Open Your Mind to a Spring Awakening with these Three Tips

Does it feel as if you’re in a constant battle trying to find the secret to a successful work-life balance plan? If so, you’re certainly not alone. 

Many of my clients are “hyper-achievers” struggling with packed schedules and never-ending priorities that put them in a constant state of stress and anxiety. They tend to end most of their days feeling completely drained and feeling as if they’re riding an endless treadmill while missing out on life’s most important milestones. 

Do these feelings resonate with you? 

Below, I will guide you through three important steps to help open your mind to a happier, healthier, and more connected lifestyle. 

1. Reduce Your Stress 

Easier said than done, right? Fortunately, reducing stress does not have to feel like a foreign concept. 

 

Try taking intermittent breaks throughout your workday. When you continuously push yourself 8-12 hours straight, you’re actually making yourself less productive. Tony Schwarts of the Energy Project has found that humans should have intense periods of focus for up to 90 minutes then take time to rejuvenate. 

Ask yourself: what activities make me feel the most confident, comfortable, and/or relaxed? 

What if you took one hour per day to catch up with old friends? Meditate? Maybe even take a walk with a colleague? 

Once you have something in mind, be sure to block it out on your calendar, and make it happen!

Making time for youself is NOT selfish.

 2. Proactively Reach Out to Friends, Family and Colleagues

 Reach out to a friend, family member or former colleague that you have not spoken to in a long time…and yes, it can even be a friend from 20 years ago. 

 

Reaching out to a childhood best friend 10 years ago was one of the best decisions I have ever made, and many of my clients have done the same during the pandemic with heartwarming stories and positive feelings about their renewed connections. 

Ask yourself: is there someone I wish I had stayed in contact with? 

Are you missing somone who, at one time, really had an impact on your life? There are so many ways to get in touch these days. 

What do you have to lose?

3. Consciously Change Your Routine for an Effective Work/Life Balance

Change your routine to create a balance that works for you. Evaluate your to-do list with realistic timelines and delegate where you can. Learn to say ‘no’ and remember your priorities. 

Give yourself permission to articulate your needs and don’t feel guilty about it. You can empower your team to engage in getting the job done. 

Educate yourself on flexible scheduling methods.

Ask yourself: what changes can I make at work to increase my flexibility and achieve work/life balance to feel good about my choices.

Take charge of your life. You deserve to have fun, take care of your health, and be happy while maintaining your fast-paced professional career.