Do you question whether you’re living life on your terms? Have you ever been called a workaholic? Do you often get that sinking feeling that you should be at the gym, or spending more time with your friends and family? You’re not alone. For today’s job seekers, work/life balance is “in,” and 80 hour work weeks are “out.” According to a Price Waterhouse study, 57% of college students name “attaining a balance between personal life and Career” as their primary career goal, up from 45% in 2006.
Consider the “rocking chair theory” on life. Picture yourself 80 years old, sitting in a rocking chair, and reflecting. What can you do now so you look back on a balanced and fulfilled life? Here are some ideas to get you started.
BALANCING WORK LIFE TIP 1
TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR TIME - No one, not even your dream boss, will ever worry about your personal time – it’s in your court to make this a priority. Take some time every Sunday night to plan out your week, and schedule in family, friend and “me” time. Spend at least one hour each day doing something you enjoy. You’ll be more efficient in the office, and you’ll feel more in control of your life.
BALANCING WORK LIFE TIP 2
WRITE IT DOWN! – Let’s face it – our priorities tend to get lost in the shuffle of everyday life. This is not a subject you want on your back burner. Write a personal statement about what matters most to you in life, and read it once a day. Make a list of your top ten priorities and post it on your refrigerator. Keep a copy in your day planner. Constantly ask yourself, “Does my life match my priorities?” if it doesn’t, write down weekly action steps for change.
BALANCING WORK LIFE TIP 3
DISTRESS AT WORK – when you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed at work, take a breather. Fresh air is a powerful remedy for clearing your head. Try to walk out of the office every day, even for a few minutes. Take 10 long, deep breaths several times a day. Set up a routine for stretching out your arms, shoulders and neck at the same time each day. You’ll reduce stress, keep your priorities straight, and feel more balanced.
BALANCING WORK LIFE TIP 4
ADD FLEXIBILITY TO YOUR LIFE – Telecommuting, flex – time, part time…more and more companies are offering flexible arrangements for moms, dads and everyone else. Make your company need you – if you’re a superstar worker, they just might be willing to go for a nontraditional arrangement. Don’t be afraid to propose alternative set – ups if your corporate culture allows it – just be prepared to work even harder. Prove that you’re more productive and even saving your company money.
BALANCING WORK LIFE TIP 5
SET BOUNDARIES – With home computers, email and fax machines, it’s easier than ever to blur the lines between work and home. If you bring work home, set limits on your work time. Establish a time for turning off your computer, and stick to it. Leave time every evening for yourself and designate nights to have dinner with friends or family.
BALANCING WORK LIFE TIP 6
FIND THE RIGHT JOB FOR YOU – Many of us discover too late that we won’t “have a life” at our jobs. Ask yourself now: “Which jobs and careers will allow me to live the kind of life I want to lead?” Research which companies offer flexible work arrangement and are “family friendly.” Check out books like The 100 Best Companies to Work For in America. Be honest with yourself about what you want and go find it.
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