Published: November 2007
JobsPress.com
Achieving a work-life balance
Work-life balance. It's what many of us want, yet some days it can seem unattainable as we try to juggle competing demands. What's the answer then to achieving a good balance? As the tips below show, there isn't just one. From exercise to prioritization, from self-evaluation to relaxation, there are a variety of approaches. Read on to find out more....
Do you have the Super Mom complex? Do you collapse into bed every night, exhausted? Are you a workaholic, over-achiever, A-plus personality perfectionist? You know who you are! Before you burn out, take a breather. Take an hour each day for yourself and rejuvenate. Give your mind and body a break. Whether you take this hour to read, exercise, or meditate, it does not matter. You need to take care of yourself before you can take care of your family. Life is truly a balancing act!
Mary Yee
Realtor
Royal LePage Atlantic
Balance allows one an inner resilience that allows you to meet the demands of living without being overwhelmed. A work/home balance helps foster an overall balance in one's life. This in turn will positively impact on your life - a happier home, less risk of sickness and breakdown and a more productive work life. I have found many underestimate the value of balance in their lives. Evaluate your life from a larger perspective and look for your physical, chemical and emotional balances. Foster the things that bring balance.
Dr. J. Bradley Lohrenz
Owner/Operator
Robie at Spring Garden Chiropractic Clinic
Achieving a balance between your personal and work life is an ongoing struggle for most people. Prioritizing is key. And I have found that when you ask people who or what is most important they normally answer with...their children, their spouses, that deadline at work. But they forget the most important person of all. Themselves! Your own mental and physical health has to come first. Take the time to exercise, eat healthier, or just sit and relax. You're worth it!
Kim Eldershaw
General Manager/Partner
D'Costa Marketing Limited
After a hard working day, when you get home put your feet up and relax with a glass of cold water. You're not going to believe the difference. It brings your stress level right down.
George Thorne
Owner/Operator
My Mechanic
Work-life balance is a two-way street. Your employer needs to understand that you have a life outside of work, however you must also ensure that you don't let the pressures you experience outside of work affect your job performance. Healthy employees create strong organizations and are more likely to be successful in their careers. To better handle the pressures you experience in and outside of work make sure you maintain a healthy diet, take time to exercise, and surround yourself with strong social supports.
Marla MacDonald
Human Resources Coordinator
Atlantic Employment Services Ltd.
Staying on top of the demands of your professional and personal responsibilities can be exhausting. Start the week with a clear focus of what you want to accomplish, both at work and personally. Throughout the week, evaluate and work on these tasks, crossing them off once completed. Staying on top of YOUR priorities contributes to a happier and healthier lifestyle. Make sure to include something nice for yourself - like a glass of good wine!
Caroline Nichol
Administrative and Logistics Manager
Bishop's Cellar
It may not be easy to achieve a good work-life balance, but the rewards can be great. Our thanks go to this month's contributors - women and men working in different fields who were willing to share what they've learned along the way.
Marie Weeren is president of 10th Floor Solutions, a Halifax business specializing in public relations writing and workshops.
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