Work and Life: Strive for a Harmonious Balance

March 25, 2020

For many people, finding an equilibrium between their career and responsibilities outside the office can be difficult. At Laurie Grengs Counseling, we feel it is important for individuals to strive for a harmonious balance between work and life commitments to attain optimal well-being. Keep reading to understand the benefits of a good work-life balance and some ways to make this concept your reality.

POSITIVE EFFECTS

Finding a middle ground between responsibilities at work and home has positive effects on your physical and mental health. This harmony can help you:

• • Become less vulnerable to workplace burnout. Experiencing occasional tension at work is normal and expected. Habitual on-the-job stress, however, can make you feel overwhelmed and physically or emotionally exhausted. If workplace burnout begins to affect your personal and social activities, it throws off that balance between work and life.
  • Experience fewer health issues. Physical and mental exhaustion affects your immune system. As such, stress plays a significant role in your overall health. Excessive stress can cause ailments that range in severity, from a headache to digestive problems or even a stroke. Be sure to take time outside of work to relax.
  • Be more focused. With a healthy work-life balance comes a greater sense of control, whether at home or at the office. The ability to leave your work where it belongs means your personal time is yours to focus solely on your family and social circle. Likewise, you are better able to concentrate when on the clock because circumstances outside of work are copacetic.

FINDING YOUR BALANCE

Your life need not be all work or all play. Finding a balance between the two is possible and can lead to a healthier and happier outlook. All it takes is some effort to make this concept your reality. Things you can do include:

• • Find a job you enjoy. While you need not love every aspect of your job, look for something you enjoy. You should feel satisfied, not stressed about the work you perform.
  • Prioritize your tasks. Pay attention to which assignments have a shorter deadline and focus on completing those first. Understand your capabilities and limitations and work within those parameters. Do what you can and do it well.
  • Take breaks and vacations. Keep from being tethered to your desk and your work. Take breaks throughout the day or maybe a walk around the building. Also, be sure to request days off for vacation. Time away from your work routine will allow you to re-center and refresh your mind.
  • Take care of yourself. Make sure your mind and body are in fine operating form for both work and play. You can do this by following three basic steps:
    • • Get plenty of rest.
      • Exercise regularly.
      • Eat healthy meals.

Some of these points may seem obvious. However, it is beneficial to remind ourselves of the adjustments we can make to strive for a harmonious balance among our responsibilities. If you feel your work-life balance is askew, Laurie Grengs Counseling can help you understand your personal journey and the adjustments necessary to find that essential stability. Contact us today.