Balance between work, home ensures health
For most people, juggling the demands of career and personal life is an ongoing challenge. When our work life and personal life feel out of balance, stress — with its harmful effects on our health — is the end result. Even in Sandpoint, life can sometimes feel a little too hectic. If it seems like you have too much to do and not enough time to get it all done, here are some ideas to help you find the balance that’s best for you:
• Keep a log. Track everything you do for a week. Eliminate or delegate activities that are unnecessary and you don’t have time for. Talk to your supervisor about your priorities.
• Learn to say no. Whether it’s a co-worker asking you to take on an extra project or your child’s teacher asking you to manage a class play, remember it’s OK to respectfully say no.
• Leave work at work. Make a conscious decision to separate work time from personal time. When with your family, turn off your cell phone and put away your laptop computer.
• Manage your time. Organize household tasks efficiently. Doing one or two loads of laundry every day, rather than saving it all for your day off, is a good place to start. A family calendar of important dates and a daily list of to-dos will help you avoid deadline panic.
• Rethink your cleaning standards. Will an unmade bed or sink of dirty dishes really impact the quality of your life? Do what needs to be done and go easy on yourself about the rest.
• Set aside one night each week for recreation. Rejuvenate yourself by doing things with family or friends, such as kayaking, fishing or playing golf.
• Get enough sleep. Working when you’re sleep-deprived is not only stressful, but it can affect your productivity and can cause you to make costly mistakes.
• Have a support system. Have trusted friends, relatives or co-workers to talk with during times of stress or hardship.
• Seek professional help. If your life feels too chaotic to manage, talk with a professional, such as your doctor, a psychologist or a counselor recommended by your employee assistance program (EAP).
Striking a work-life balance is a continuous process, but well worth the end result — a healthier, happier life!
• Lynda Metz is director of community development at Bonner General Hospital. Information is courtesy of Mayo Clinic’s “Reliable Tools for Healthier Lives” wellness program.