Life can be stressful. And thanks to a worldwide pandemic, stress levels for many workers have been at an all-time high.
One way to cope is to focus on proper work/life balance. Mastering this technique is an important way to help reduce stress while preventing burnout in the workplace.
For many workers chronic stress is one of the most common health issues. The coupling of increased workloads with technology that keeps us constantly connected to our jobs leaves many workers feeling overwhelmed, discouraged and drained. And that doesn’t even take into consideration the added stresses from dealing with COVID-19.
The good news is you can have a successful professional career and a fulfilling personal life. Take some time to review the work/life strategies below and you’ll be on the road to achieving a healthier lifestyle.
Keep Track of Your Time
Analyzing your situation is the start to achieving a balanced life. Keep a list of everything you do for one week, including work-related and personal activities. This will serve as an eye-opener, helping you understand how you’re using – and losing – your time.
Decide Your Priorities
Think about what’s important to you – and make a list of your top priorities at work and at home. Then analyze what you’ve come up with by asking yourself: How realistic are my priorities? What do I need to start doing? Stop doing? Do more of? Do differently? What is my timeframe for achieving my goals?
Take Control
You have one life, so have one date planner. Whether paper or electronic, this is the tool you can use to turn your priorities into reality. Set aside a few minutes at the beginning (or end) of each work day to plan your tasks and activities for the day ahead.
Create Sustainable Boundaries
Set realistic limits on what you can do at work and at home. Clearly communicate these to your supervisor, coworkers, and family. For example, you might decide to not work late on certain days unless there’s a crisis. You can also prioritize your time at home so that you’re focusing on family, hobbies, keeping up with friends, cooking, etc.
Your Health Comes First
Stay physically and mentally fit by exercising at least 30 minutes five times per week. It’s also important to sleep a minimum of seven hours per night. While you may not think you have time to add exercise and extra sleep to your day, these practices relieve stress, raise your energy level, improve mental clarity, and make you a happier, more engaged and productive person.
Need Help? Ask!
If you’re overwhelmed at work, don’t suffer in silence. Talk to your boss or supervisor. Stay positive – long-term stressful work situations can usually be alleviated, but it’ll take some assertiveness and awareness on your part to raise the flag before you drown in projects.
Leave your Work at Work
Develop a mental on-off switch between work and home. This might mean listening to music during your evening commute, exercising at the gym, or meeting with a friend or significant other. And when you get home, resist the temptation to check work emails or texts unless absolutely necessary. Make your home your safe haven!
Contact Malone Workforce Solutions Today
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