4.11 Work-Life Balance

Are You in Balance?

A moderate amount of stress improves our efficiency and our mental sharpness. But how do you know when your everyday juggling act is no longer a motivating challenge but harmful to your health? Here are some signs:

• You feel like you’ve lost control of your life
• You often feel guilty about neglecting your various roles
• You frequently find it difficult to concentrate on the task at hand
• You’re always tired

Video Activity

What does work-life balance mean to you?

Tips for Staying in Balance

Take control – there are ways to help bring yourself into balance!

At Work

• Schedule brief breaks for yourself throughout the day. Your productivity and effectiveness will increase if you take even a ten-minute break every two hours and overall, you’ll get more accomplished.
• At the end of each day, set your priorities for the following day. Be realistic about what you can achieve in the time you have available.
• Only respond to email several times a day. Then, close your email program to avoid being distracted as messages come in.
• Make a distinction between work and the rest of your life. Protect your private time by turning off electronic communications. Don’t be available 24/7.

At Home

• Create a buffer between work and home. After work, take a brief walk, do a crossword puzzle, or listen to some music before beginning the evening’s routine.
• Determine which household chores are critical and which can be done by someone else. Let the rest go.
• Exercise. Even if it’s only for 15 minutes at a time. It’ll leave you feeling more energized and refreshed.
• Create and implement a household budget. Start by setting aside some money from each paycheque for the future.

In Your Community

• Make choices. Social, community and volunteer obligations pull us in many directions. Choose the ones that are most fulfilling and learn to say “no” to the rest.