The holidays are over, we're all back to work, and already many of us are probably feeling pretty overwhelmed by our responsibilities. While it's common to feel stressed by work and everything else going on in our lives, the economic downturn has added additional pressure, with some people being forced to take on second (or even third) jobs to make ends meet, while others have seen their work duties stretched to the limit because of layoffs. In short, we're all maxed out, with little time left for our families or home life.
But as the saying goes, "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy," and focusing merely on work is a surefire way to experience career burnout. Plus, nobody should miss out on priceless quality time with their loved ones, no matter how busy things are at the office. Spending time with family members and friends, indulging in leisure activities, or just taking a much-needed break and unwinding can also help workers recharge their batteries, so to speak, give them valuable perspective, and have a healthy outlook on life.
But as the saying goes, "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy," and focusing merely on work is a surefire way to experience career burnout. Plus, nobody should miss out on priceless quality time with their loved ones, no matter how busy things are at the office. Spending time with family members and friends, indulging in leisure activities, or just taking a much-needed break and unwinding can also help workers recharge their batteries, so to speak, give them valuable perspective, and have a healthy outlook on life.
Set limits. Be realistic about what you can and can't handle. Overloading yourself with commitments and saying "yes" to everything will only result in you feeling overwhelmed and frustrated, and possibly disappointing those to whom you've made promises. Only take on projects that you can realistically manage without burning out.
Tune out. With the advent of iPhones and Blackberries, so many of us wind up constantly checking our email or taking phone calls during dinner. While work emergencies and last-minute deals can arise, it's important to do your best to be "unplugged" for at least part of your evening and weekends. Don't be the one at the school play who never looks up from their PDA!
Book some "me" time. Picking up a hobby or signing up for a class can enrich your life while giving you a regular scheduled break from work. It's easy to blow off the gym or reading a book when you're on your own, but taking part in a regimented (and paid for) weekly cooking class or book group will make you less likely to do so. Plus, it's fun! Just be wary of filling your free time with too many hobbies or engagements—after a while, too much leisure can feel like too much work.
See how you can improve your work life. To put your health, sanity and family first, explore opportunities to make positive changes at the workplace. For some, that could mean urging your company to offer a nearby daycare facility. Some companies also offer employees massages to keep them happy, while others are flexible on letting employees work from home one day a week. You could also work with your boss on prioritizing your workload so that you waste less time on unimportant projects. You may also realize that a change in career is best for you and your family.
The bottom line is that creating a balance between your work and home lives is the healthiest and happiest option. By giving yourself some crucial relaxation time and some priceless moments with family and friends, you'll feel less stressed and will be more likely to come to work refreshed and recharged.
Juanita Ecker, President of Professional Image Management, is a corporate trainer in business etiquette, professional image and telephone manners. She can be reached by
e-mail at image3@nycap.rr.com or via the web at www.professionalimagemgt.com©2007 Professional Image Management
Juanita Ecker, president of Professional Image Management, is a corporate image and business etiquette consultant. She can be reached by phone at (518) 279-9388 or online at www.professionalimagemanagement.com.