It seems like everyone is always talking about mental health, wellbeing and work-life balance. But what is it about and how does one get it?
Ok, so basically in order to be emotionally, physically and mentally healthy, one needs to be in a state of comfort and happiness without exceeding their personal mental, physical or emotional capacity. In order to maintain that level of comfort and happiness (without exceeding it) many recommend having a more “balanced lifestyle”. Essentially, a juggling act between working just enough to get ahead and meeting deadlines, and relaxing just enough to feel recharged to push a little further at work the following day.
It is not just a balancing act – it is a whole cirque du soleil performance. Most individuals do not know how to effectively balance their work and personal life, usually resulting in one or the other to suffer. The good news is, many organisations today are now jumping onboard the wellness band-wagon and supporting the individual, as they can see that work productivity is a direct correlation to a more balanced life-style. However, you should not just wait for your company to direct you when to work and when to relax. You are in control of your own wellbeing and here are 6 ways you can make it happen without compromising your career.
The more you do the more that will be asked from you. Once you bring that high level of energy, it will be expected from you time and time again. So if you are pushing yourself beyond your limits, then verbalise this with your manager. Give only what you can physically and mentally give. It is ok to say no.
You would not miss a business meeting, so don’t miss time for yourself. If you allocated time to go to the gym, go. If you allocated time for a meditation class, go. It is just as important as last weeks forecast meeting (if not more important).
When you get home, allocate a time for total shut down. Dedicate a time for that off switch. It can be right before family dinner time or as soon as you leave the office. Whatever the time, make sure that you turn off any electronics that can reach you and keep them off until the allocated time you decide to switch it back on. Perhaps right after your morning coffee when you are awake enough to handle the many new emails you got through the night.
Perhaps you cannot allocate time every day for yourself, then at the very least create a self-care day that is just for you. A day where you unwind and recharge to full energy levels. It can be as simple as sleeping in, reading a book, listening to a podcast, seeing friends, cooking…whatever gets your calmness game on…do it. If you are looking for self-care ideas and ways to de-stress, then download our 11 ways to handle stress guide here, it is absolutely free.
In order to effectively manage any time for yourself, friends and family, you need to be organised. Otherwise, you may end up doing one activity more than the other and suddenly there is no work-life balance.
Check out our article on why career planning is important to help you think about how work fits into the life you want.
In order to physically get out of the office, and into a social setting, you need to actually agree and commit to after work plans.
Being social is very good for your personal mental health. Even if you are tired and do not feel like it at the time, you will walk away a lot more energised after seeing friends and having a good chat and a laugh.
Just remember, self-care is not selfish and it will not slow down or destroy your career. The very opposite: self-care will allow you to maintain a steady level of energy, happiness and mental focus to be able to thrive in a more fast paced, high intensity working environment.
Without the proper balance in life the scales will tip…which way it tips will be unknown. Either way, one part of your life will suffer and eventually, it will impact the other too. Because without optimal health you will not be able to perform your working duties, and trust us that a fast paced working lifestyles without down time does catch up to you.
The same can be said for the opposite. Without the right level of employment, you may not be able to afford the indulgence of a ‘you’ day. If you spend too much time watching Netflix and less energy into your career, you may not level up as far as you want, which can also impact your happiness and mental health.
Balance is key, so find the right balance for you and your needs and don’t compromise on its importance.
Finding a healthier work-life balance can take time, especially when you are trying to manage your career goals alongside everything else that matters to you.
If you are thinking about what needs to change in your career, our career coaching services can help you explore your options and work towards a path that better supports your goals and priorities.
Reach out to My Career Angels to talk about what your next step could look like.
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How can I improve my work life balance?
Start by noticing where work is taking up more time or energy than you want it to. Set clearer limits around your working hours, switch off when you can and make time for things you enjoy. Small changes can help make your week feel more manageable.
What does a healthy work life balance look like?
It looks different for everyone. It means being able to manage your work while still having time and energy for your health, relationships and the things you enjoy outside work.
How can I set better boundaries at work?
Be honest about how much you can take on, and speak up when your workload gets too much. Talk with your manager about your working hours, when you need to be available and when you’re expected to respond to calls or messages.
Should I disconnect from work after working hours?
Time away from work gives you a chance to rest and focus on your personal life. In Australia, employees have the right to refuse to check or respond to work contact outside their working hours, unless that refusal is unreasonable.
Can self care help with work life balance?
Yes. Looking after yourself means making room for your needs as well as your work. That could be going for a walk, getting enough rest, enjoying a hobby or catching up with friends. It can also mean having some time to yourself with nothing planned.
How can being organised improve work life balance?
Planning your week helps you see what needs doing and where you can make time for yourself. It can also help you spot when you’ve taken on too much and need to move something, ask for help or say no.
Does work life balance mean spending equal time on work and personal life?
No, it doesn’t have to be an even split. Some weeks will need more time at work, while others will need more attention at home. What matters is whether you can manage both without regularly putting your own needs last.
Have you ever found yourself sitting thinking ‘what career is best for me?’ But unable to answer it?
Well, we have one question for you and this question can help you find the right path in answering your own question – what is the right career path for me?!