Work/Life Balance

We have an attachment to money in our lives whether we like it or not. We are all making a living, working, not-working, mowing lawns, raising children, eating, sleeping and doing it all over again. This all takes money. It all takes work and it all takes a plan.

It is no secret that the typical American is working long hours with little respite compared to other countries with large economies. Full-time employees report an average work week of 47 hours and four out of 10 American workers say they work over 50 hours a week. Americans work an average of 34.4 hours a week, according to data sourced from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), which is longer than the work weeks of nations like the United Kingdom (32.25), Austria (31.33), Canada (32.77), and Germany (26.37).

Use these tips to be more mindful about fully embracing time completely outside of work.

1. Write down your top five priorities that do not have anything to do with work. These priorities are personal and could be anything from spending quality time with your family, to reading two books a month, to working on your tennis swing, or learning to fly fish.
2. Schedule at least one thing to look forward to each day, and then stop trying to multi-task. When you’re doing that thing you look forward to wholeheartedly, whether that’s a round of golf, an activity with kids/grandkids, beer with a friend, or a walk with your spouse, be fully present.
3. Say “no.” Yes, it’s okay to say no sometimes to the external asks from work that require your time after working hours or on the weekend. Say yes to the asks that legitimately interest or inspire you. And, part of saying “no” is setting boundaries.
4. Take a long, hard look at your habits. The basic necessities of good nutrition, enough sleep, and the right exercise are fundamental to feeling balanced.
5. Exercise always. When faced with a busy schedule, exercise is one of the first things to get cut, but it should really be the mainstay—the keystone to a productive, invigorated life. Beyond all the physical benefits, exercise relieves stress and clears the crowded mind.
6. Involve others. Talk with mentors, friends, and family members about where you’re at with balancing work and life. Ask them to share their work-life balance tips and struggles.
7. Meditate. Meditation doesn’t have to be sitting cross legged with eyes closed. Meditation can mean a slow walk through a peaceful environment or a long run or bike ride.
8. Reevaluate your work-life balance often. With changes at work or shifts in commitments outside of work it’s always a good idea to actively reflect on the balance between your work and life and then take steps to evolve your approach to balance.

I hope you and your family can gain the tools for financial and life balance. May we all promise to help the lives for which we are all living, whomever they may be.

Have a fantastic Holiday season, however, you celebrate, and hope you are surrounded with friends and family. 

Cheers, Happy Holidays and see you next year:)