WorkÖ Life? Balance!!!

Recently I’ve been hearing the term “work/life balance” being thrown around the office. It’s surprising. I’m 26 years old and I have never heard of such a concept before. It seems that employees and employers alike are striving for a harmonious relationship between an individuals work and social life. Fabulous news! I’m glad to hear it! Finally the world (or at least some parts) is uniting with a voice that sings “There is life outside of work!”

But, wait a second…what exactly is this whole work/life balance thing? And how can I get some of that going on in my life??? I was curious and I went on a mission to learn more about the work/life balance and what it really means and how an individual can best achieve it.

Basically work/life balance means organizing both your personal and work commitments in a way that suits you. It makes perfect sense to have this as a goal. It also seems pretty darn important.

As a person living with a disability, I know first hand how challenging establishing this balance can be. I’ve often been unemployed and during those times, I get used to focusing on my personal life. When a job comes up, I have to put equal effort in to both areas of my life. It’s difficult, but when obtained, the rewards are invaluable.

Here are some of the key things I’ve learned while researching and practicing the work/life balance that may help you find that fabled “peace of mind”.

• Take time to think about the impact the job you are choosing will have on your life and the lives of the people that are close to you.
• Identify problems that you think may arise or that are currently happening and take the proper steps to resolve them.
• Have a support network that you can depend on if you feel that you have either lost or cannot get that precious balance.
• Don’t overload yourself with too many work or social commitments. We all have limits; make sure you know yours.
• Take time for yourself! Enjoy your leisure, social and family time. Do the things that bring you joy. Try not to let work define you.
• Give yourself credit for all of the wonderful things you accomplish within a day. Often people are too quick to overlook the positive that comes from each day because we tend to focus on the few negative bits
• Be aware of the things that pop up during your day that drain your energy level and take valuable time out of your day. Keep a list of the things that disrupt your day and contemplate on how to either eliminate or reduce them.
• Know when to say “yes” and when to say “no”. This is vital. As humans, we often feel pressured to always say “yes” to any request, regardless of how we already have on the go. It is okay to say “no”…remember that. It’s more damaging to say “yes” to something and not have time to do it than it is to say a polite “no”.
• Put your goals for the day, week, year, life, etc. on paper. Writing these things out will give clear definition as to exactly what it is you want to do. After determining what you goals are, think of the things, people and places that will be able to help you achieve the tasks at hand.
• Choose a job that meets your essential needs. Things like finances, travel, health and values all play factors in this. On the same note, make sure your skills and goals match the employers. Taking the time to research potential employers is a must.

Well that’s several tips to guide you on the road to the Shangri-La known as “work/life balance”. I hope you take note of this when seeking employment because although work is important, so are you!

Balanced Babble By:

Melissa Revels