Balancing your Life and Career: the key to Happiness

In search for success, many people have upset the entire balance of their lives so much that even after attaining the success they pursued earnestly, they are still very unhappy. Torn between managing heavy workloads, family life, health care, relationships and many other responsibilities, many of us end up really stressed. Statistics proved that at least one in every four Americans are extremely stressed and that is not healthy at all.

Stress robs you of your ability to think and be productive, it can push you into making costly mistakes in a bid to get things done quickly. Stress causes depression and anxiety. It lowers your immune system, living you susceptible to a host of health problems that could have been avoided. Not only that, it affects your relationship with people, both at work and at home. 

A key foundation in the build-up of a happy and healthy life is balance; being able to give equal attention to every aspect of your life so that no one suffers neglect.

So how can you create a balance in your life, especially when you have a fast-paced career. Well here are some tips that will help you create a balance between your career and your life.

Work Life

Set goals. The more control you have over your work, the less stressed you feel. So set out realistic goals that you can hit at the close of the day, a to-do list to handle important tasks is very necessary. 

Keep to time. Time management is the hallmark of an efficient person. Do not procrastinate on tasks to be done. Divide huge tasks into smaller ones and complete them one after the other. When you finish your work on time, you will have enough time to be with your family or do things that make you happy.

Take periodic breaks. Working for long hours at a stretch increases stress levels exponentially. So little breaks here and there, during work hours is very important. A five minute break from a project, can help clear your head and settle your nerves, leaving you refreshed enough to continue with the work.

Practice effective communication. Learn how to communicate how you feel to your boss or colleagues. Let them know when you feel stressed and suggest alternative ways to do your job to reduce the stress. You are not a robot, so stop pretending that you are fine when you’re clearly not. Don’t complain or nag about your situation, instead give practical alternatives, listen to opinions and compromise where necessary. Getting angry all the time does nothing constructive for your health and relationships. 

Home Life

Unwind. Your home should be a place to unwind from the stress of work. Laugh, rest, eat, play…do what you can to totally relieve yourself from work stress. You deserve your ‘me’ time.

Learn to say NO. Don’t bog yourself down with too many commitments. Learn to say ‘no’ when you been asked to commit your time, especially when you can see that you are stretched thin for time. Saying no is a way to let others know that you are only human and there’s just so much you can do at a time.

Stay healthy. Eat right, exercise regularly and take enough rest. Caring for your body will reduce the rate at which you fall sick. You need to take care of your health if you must be productive and happy. Avoid smoking, drugs and alcohol, they are quick ways to health complications. 

Ask for help. When you notice that the responsibilities are becoming so much and you are feeling really stressed, ask for help. Ask for ways to cut yourself some slack especially at the home front.

With these few tips at work and home, you would be able to create the balance you need for a happier, better life.