Work Life Balance: Here's how to ACHIEVE the balance in your professional life

It almost seems impossible in today’s world of constant contact to turn off our phone and simply tune out the pressing demands of work. The demands of our clients, co-workers, superiors and careers make us always feel there is an urgency to respond and be on top of our business at every moment. We are also told that one of the ways to ensure success is by being constantly busy and highly communicative. While all of that is good and fine, we can ignore the fact that bringing work home eats away the time that we are supposed to be relaxing  which further frustrates us. It is humanly impossible to juggle life and work efficiently everyday but we still have to try our best. So, it’s time to sit back and ask ourselves “how much is too much?” and “how can I improve my work-life balance?”

1. Determine why you are working so hard

Working hard is not only a choice but it is expected from every employee. Nonetheless you to determine what exactly is pushing you to work so hard. If you are in a comfortable position in your career where everyone knows how valuable you are, it’s time to cut yourself some slack. Do not work hard just for the sake of it, make sure your time and energy is worth the work you are doing.

2. Take regular breaks

As an employee, do not shy away from utilising your medical and paid leaves. Do not offer to work on weekends unless it’s unavoidable. Go on trips, take a long weekend or ask to work from home. Don’t hesitate to take some time off if you are feeling unwell.

3. Demand the Right to Disconnect

Thanks to 24/7 connectivity, it’s virtually impossible to disconnect. Work mails, calls and texts can find you anywhere at any time of the day. Make it clear to your colleagues that you won’t be entertaining any work communication once you leave for home till the next day when you are at work again. Do not feel bad about not replying to work communication instantly. Try to disconnect to relieve yourself from stress and anxiety.

4. Do not be obsessive about your to-do list

Most of us go into work every day with certain goals to achieve by the end of the day. If you are unable to meet the goals by the end of the day, do not beat yourself up about it. Trust your coworkers to share your responsibilities and learn to let go of things you have no control over. Do not feel bad about carrying forward the day’s work to the next day.