5 Tips for a Better Work-Life Balance
Approximately 70% of Americans struggle to find a work-life balance that works for them. When you’re an entrepreneur and a leader, that challenge is all too real. Often, it feels like work is all you do, because after all, your business is your baby, and it takes hard work to raise a baby. While there are certain joys that come with building a successful career, every once in a while, burnout happens and you have to reassess your situation. Here are our top five tips for finding a work-life balance that works for you!
1. Manage Your Time
Prioritize your time at work as well as your personal time. Set aside space in your calendar for things that matter to you–whether that’s time for exercise or family. Start with the most important and least flexible responsibilities, and build your schedule out from there. Increasing your productivity at work is another helpful way to prevent work-time from creeping into life-time.
2. Reflect & Communicate About What’s Working and What Isn’t
Take some time (we recommend at least every six months) to really reflect on whether or not you’re happy with your current work-life balance. Take note of the things that are working for you and the points that might need some changing. Communicate that with the important people in your life (whether that’s your boss or family) so that they know where you stand and if necessary, make compromises and adjustments so that all parties are happy. Remember, it’s okay to say no.
3. Define Success
Set your own parameters for success. What does it mean for YOU to be successful? What are the values that are important to you? Write it DOWN, and then use that as guideline for all the decisions you make in life so that you never find yourself drifting away from what matters.
4. Set Passion Goals
Just like you have work and career goals, set some passionate life goals! What’s on your lifetime bucket-list? What are some experiences that you refuse to miss out on? Write them down and create a tangible plan (timeline included) for how you will achieve this. One of the best things you can do is enroll a buddy into doing this exercise with you. Find someone who understands your goals and will keep you honest and accountable. These are the things that you’ve stated that you want–now go make that happen.
5. Develop A Strong Support Network
Never underestimate the power of human connection. When times get tough, know that you can always fall back on your loved ones to guide you in the right direction. They can offer you an outsider’s perspective and you can trust that they always have your best interests at heart. Make time for your social life and create a network that brings you joy.
Life is short, so make it count! What are some of your tips for creating balance around work?
