8 answers
Zamaria
Student
1
Question
Asked
293 views
What does my ideal work-life balance look like?
I don’t have many
Login to comment
8 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1354
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
HEALTHY WORK-LIFE BALANCE
None of us is superhuman, and giving 200 percent at work will result in slip-ups in other areas of our lives. Of course, succeeding at work is important, but we’ve got only one life to live. We shouldn’t sacrifice our personal lives or our health to get ahead professionally.
AT WORK
• SET MANAGEABLE GOALS EVERY DAY — Being able to meet priorities helps us feel a sense of accomplishment and control. So be realistic about workloads and deadlines. Make a “to do” list, and take care of important tasks first and eliminate unessential ones. Ask for help when necessary.
• BE EFFICIENT WITH YOUR WORK TIME —
When we procrastinate, the task often grows in our minds until it seems insurmountable. So when you face a big project at work or home, start by dividing it into smaller tasks. Complete the first one before moving on to the next. If you feel overwhelmed by routines that seem unnecessary, tell your boss. The less time you spend doing busy work or procrastinating, the more time you can spend productively, or with friends or family.
• COMMUNICATE EFFECTIVELY — Be honest with colleagues or your boss when you feel you’re in a bind. Chances are, you’re not alone. But don’t just complain—suggest practical alternatives. Looking at a situation from someone else’s viewpoint can also reduce your stress. In a tense situation, either rethink your strategy or stand your ground, calmly and rationally. Make allowances for other opinions, and compromise. Retreat before you lose control, and allow time for all involved to cool off. You’ll be better equipped to handle the problem constructively later.
AT HOME
• UNPLUG — The same technology that makes it so easy for workers to do their jobs flexibly can also burn us out if we use them 24/7. By all means, make yourself available—especially if you’ve earned the right to “flex” your hours—but recognize the need for personal time, too.
• DON'T OVER COMMIT — Do you feel stressed when you just glance at your calendar? If you’re overscheduled with activities, learn to say,” no.” Make sure responsibilities at home are evenly distributed and clearly outlined—you’ll avoid confusion and problems later.
• STAY ACTIVE — Aside from its well-known physical benefits, regular exercise reduces stress, depression and anxiety, and enables people to better cope with adversity, according to researchers. It’ll also boost your immune system and keep you out of the doctor’s office. Make time in your schedule for the gym or to take a walk during lunch—and have some fun.
• TREAT YOUR BODY RIGHT — Being in good shape physically increases your tolerance to stress and reduces sick days. Eat right, exercise and get adequate rest. Don’t rely on drugs, alcohol or cigarettes to cope with stress; they’ll only lead to more problems.
• GET HELP IF YOU NEED IT — Don’t let stress stand in the way of your health and happiness. If you are persistently overwhelmed, it may be time to seek help from a mental health professional. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness—taking care of yourself is a sign of strength.
None of us is superhuman, and giving 200 percent at work will result in slip-ups in other areas of our lives. Of course, succeeding at work is important, but we’ve got only one life to live. We shouldn’t sacrifice our personal lives or our health to get ahead professionally.
AT WORK
• SET MANAGEABLE GOALS EVERY DAY — Being able to meet priorities helps us feel a sense of accomplishment and control. So be realistic about workloads and deadlines. Make a “to do” list, and take care of important tasks first and eliminate unessential ones. Ask for help when necessary.
• BE EFFICIENT WITH YOUR WORK TIME —
When we procrastinate, the task often grows in our minds until it seems insurmountable. So when you face a big project at work or home, start by dividing it into smaller tasks. Complete the first one before moving on to the next. If you feel overwhelmed by routines that seem unnecessary, tell your boss. The less time you spend doing busy work or procrastinating, the more time you can spend productively, or with friends or family.
• COMMUNICATE EFFECTIVELY — Be honest with colleagues or your boss when you feel you’re in a bind. Chances are, you’re not alone. But don’t just complain—suggest practical alternatives. Looking at a situation from someone else’s viewpoint can also reduce your stress. In a tense situation, either rethink your strategy or stand your ground, calmly and rationally. Make allowances for other opinions, and compromise. Retreat before you lose control, and allow time for all involved to cool off. You’ll be better equipped to handle the problem constructively later.
AT HOME
• UNPLUG — The same technology that makes it so easy for workers to do their jobs flexibly can also burn us out if we use them 24/7. By all means, make yourself available—especially if you’ve earned the right to “flex” your hours—but recognize the need for personal time, too.
• DON'T OVER COMMIT — Do you feel stressed when you just glance at your calendar? If you’re overscheduled with activities, learn to say,” no.” Make sure responsibilities at home are evenly distributed and clearly outlined—you’ll avoid confusion and problems later.
• STAY ACTIVE — Aside from its well-known physical benefits, regular exercise reduces stress, depression and anxiety, and enables people to better cope with adversity, according to researchers. It’ll also boost your immune system and keep you out of the doctor’s office. Make time in your schedule for the gym or to take a walk during lunch—and have some fun.
• TREAT YOUR BODY RIGHT — Being in good shape physically increases your tolerance to stress and reduces sick days. Eat right, exercise and get adequate rest. Don’t rely on drugs, alcohol or cigarettes to cope with stress; they’ll only lead to more problems.
• GET HELP IF YOU NEED IT — Don’t let stress stand in the way of your health and happiness. If you are persistently overwhelmed, it may be time to seek help from a mental health professional. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness—taking care of yourself is a sign of strength.
Alex Porter Walsh, MPA
Program Coordinator, Community Impact
1
Answer
Houston, Texas
Updated
Alex’s Answer
For us, work-life balance looks like / things to consider:
- Having a challenging job, but not so stressful so that you cannot "unplug" after hours
- Being able to manage relationships at work to where you can make the transition from work to after-work life
- Being able to work on your personal skills and be able to work with a variety of personalities
- Being able to take time off, and not continue to look at work emails, etc.
- Having a manager who is supportive of you finding that balance too
- The choice of employer has a significant impact on how easy it will be to find a work-life balance
- Being able to work remotely at times when needed
- Making sure to invest in hobbies and relationships outside of work
* Response written by 3 team members at Hewlett Packard Enterprise
- Having a challenging job, but not so stressful so that you cannot "unplug" after hours
- Being able to manage relationships at work to where you can make the transition from work to after-work life
- Being able to work on your personal skills and be able to work with a variety of personalities
- Being able to take time off, and not continue to look at work emails, etc.
- Having a manager who is supportive of you finding that balance too
- The choice of employer has a significant impact on how easy it will be to find a work-life balance
- Being able to work remotely at times when needed
- Making sure to invest in hobbies and relationships outside of work
* Response written by 3 team members at Hewlett Packard Enterprise
Mercy Aderogba 🟢
Teacher
2
Answers
Ilaro, OG
Updated
Mercy’s Answer
Zamaria, your ideal work-life balance might involve dedicating time to activities that bring you joy and fulfillment outside of work, such as hobbies, spending time with loved ones, relaxation, and personal growth. It's important to find a balance that aligns with your priorities and allows you to thrive both professionally and personally, even if you don't have many activities currently in your life.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3916
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Zamaria,
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: YOUR TIME-SAVING ALLY
The Perfect Balance Between Work and Life
The perfect balance between work and life is a unique and personal journey that depends on individual priorities, values, and circumstances. However, certain elements are universally beneficial to maintaining a healthy balance:
Flexible Work Schedules: The ability to modify your work hours to fit personal commitments or preferences can significantly improve your work-life balance. This could involve options like working from home, flexible hours, or condensed work weeks.
Defined Boundaries: It's essential to draw a clear line between work and personal life. This involves disconnecting from work during your off time and dedicating uninterrupted quality time to activities outside of work.
Supportive Work Atmosphere: A work environment that prioritizes employee well-being and fosters a healthy work culture can greatly enhance work-life balance. This includes policies that promote breaks, vacations, and mental health support.
Regular Exercise and Self-Care: Prioritizing your physical and mental health through regular exercise, mindfulness practices, hobbies, or other self-care activities can help sustain a balanced lifestyle.
Efficient Time Management: Building strong time management skills to prioritize tasks, set achievable goals, and prevent burnout is key to maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life.
Quality Relationships: Cultivating and maintaining relationships with family, friends, and colleagues can offer emotional support and fulfillment outside of work, contributing to overall well-being.
Continuous Learning and Growth: Participating in personal development opportunities, learning new skills, or pursuing hobbies and interests outside of work can bring additional meaning and satisfaction to life beyond professional duties.
Regular Reflection: Regularly reflecting on your priorities, values, and goals can help you reassess your work-life balance and make necessary adjustments to align with what truly matters to you.
In conclusion, the perfect work-life balance is about creating harmony between professional duties and personal well-being. This involves prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, nurturing supportive relationships, managing time efficiently, and continually evaluating what brings fulfillment in both areas of life.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review
World Health Organization (WHO)
Forbes
BLESSINGS TO YOU!
James Constantine Frangos.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: YOUR TIME-SAVING ALLY
The Perfect Balance Between Work and Life
The perfect balance between work and life is a unique and personal journey that depends on individual priorities, values, and circumstances. However, certain elements are universally beneficial to maintaining a healthy balance:
Flexible Work Schedules: The ability to modify your work hours to fit personal commitments or preferences can significantly improve your work-life balance. This could involve options like working from home, flexible hours, or condensed work weeks.
Defined Boundaries: It's essential to draw a clear line between work and personal life. This involves disconnecting from work during your off time and dedicating uninterrupted quality time to activities outside of work.
Supportive Work Atmosphere: A work environment that prioritizes employee well-being and fosters a healthy work culture can greatly enhance work-life balance. This includes policies that promote breaks, vacations, and mental health support.
Regular Exercise and Self-Care: Prioritizing your physical and mental health through regular exercise, mindfulness practices, hobbies, or other self-care activities can help sustain a balanced lifestyle.
Efficient Time Management: Building strong time management skills to prioritize tasks, set achievable goals, and prevent burnout is key to maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life.
Quality Relationships: Cultivating and maintaining relationships with family, friends, and colleagues can offer emotional support and fulfillment outside of work, contributing to overall well-being.
Continuous Learning and Growth: Participating in personal development opportunities, learning new skills, or pursuing hobbies and interests outside of work can bring additional meaning and satisfaction to life beyond professional duties.
Regular Reflection: Regularly reflecting on your priorities, values, and goals can help you reassess your work-life balance and make necessary adjustments to align with what truly matters to you.
In conclusion, the perfect work-life balance is about creating harmony between professional duties and personal well-being. This involves prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, nurturing supportive relationships, managing time efficiently, and continually evaluating what brings fulfillment in both areas of life.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review
World Health Organization (WHO)
Forbes
BLESSINGS TO YOU!
James Constantine Frangos.
Paola Lubs
Customer Experience Manager
3
Answers
Belgium
Updated
Paola’s Answer
Time management will be key here, but put your own personal life as the first priority as your work life will be lasting for decades.
Ana Carina Pena
BA International Business
7
Answers
Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico
Updated
Ana Carina’s Answer
Dear Zamaria,
I trust you're doing well. The concept of work-life balance can be quite subjective and personal.
I like to think of it in terms of seasons. There might be periods, or 'seasons', when the demands of work or school are exceedingly high, requiring you to prioritize the tasks and projects you're handling. However, there may also be 'seasons' when your workload lessens.
My advice is to maximize your productivity during your work or school hours, while ensuring you take time for meals and rest.
It's crucial to recognize the importance of both our personal and professional lives. From my perspective, achieving a balanced life involves setting manageable short-term goals, maintaining your health, and organizing your work effectively.
Best regards.
I trust you're doing well. The concept of work-life balance can be quite subjective and personal.
I like to think of it in terms of seasons. There might be periods, or 'seasons', when the demands of work or school are exceedingly high, requiring you to prioritize the tasks and projects you're handling. However, there may also be 'seasons' when your workload lessens.
My advice is to maximize your productivity during your work or school hours, while ensuring you take time for meals and rest.
It's crucial to recognize the importance of both our personal and professional lives. From my perspective, achieving a balanced life involves setting manageable short-term goals, maintaining your health, and organizing your work effectively.
Best regards.
Tom Clement
Manage a training business
8
Answers
Wiscasset, Maine
Updated
Tom’s Answer
Maintaining a healthy work/life balance means you can indulge in activities you love, while also fulfilling your professional obligations. Work should not consume your entire life. It's wonderful to have an employer that offers the flexibility to balance both your professional tasks and your personal interests.
When selecting a career, it's crucial to consider the work-life balance it offers. Remember, the perfect work-life balance varies from person to person. What suits "me" may not necessarily suit "you", and that's perfectly okay.
Here's a nugget of wisdom: when you are at home, disconnect from work and immerse yourself in your hobbies and passions. When you are in an office setting, concentrate on your work assignments and outcomes. If your workspace is at home, blend these two aspects as required, depending on the day.
When selecting a career, it's crucial to consider the work-life balance it offers. Remember, the perfect work-life balance varies from person to person. What suits "me" may not necessarily suit "you", and that's perfectly okay.
Here's a nugget of wisdom: when you are at home, disconnect from work and immerse yourself in your hobbies and passions. When you are in an office setting, concentrate on your work assignments and outcomes. If your workspace is at home, blend these two aspects as required, depending on the day.
Leïla Oualha Hansen, MBA
Delivery Manager
6
Answers
Tunis, Tunisia
Updated
Leïla’s Answer
This response is crafted by a team:
1- Guidelines: Establish clear lines between your personal and professional life.
2- Primarily utilize your laptop for work tasks, and try to limit work-related apps on your phone. You can keep the apps, but consider turning off notifications.
3- Fully immerse yourself in your work when you're on the clock. When you're off duty, shift your attention to your personal life.
4- Take control of your schedule by setting aside personal time for meals and periods of concentrated work.
1- Guidelines: Establish clear lines between your personal and professional life.
2- Primarily utilize your laptop for work tasks, and try to limit work-related apps on your phone. You can keep the apps, but consider turning off notifications.
3- Fully immerse yourself in your work when you're on the clock. When you're off duty, shift your attention to your personal life.
4- Take control of your schedule by setting aside personal time for meals and periods of concentrated work.