by Phillip Ramphisa
Work is a big deal. We spend 45 hours at work a week compared to 16 hours that we spend with family on weekends. Because work brings in the cash, it is easy to get carried away and forget other elements of our lives. In this article I would like to provide you with three ways to balance work with life and lead a healthy life.
It is important to re-examine your beliefs about what a balanced work life environment should look like because no matter what I teach you in this article, I will not get through to you if you believe work is everything. There are different belief systems that people hold when it comes to work-life balance. Some people believe it is something worthy to strive for, others believe work comes first and is everything. There is nothing for me to share, if you really do not believe in work-life balance. Assuming that you believe in a healthy work-life balance. Here are my three tips for achieving a healthy work-life balance:
(I) Set goals outside your work environment
We live busy lives, especially if we work or even worse are self-employed. Nothing gets done unless we consciously make an effort to do it. In order to have a healthy work-life balance you need to intend to have a healthy work life balance. Set goals outside your work. Are there any interests, or hobbies that motivate you enough to set goals outside work? Does family motivate you enough to set goals outside of your work? maybe you would love to join a runners club or play guitar or learn to dance. Whatever it is that you have interest to do outside your work place, set goals for it. Aim for instance to spend time with family and friends every two weeks, or to go for a run every Thursday morning. Set goals because what we set goals towards, gets done.
(II) Be honest to colleagues about your goals
Be honest to your colleagues or business partners about your goals, in that way when they set meetings or work activities they will be more aware about your needs. When your colleagues know you come in a bit late every Thursday because that is the time you go for your runs, then they are most likely to accommodate you during the scheduling of work meetings or other work activities. Your goals outside work should be public to your colleagues in that way you do not have conflict.
(III) Decentralise control in your work environment
Without people to help you with what you are doing at work, it will be impossible to attain a healthy work life balance. Find trusted people who are aligned with you that you can work with. Train them enough to leave work responsibilities to them. If you do this, you will free your time. If you do not train subordinates, you will need to always face your work responsibilities without down time – no work-life balance for you. Most businesses are a 24 hour affair unless you are earning passive income.
Remember to remain inspired, to move all obstacles standing in the way of your success and do not dare give up on yourself or your goals.
About the author
Phillip Ramphisa is the most sought after South African Motivational Speaker and Philanthropist. He helps people and organisations achieve their goals faster than they thought possible. His life mission is to end suffering and help people thrive in their lives. Phillip speak in conferences and events. To contact him please visit http://www.phillipramphisa.com
