life balance. You may need to spend more time enjoying your life to begin appreciating your job, and usually this means using some vacation time or sick days to get in balance a bit quicker. It may also be time for a change of employers or a new field.
Issue: I’m not happy.
Troubleshooting: There are a lot of things that determine happiness, and for many, work/life balance is a major component. To start with, you need to determine what makes you happy, and you will also have to pinpoint what makes you unhappy. If you are sad because you are unfulfilled, you may need to change your career goals, look toward a promotion, or get a new career. If you are sad because of other areas of life, you may need to take time away from work to focus on these other aspects. Working closely with a life coach can help you to find out why you are not fulfilled, and he or she can give you effective work/life balance tips and other advice to help you reach a richer and more satisfying life.
COMMENTS
Andrew Irons
April 14, 2013I used to hate my job. I realized that it was because I had zero work/life balance. I would work over the weekends, take my work home and bore my friends and wife with talk about work work work. It was only when it started putting a real strain on my personal life did I make the decision to compartmentalize work and play. It was an excellent decision and I recommend this to everyone. Life isn't all about work. No matter how much you love your job, it can't love you back the way your family and friends can.
Andrew Irons
April 14, 2013What action steps are you taking? Have your say ...