In today’s fast-paced world, juggling the demands of work and life can feel like a constant dance. However, achieving that elusive balance is not just a luxury, it is a necessity for our well-being, productivity, and happiness. When one falls off this delicate balance, the effects can be felt across all aspects of life – and can be plainly visible to those around us.
What causes one to lose work-life balance?
- Technological advancements that have enabled the cause and have blurred the lines between work and personal life such as long working hours and flexible work arrangements like working from home or working from anywhere
- Expectations from others to prioritize work
- Crunch time anxiety and finish line fatigue
- Overload of work and deadlines
At IFS, I’ve come to understand that achieving work-life balance isn’t a one-size-fits-all formula. It’s a personal journey of self-discovery, where we explore and find what works best for us. Here are some important steps that have helped me successfully navigate this balancing act:
1. Communication is king (or queen!). Talking openly with colleagues, managers, and teams is crucial. Sharing workload concerns, politely declining unnecessary commitments, and setting clear boundaries around your time are all essential.
2. Draw the line between work and personal time. Defining your working hours and sticking to them is key. Resist the urge to check emails or answer calls outside those hours. Even small breaks can make a big difference. But remember, there might be occasional exceptions that require extra effort – treat them as temporary blips in your rhythm.
3. Embrace the power of support. We’re not alone in this! Seek help from colleagues, utilize resources like communities such as JARVIS and IFS Community, the IFS Health and Well-being Group, and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance when needed.
4. Prioritize your well-being. Make time for activities that nourish your mind and body. Whether it’s my daily journaling ritual or those thrice-weekly workouts, these personal pursuits are non-negotiable. I have realized that a healthy me is a happy and productive me, both at work and at home. (Image below: My Journals)
5. Spark your passions. Hobbies are more than just distractions; they are vital for mental balance and fulfillment. Whether it’s blasting tunes on the radio or diving into articles about dinosaurs, galaxies and other prehistorical themes, these activities help me unwind and recharge.
6. Connect and celebrate. Nurturing relationships with family and friends is essential. Plan outings, game nights, or simply cherish quality time. These connections are the anchor that keeps us grounded and remind us of what truly matters.
Remember, work-life balance is a journey, not a destination. There will be days when the juggling act feels impossible, but that’s okay! The key is to keep practicing, learning, and striving for that sweet spot where your values, work and life dance in perfect harmony. That’s why IFS is an ideal workplace for you to be in!
SOURCE: Rukshan, T. (2023, December 29). Work-Life Balance: From the eyes of a Software Engineer. IFS Blog. https://blog.ifs.com/2023/12/work-life-balance-from-the-eyes-of-a-software-engineer/
