This is the challenge isn’t it? How do we find balance between our professional responsibilities and our personal lives? The transition from office life to now working from the comfort of our own home has brought to light unprecedented challenges. On the one hand we are loving the flexibility but on the other hand it has blurred the line between work and pleasure.
As we navigate this changing environment it is crucial that we find a routine and implement strategies to find harmony between our professional and personal worlds.
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As you read this article you will find practical tips and helpful methods so that you can discover that balance. From establishing a dedicated work space, setting boundaries and practicing some mindfulness (it really works). Striking the balance is crucial to a fulfilling journey of productivity and your own personal wellbeing.
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Here are some simple practicable tips you can implement today:
1. Establish a dedicated workspace.
You need to create a space that is strictly for work! The benefit of mentally separating your professional and personal spaces cannot be understated. Creating these dedicated spaces promotes focus during work time and relaxation after.
2. Set clear boundaries.
Define specific work times. This will help prevent work from encroaching on your personal time. Communicate these boundaries to your friends, family and housemates. The goal is to minimise any disruptions so let people know when they can expect you to be working.
3. Create a routine.
Create a daily schedule like you would at any job, this includes breaks, meals and designated work times. A sense of structure helps differentiate work from pleasure. Structure will also help with your overall well-being and reduce you feeling overwhelmed. A helpful tip is to use timers or alarms. Set yourself reminders throughout the day.
4. Prioritise your tasks for the day.
Identify tasks based on urgency and importance. This will help you manage your workload, again reducing the likelihood of feeling overwhelmed.
5. Take breaks!
Breaks are so important to refresh your mind and prevent burnout. You’re in the comfort of your home so think about some physical activity. A short walk or stretching exercises can be beneficial.
6. Communicate availability.
Not only should you set boundaries with friends and family, you should also set boundaries with your work colleagues. Clearly communicate your availability to establish expectation about when they can contact you or when they can expect a response time.
7. Disconnect afterwork.
Resist the temptation to continue to work, such as checking emails or messages after your set work times. Allow yourself to fully unwind.
8. Invest in self-care.
Prioritise activities for yourself, such as exercise, hobbies, spending time with friends and family. Nurturing your personal wellbeing will contribute to a healthy work/life balance.
9. Check in with yourself.
Adjust any of these strategies if needed. Hold yourself accountable for how you are showing up during work time and in your personal time. Be flexible, life is always changing. Be open to changing your routine if your current one no longer works or serves you.
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Achieving a balance between professional commitments and personal wellbeing is an ongoing journey. Embrace the adaptability that comes from working from home. This will be a continuous process of adapting. By implementing these strategies you can enhance your productivity and also create a fulfilling work/life balance. These strategies will help you create a life that prioritises the demands of your job and also your overall wellbeing in your personal life
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