Is one of your goals to find better work/life balance this year? If you’re like most people, you may find that your life is either all work or all play. This is particularly true for women, who are often left juggling kids, family concerns, friends, and work.
Luckily, there are plenty of ways you can take back control and gain better balance this year. Here are just a few:
Highlight Organisation
Without solid organisation, it’s impossible to have the right work/life balance. One of the best things you can do is sync calendars and spend an hour every Sunday ensuring everyone is on the same page.
This will prevent you from dealing with sudden issues like missed recitals or confusion around who’s picking up the kids from their playdate. Spend time each night packing school bags and school lunches, laying out uniforms or clothes for school, and checking everyone has completed their homework. Choose your own work outfit, and you’ll find that the next day is much more relaxed.
Hire some help
There are plenty of people hoping to find a household staff job, but for busy mums and dads, hiring staff can make a massive difference to your level of happiness and your work/life balance. Whether you need an after-school nanny for the kids, a housekeeper to help keep everything running smoothly, a gardener to take the job off your hands, or a chef to make sure everyone is getting the nutrition they need and spending time together eating as a family.
Take time for yourself
It’s easy to get wrapped up in the kids, especially if you suffer from working mother’s (or father’s) guilt. While it can be difficult to step away and take time for yourself, there’s a reason why the flight attendants tell parents to put their own life jacket on first- you can’t help others unless you’re helping yourself.
Whether it’s a long hot bath with a glass of wine after work, a massage in the weekend, or drinks out with your friends, taking time for yourself is crucial, and allows you to be mentally ready for whatever your family and work throw at you.
Create good relationships
You may feel like you’re too busy for new friends, but it’s easy to get wrapped up in day-to-day life and then realise that your friends have moved on while you’ve been changing nappies and attending meetings. Prioritise the friendships in your life, and take the help when it’s offered.
What are your tips for finding work/life balance? Leave a comment below and let me know.