Module 04: On the Job Success
Work-Life Balance
Are You in Balance?
A moderate amount of stress improves our efficiency and mental sharpness. How do you know when your everyday juggling act is no longer a motivating challenge? Are you harming your health and sense of well being?
Here are some signs:
- You feel like you’ve lost control of your life
- You often feel guilty about neglecting your other obligations
- 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?
(2022). 3 rules for better work-life balance. TED series. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4c_xYLwOx-g&t=1s
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.
- 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.
In Your Community
- Make choices. Social, community and volunteer obligations can pull us in many different directions. Choose the ones that are most fulfilling and learn to say “no” to the rest.
