We often fail to see how the mental, physical or emotional demands of our jobs drain us of the energy to live, experience and enjoy other parts of our lives. I think it is important that we guard against this.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>Me<\/cite><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The other half of this equation is doing things outside of work that gives us joy. I\u2019m an avid hobbyist and over the years I have tried my hands at many things, from drawing and painting, to sewing, to jewellery making. I\u2019m currently in my pottery phase. I have also become a plant mum (yes, this is a thing and now I totally get why people fuss over their plants!) and I\u2019m working on improving my piano playing. These activities bring me a lot of pleasure and a sense of achievement on a daily basis. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2018The goal is to stop chasing weekends and build a life I don\u2019t need a break from\u2019<\/em><\/strong><\/p>Unknown<\/cite><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n

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One doesn\u2019t need to make significant changes, to start to tilt the scales in favour of a better work life balance. Here are three small changes you can make, to help you achieve a better work-life balance:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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1. Understand and prioritise what is important to you: <\/strong>Do you know what ingredients you require in your day to day life to make your life satisfying or fulfilling? It may be starting a new hobby, spending more time with your loved ones or taking better care of yourself by eating healthier and exercising. Whatever it may be for you, figure out how you can adjust your daily or weekly routine to give you more of this in your life. Make it a goal and dedicate the same level of commitment to it as you would a work project. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
2. Set clear boundaries between work and personal life: <\/strong>Have clearly defined work hours and try not to let work spill into your personal hours. For example, you could start by committing to finishing on time on two out of the five work days each week. A much more achievable goal than aiming to do so five days a week right off the bat. Start small and experience success. Once you\u2019ve managed this consistently, then challenge yourself to increase the number of days you finish on time. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
3. Learn to ask for help:<\/strong> How often do we place unhelpful expectations of ourselves that only serve to make our lives more stressful? Or we get trapped in this image of perfectionism – of being superman or superwoman to our families, friends or colleagues, and we end up suffering in silence? Try and let go of some of these; talk to someone and ask for help.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n
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