Even with a massive workload, there are ways to ensure your work-life balance remains intact. Here’s some tips to take you from the desk to that after work date in one swift click of a mouse.
Set boundaries
There is nothing worse than dedicating eight plus hours to an employer, only to take a briefcase packed with work home with you. Know when to cut it off. Emergency situations may arise and you may encounter fires that need to be put out, but you must establish when enough is enough. If your work is interfering with your ability to maintain healthy relationships outside of work, you should implement a self-check. Those closest to you can often serve as sounding boards for venting, but it shouldn’t be an everyday occurrence. If you eat dinner with your family each evening or prefer not to take work calls on the weekends, let it be known. Set boundaries with your coworkers and help them understand that you’ll respond within 48 hours but unless someone’s hair is on fire, you are not to be interrupted during your Saturday spa day.
Plan your day
Making a list before your workday can help you prioritize and set timelines for your tasks. Not only does writing things down help organize your workflow, but it also helps clear your mind so you can be more productive. Making a list of your tasks gives you a sense of accomplishment. Checking items off your list provides visual evidence of the work you’ve done so you feel less guilty about rewarding yourself with a date night with your girls. Keep in mind that creating your plan is just the first step to taking control of your workday. The process is completely in vain if you don’t follow through with your plan. Be sure to set deadlines to hold yourself accountable.
Practice self-care
As a workingwoman, you can successfully manage stress by finding your happy place. Whether it’s reading a book, getting a massage or a weekly mani-pedi, find something that gives you the “me time” you need to rejuvenate. Stress impacts your ability to productively interact with others and make sound decisions. We can’t operate in constant stress no matter strong we are or how much we want to prove to others we can. Managing a career and home life simultaneously is not impossible if you pay attention when your body is waving the white flag. Keeping a journal of your feelings throughout your workday can help you manage your stress levels by identifying your triggers. You could discover that your emotions are best kept in check by handling certain tasks at different times of the day.
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is beneficial to your mental and physical well-being. Women shouldn’t feel guilty for putting themselves first. By adjusting your habits of planning and recuperating, you really can have it all in your career and family.
Ashley Watkins, of Write Step Resumes, LLC, helps job seekers and career changers write their career dreams into reality one step at a time. She can be found on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, or via www.WriteStepResumes.com for resume help, interview prep, career tips, and motivational quotes. Click here to schedule a FREE consult today!
Originally posted on HelloBeautiful.com
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