Women today are incredible jugglers. We navigate demanding careers, nurturing families, and personal aspirations, all whilst striving to maintain our health and wellbeing. But let's face it, sometimes achieving work-life balance can feel pretty impossible.
As a busy working mum of a 6-year-old and 2-year-old twins myself, life is hectic to say the least! Maintaining a work-life balance is what keeps me (somewhat) sane. This month is Stress Awareness month, so I'm sharing my 10 key tips to help you manage your time and energy.
1. Define Your "Balance"
Balance isn't a one-size-fits-all concept. What matters most to you? Is it spending time with your family? Pursuing a creative hobby? Prioritise these aspects and build your schedule around them.
2. Master the Art of "No"
Saying no can feel daunting, but it's a crucial skill! Don't be afraid to decline extra work if you're already overloaded. Learn to politely but firmly prioritise your well-being.
3. Embrace Boundaries
Create clear boundaries between your work and personal life. This might involve setting specific work hours, avoiding checking work emails after hours, or establishing a dedicated workspace at home (that’s not in your bedroom!). Make sure you unplug each day! Try putting your phone / laptop in a separate room to where you sleep to help you mentally separate work and home. The blue light from devices disrupts our body’s natural rhythm (circadian rhythm), so try not to look at screens first thing / last thing in the day.
4. Time Management
Become a time management pro! Utilise tools like calendars, planners, and to-do lists to stay organized. There are so many tools and apps out there to help you – so make sure you’re making the most of them. Tick off the simple, quick tasks first and batch similar tasks together for increased efficiency.
Schedule time for both work and personal priorities, treating them with equal importance!
5. Delegate and Ask for Help
We can't do it all, and that's okay! Delegate tasks at work whenever possible. Don't be afraid to get your partner involved with household chores (no matter how unenthusiastic they may be), or explore childcare options that allow you dedicate "me time."
6. Prioritise Self-Care
Self-care isn't selfish, it's essential. Schedule self-care into your daily routine and prioritise it with equal importance to everything else! This could be anything from exercise to reading a good book, writing in a journal, or spending time in nature.
7. Put Your Health First
Your health should always come first! Set time aside in your diary for daily exercise – even if it’s just a 30 minute walk, your body will thank you for it.
When it comes to nutrition, try to eat a balance diet. Set a goal to eat 30 different plants each week (this includes coffee, herbs and spices), as this has been shown to support gut health. Batch cooking is an absolute saviour for time efficiency! Supplements are also a great way to ensure that you’re getting your daily dose of vitamins and minerals.
Sleep is key too! Try to get at least 7 hours sleep each night. For me, Relax & Replenish really helps me to unwind.
8. Reframe Your Thinking
Stop feeling guilty! We’re not superwomen. There will be days when work demands more, and that's okay. Focus on progress, not perfection. It’s easy to get stuck in the “doing” without looking back at how far something has come along. Celebrate small wins and acknowledge your accomplishments.
9. Find Your Support System
Connect with other working women. Sharing experiences, challenges, and successes can be incredibly empowering. Building a supportive network can provide valuable advice, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.
10. Take a Break
Schedule breaks into your working day. Don’t feel guilty about being unavailable in that time! Studies have found that breaks can reduce or prevent stress, help to maintain performance throughout the day and reduce the need for a long recovery at the end of the day. Getting some fresh air and a change of scene during your lunch break will help prevent that afternoon slump.
Hopefully these tips will help you prioritise your needs and create a work-life balance that works for you.
Jennie x
