Ah, that ever-elusive work-life balance.
We all know about it, we all crave it, but maybe we don’t exactly know how to achieve it.
Well, there’s no time like the present to take control of your personal happiness—it will translate into a happier, healthier work environment, which is the key to a healthier home life, which will make you a better worker, and so on. It’s a cycle that can make or break your mental health.
Here are some important tips on how to improve your personal life in ways that will positively impact your professional life.
Get Moving!
Regular exercise is the closest thing we have to a magic bullet when it comes to decreasing stress, improving sleep, and preventing all manner of health issues.
Experts recommend thirty to forty-five minutes of moderate exercise four or five days a week, but do what you can, even if that means taking the dog for a longer walk than usual after work or getting up early and doing some yoga.
You will feel more relaxed, you’ll focus better at work, and you might even be happier about your body. There’s no downside to exercise, and it is guaranteed to improve your personal life, which will make you happier at work.
Unplug!
It can be very tempting to answer work emails at home, especially if you work from home or have a flexible schedule, but try to be disciplined in your use of the computer and smartphone during your off hours. It’s crucial to find time to unplug from the stress of work.
But unplugging will look different for different people. For some, it might mean being intentional and regimented about working at home — setting aside half an hour to work after dinner, for example, and then turning off the phone. Others might have no trouble tackling an urgent work email or phone call before seamlessly transitioning back to family life.
Figure out what works for you, and then stick to that pattern so that you aren’t a slave to your work email at all hours.
Lean on your support network!
Identify those people in your life — friends, family, certain colleagues – you can lean on when you’re feeling overwhelmed.
It’s also a great idea to find out if your company has an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which can provide you with even more support, including a referral to a mental-health or other medical professional.
Don’t be shy about asking for help, and don’t isolate yourself. Spend your free time interacting with people who make you feel strong, happy, and healthy.
A strong group of friends and family (whether they’re physically in your neighborhood or part of your world-wide web of connections) is key to maintaining your personal happiness and at-work satisfaction.
Bottom line
A strong personal life translates to a healthy work life, so take care of yourself. You deserve it — and your career might depend on it.
