Does it ever feel like the lines between work and home life have blurred away? Do you feel like you’re always working but never getting anything done? You’re not alone.
According to a Families and Work Institute study, American employees report working an average of forty-seven hours per week. That’s more than nine hours per day! And for what? The same study found that people who work long hours are no more productive than those who work fewer hours. They’re less effective. This raises the question, how does one improve their work-life balance? Try one of these five tips!
Accept That There is No ‘Perfect’ Work/Life Balance
The first step to improving your work-life balance is accepting that there is no perfect balance. You will always have to make some sacrifices, and that’s okay. The key is finding a balance that works for you and your lifestyle.
Create a Schedule
One way to make sure you’re not working too many hours is to create a schedule and stick to it. Block out specific times of the day for work and personal time, and try not to let work creep into your time.
Set Boundaries with Coworkers
It’s also essential to set boundaries with your coworkers. Let them know when you’re available and when you’re not, and don’t be afraid to say no if they ask for help with something outside of your work hours.
Take Advantage of Technology
Technology can be a great help when balancing work and life. Use tools like Google Calendar or Outlook to schedule appointments and tasks. There are even apps that can track time spent on work-related activities, such as RescueTime.
Find a Job You Love
One of the best ways to improve your work-life balance is to find a job you love. If you’re passionate about your work, you’ll be less likely to resent the time you spend on it. And if you have a job that you hate, consider looking for a new one.
Leave Work at Work
One of the best ways to improve your work-life balance is to leave work at work. Don’t bring your laptop home with you, don’t answer emails after hours, and try not to think about work when you’re not at the office. This will help you create more separation between your personal and professional lives.
Improving your work-life balance isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. Consider following these tips to can create a balance that works for you and make yourself more productive.