Let's all agree to stop working so hard
There may be a time and place in our lives where we need to be pulling all nighters, answering emails during family dinners or waking up in the middle of the night to check our work email. However, it's important that you are able to recognise that these "hustle" behaviours should not be normalised, and that they are not healthy.
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In today's fast-paced world, finding an equilibrium between your paid work and personal life is more crucial than ever. Whether you're presenting in a boardroom or sipping a matai on holidays, every moment of your everyday is your actual life, and I am of the firm belief that we should be able to find joy in all of it, as much as possible.
I want to help you protect your work/life balance by being able to set firm boundaries and implement self-care practices so you can enhance your overall well-being and achieve greater success in all areas of your life.
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Being aware of and maintaining a healthy work/life balance can positively impact your physical, mental, and emotional health and even improve your professional performance.
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Why your work/life balance should be a priority:
Enhanced well-being
Balancing work and personal life helps prevent burnout and reduces stress levels. It promotes better sleep, boosts your immune system, and improves your overall happiness and satisfaction.
Improved productivity
​Taking regular breaks and engaging in activities outside of work rejuvenates your mind and increases productivity. You'll be able to focus better, make better decisions, and bring more creativity to your work.
Stronger relationships
Spending quality time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, and engaging in social activities strengthens your relationships and fosters a sense of belonging, leading to increased happiness and support in both personal and professional spheres.
Tips for maintaining a work/life balance
Establish Boundaries
Clearly define your work hours and communicate them with colleagues and clients. Avoid checking emails or taking work-related calls outside of those hours. Set aside dedicated time for personal activities and stick to them.
Prioritize Self-Care
Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. Engage in activities that relax and rejuvenate you, such as exercise, meditation, reading, or spending time in nature. Remember, taking care of yourself is essential for maintaining your overall well-being. If you notice you are feeling drained at work and overwhelmed, check in on the areas of your life that you are neglecting and try to give them some love!
Delegate and Outsource
Learn to delegate tasks at work and outsource personal tasks when possible. By sharing responsibilities, you can free up time and energy to focus on what truly matters to you. As a bonus, delegating tasks and communicating what you are up to can be a positive relationship building activity at work.
Unplug Regularly
Disconnect from technology regularly, especially outside of work hours. Put your phone on silent or airplane mode, and resist the urge to constantly check notifications. Use this time to engage in activities that help you unwind and recharge.
Practice Time Management
Prioritize your tasks, set realistic deadlines, and break larger projects into smaller, manageable steps. Be willing to let go of the stuff that doesn't matter.
Seek Support
Reach out to friends, family, or mentors for support and guidance.