Taking Back Your Time: Redefining Work-Life Balance

If you can recall a time, past or present, when the lines between work and life were blurred; then you’re not alone.  This is that thing we call work-life balance. A foreign concept to some and a way of life for others. But what does work-life balance really mean? Checking emails before you get out of bed, skipping meals for meetings or spending your weekends catching your to-do list? I hope not.

Work-life balance isn’t about doing less; it’s about doing things differently. It’s a lifestyle rooted in boundaries.  It’s making the choice to prioritize your time and reclaim your life. But for many, that realization doesn’t come easy.

Here are some tips that can help you balance your work and life without the big bang burnout:

First Things First: Instead of starting your day stressing about your first meeting, get out of bed, do a slow and intentional stretch to wake up your body, do multiple inhales and exhales, then get ready to get the day started.

Travel Time: Turn your daily commute into “me time.” On the ride, throw on your favorite audio book or some music that gets you excited for the day. Turn this commute into a relaxation ritual for yourself.

Pick up your pick me up: Stop by your favorite café on the way to work and don’t forget say hello and tip your favorite barista! Grab your favorite sweet treat or your favorite breakfast sandwich!

Living for the Weekend: Your weekends are just that, the end of the week, which means it’s your time so focus on you and the ones you love. Make weekends anticipating! Make plans for your weekends to ensure you are using that time wisely and have fun!

Put Work on Mute: No answering emails after 6 PM during the week and NOT AT ALL on the weekend, unless there’s a fire.

Avoid the Burnout: when you feel the burnout coming on – breakout! Take an hour or two or ten to reset, recharge and regain your composure. Burnout is for the birds!

Work-life balance is not about sacrificing one for the other, it’s about finding a solid balance between the two. With balance comes power, so take control, set your boundaries, and just remember: your life does not revolve around your work; your work should support the life that you want to live!