9 answers
Genevieve
Student
Cedar Rapids
80
Questions
Asked
615 views
How to maintain/cultivate work-life balance?
I want to live a full, happy life, and I don't want my life revolving around my job more so than necessary.
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9 answers
Jonathan Willard
Software Engineer
5
Answers
Hopatcong, New Jersey
Updated
Jonathan’s Answer
An important step is to make sure you have other things in your life that you get value from. Whether it be family, hobbies or social activity. If the only value you get in your life comes from work, it is very easy to fall into the trap of working more and more.
Another case is that sometimes we get so stuck in the day to day that we don't realize we are not spending enough time on our life and are working too much. I find myself in this position, and I decided this year to track the time I spend on things in my life. I use an app called Toggl and I literally track every hour of the day with what I am doing. I break things down into Life with my wife, Time with my kids, Work and Sleep. I set goals for the percentage of the day I'd like to spend on each category, and then I go back each month and look at the reports to see if I am working too much or not enough. I can see when I have spent less time with my kids and I can take measures to try and balance that out in the coming months. I realize this may not be for everyone, but there is value is tracking your time like this to make sure your life looks the way you want it to be. I got this idea from Rob Drydek. He some interesting content on this if you search his name and "work life balance" in Youtube.
Another case is that sometimes we get so stuck in the day to day that we don't realize we are not spending enough time on our life and are working too much. I find myself in this position, and I decided this year to track the time I spend on things in my life. I use an app called Toggl and I literally track every hour of the day with what I am doing. I break things down into Life with my wife, Time with my kids, Work and Sleep. I set goals for the percentage of the day I'd like to spend on each category, and then I go back each month and look at the reports to see if I am working too much or not enough. I can see when I have spent less time with my kids and I can take measures to try and balance that out in the coming months. I realize this may not be for everyone, but there is value is tracking your time like this to make sure your life looks the way you want it to be. I got this idea from Rob Drydek. He some interesting content on this if you search his name and "work life balance" in Youtube.
Thank you! I really appreciate your advice. :)
Genevieve
Peter Senna Tschudin
GPU Software Engineer @ Intel
2
Answers
Zürich, Switzerland
Updated
Peter’s Answer
I suggest reading "How Will You Measure Your Life?" by the brilliant Clayton Christensen.
Start by reflecting on what you truly want from life. Once you have a clear understanding of that, you’ll begin to see your job as one of the tools that helps you "be" where you want to be (I say "be" rather than "get" because life is about the journey, not the destination).
I’m grateful for my job because my colleagues are fantastic, it’s intellectually challenging, and it empowers me to live the life I desire. This means I’m happily willing to dedicate a significant portion of my time to my employer.
Start by reflecting on what you truly want from life. Once you have a clear understanding of that, you’ll begin to see your job as one of the tools that helps you "be" where you want to be (I say "be" rather than "get" because life is about the journey, not the destination).
I’m grateful for my job because my colleagues are fantastic, it’s intellectually challenging, and it empowers me to live the life I desire. This means I’m happily willing to dedicate a significant portion of my time to my employer.
Thank you!
Genevieve
Jhanvi Bhatia
Product Deisgner
7
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Jhanvi’s Answer
To start with, set clear boundaries by defining your work hours and communicating them to colleagues. Limit after-hours work by resisting the urge to check emails or take calls outside of those times. I personally do not keep work apps on my personal phone.
Make space for hobbies that bring you joy, whether it’s playing painting, travelling or reading, and ensure you carve out time for relaxation and family. I do this post my office hours, at the end of the day.
Practice mindfulness by staying present in whatever you’re doing, whether at work or during leisure activities.
Make space for hobbies that bring you joy, whether it’s playing painting, travelling or reading, and ensure you carve out time for relaxation and family. I do this post my office hours, at the end of the day.
Practice mindfulness by staying present in whatever you’re doing, whether at work or during leisure activities.
Thank you!
Genevieve
Amruta Khadye
Software Engineer
1
Answer
Fremont, California
Updated
Amruta’s Answer
Maintaining work-life balance requires prioritizing tasks. Companies should offer flexible schedules. Setting boundaries is crucial—knowing when to stop working and focus on personal life daily. Tools available nowadays can measure time spent on work activities, and I recommend using them to manage time effectively.
Thank you!
Genevieve
Silviu Tugui
Support Leader
2
Answers
Prague, Czechia
Updated
Silviu’s Answer
Work-life balance has a unique meaning for each of us. The first step is understanding what this means to you. Is it an 8-hour, 6-hour, or 4-hour job? Is it freelance work or a permanent position? There are many options in the job market, so it's essential to discover what's best for you. You might not know right away; evaluating your options alone won't be enough. I believe that experiencing one or more job setups is necessary to achieve a balanced life between work and personal life.
Thank you!
Genevieve
Hana Imberi
HRIS Analyst
8
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Hana’s Answer
I think the best thing you can do is really make your life outside of work a priority. As long as you continue to think about this and make work life balance important to you you will be fine. Make sure to plan things outside of work to hold yourself accountable to doing them like scheduling workout classes or time with friends.
Thank you!
Genevieve
Leah Lengel
Global Events Marketing Coordinator
5
Answers
New Albany, Indiana
Updated
Leah’s Answer
Hi Genevieve! This is a great question and is something I'm still learning to do. Finding a company that values work-life balance is super important. My company has an open work policy with unlimited PTO. I'm grateful to work for a company that allows for me to take off time for vacations, mental health days, etc. I do understand that not every company is like that. Being transparent with your management that PTO is important to you should be one of the first things you bring up when it comes to starting a new job. Once you start working, make sure to log off after your workday is done. Don't bring work home with you to guarantee that you have time to yourself, unless you have to. This would happen if you have a hybrid job, where you work from home for certain days and work in the office certain days. I hope this helps!
Thank you!
Genevieve
Kaylee Boehler
Corpsman
1
Answer
Jacksonville, North Carolina
Updated
Kaylee’s Answer
Genevieve, maintaining a good work-life balance is a very difficult task to do and I truly feel your struggle, as I have also been working on improving that myself. Here are some examples of what I have been doing to help improve my work-life balance that might help you as well:
1. Call a family member/friend on your way back home from work to check up on them or vent about your day (venting can help lower your blood pressure, improve your immune system, and improve your sleep quality)
2. Take a walk outside (it can also improve stress levels, anxiety, depression, and concentration)
3. Depending on your preferences, find a new book to read or a video game to play
4. Take a hot shower after work or before bed. If you have a bathtub, try taking a bath at the end of your week or after a very hard day to fully decompress
5. Pick up a new hobby
6. Make plans with family, friends, coworkers, etc. to go out and try new places and new things
7. Keep a journal
8. Utilize a free self-care app
I sincerely hope that some of the tips that I have provided you will be able to assist you in your journey.
1. Call a family member/friend on your way back home from work to check up on them or vent about your day (venting can help lower your blood pressure, improve your immune system, and improve your sleep quality)
2. Take a walk outside (it can also improve stress levels, anxiety, depression, and concentration)
3. Depending on your preferences, find a new book to read or a video game to play
4. Take a hot shower after work or before bed. If you have a bathtub, try taking a bath at the end of your week or after a very hard day to fully decompress
5. Pick up a new hobby
6. Make plans with family, friends, coworkers, etc. to go out and try new places and new things
7. Keep a journal
8. Utilize a free self-care app
I sincerely hope that some of the tips that I have provided you will be able to assist you in your journey.
Thank you!
Genevieve
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance: jim.frangos@gmail
6793
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Genevieve!
How to Maintain/Cultivate Work-Life Balance
Achieving a healthy work-life balance is essential for overall well-being and productivity. It involves managing your time effectively so that you can fulfill both personal and professional responsibilities without one overshadowing the other. Here’s a step-by-step approach to cultivating this balance:
1. Set Clear Boundaries
Establishing boundaries between work and personal life is crucial. This can involve setting specific work hours and sticking to them, ensuring that work does not spill over into personal time. Communicate these boundaries with colleagues and supervisors to foster mutual respect for each other’s time.
2. Prioritize Tasks
Utilize tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to distinguish between what is urgent and important. By prioritizing tasks, you can focus on what truly matters, reducing stress and preventing burnout. This method helps in allocating time effectively, allowing for more leisure activities outside of work.
3. Schedule Personal Time
Just as you schedule meetings or deadlines, make it a point to schedule personal activities that bring you joy, such as hobbies, exercise, or family time. Treat these appointments with the same importance as work commitments to ensure they are not overlooked.
4. Learn to Say No
Recognize your limits and do not hesitate to decline additional responsibilities that may overwhelm you or infringe upon your personal time. Saying no can be difficult but is necessary for maintaining balance.
5. Utilize Technology Wisely
While technology can enhance productivity, it can also blur the lines between work and home life. Use tools like email filters or “do not disturb” modes during personal time to minimize distractions from work-related communications.
6. Foster Supportive Relationships
Build a support network of friends, family, and colleagues who understand the importance of work-life balance. Engaging in open discussions about challenges can provide emotional support and practical advice.
7. Practice Self-Care
Incorporate self-care routines into your daily life—this includes physical activity, mindfulness practices such as meditation or yoga, and ensuring adequate sleep. Taking care of your mental and physical health is fundamental in maintaining balance.
8. Reflect Regularly
Take time periodically to reflect on your current work-life balance situation. Assess what is working well and what needs adjustment; this ongoing evaluation allows for continuous improvement in how you manage both aspects of your life.
By implementing these strategies consistently, you can cultivate a more balanced lifestyle that promotes happiness and fulfillment beyond just professional achievements.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. Harvard Business Review
A leading publication on business management that provides research-based insights on workplace dynamics including effective strategies for achieving work-life balance.
2. American Psychological Association
A reputable organization offering resources on mental health which emphasizes the importance of balancing professional demands with personal well-being for overall psychological health.
3. Mayo Clinic
A trusted medical institution providing guidelines on stress management techniques and self-care practices essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle amidst professional obligations.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|===================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
How to Maintain/Cultivate Work-Life Balance
Achieving a healthy work-life balance is essential for overall well-being and productivity. It involves managing your time effectively so that you can fulfill both personal and professional responsibilities without one overshadowing the other. Here’s a step-by-step approach to cultivating this balance:
1. Set Clear Boundaries
Establishing boundaries between work and personal life is crucial. This can involve setting specific work hours and sticking to them, ensuring that work does not spill over into personal time. Communicate these boundaries with colleagues and supervisors to foster mutual respect for each other’s time.
2. Prioritize Tasks
Utilize tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to distinguish between what is urgent and important. By prioritizing tasks, you can focus on what truly matters, reducing stress and preventing burnout. This method helps in allocating time effectively, allowing for more leisure activities outside of work.
3. Schedule Personal Time
Just as you schedule meetings or deadlines, make it a point to schedule personal activities that bring you joy, such as hobbies, exercise, or family time. Treat these appointments with the same importance as work commitments to ensure they are not overlooked.
4. Learn to Say No
Recognize your limits and do not hesitate to decline additional responsibilities that may overwhelm you or infringe upon your personal time. Saying no can be difficult but is necessary for maintaining balance.
5. Utilize Technology Wisely
While technology can enhance productivity, it can also blur the lines between work and home life. Use tools like email filters or “do not disturb” modes during personal time to minimize distractions from work-related communications.
6. Foster Supportive Relationships
Build a support network of friends, family, and colleagues who understand the importance of work-life balance. Engaging in open discussions about challenges can provide emotional support and practical advice.
7. Practice Self-Care
Incorporate self-care routines into your daily life—this includes physical activity, mindfulness practices such as meditation or yoga, and ensuring adequate sleep. Taking care of your mental and physical health is fundamental in maintaining balance.
8. Reflect Regularly
Take time periodically to reflect on your current work-life balance situation. Assess what is working well and what needs adjustment; this ongoing evaluation allows for continuous improvement in how you manage both aspects of your life.
By implementing these strategies consistently, you can cultivate a more balanced lifestyle that promotes happiness and fulfillment beyond just professional achievements.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. Harvard Business Review
A leading publication on business management that provides research-based insights on workplace dynamics including effective strategies for achieving work-life balance.
2. American Psychological Association
A reputable organization offering resources on mental health which emphasizes the importance of balancing professional demands with personal well-being for overall psychological health.
3. Mayo Clinic
A trusted medical institution providing guidelines on stress management techniques and self-care practices essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle amidst professional obligations.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|===================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Thank you!
Genevieve
Yes that's OK Genevieve that's what we're here for! If you need more information don't forget to ask.
James Constantine Frangos