Work-life balance doesn’t just happen. It is challenging to juggle the demands of your job and the rest of your life. However, creating the appropriate balance for you will bring more control and enjoyment to your life.
Adopting one or more of the tips below may help:
- As you leave for work in the morning, try to think about the rewarding activities that you intend to do that day. Allow yourself to be aware of the difference you make in your patients’ and colleagues’ lives.
- Carve out time to accomplish the essential tasks that you need to do that day including paperwork, patient follow-up, patient care and any other responsibilities. Good time management will contribute to your feeling more in charge of your time.
- When you leave the hospital, try turning off your smartphone for the rest of the day (if you are not on call), and as you drive home think of three things that you feel good about from the day. And keep in mind, smartphones are not only a distraction in the daytime; the light from the screen can also interfere with sleep.
- When you get home, change out of your work clothes, take a shower and focus on transitioning out of work mode and spending time being with people and doing things you enjoy.
- Plan special activities for the weekend or when you have time off. Having something enjoyable to look forward to improves mood and can make the week go faster.
- Consider delegating activities that others can do for you, such as hiring someone to clean your home and do outside household chores, or having your groceries delivered.
- Make time for self-care such as exercising, hobbies or other personally enjoyable activities. Remember that it is OK to do something simply because you enjoy it.
- Spend time with family and friends. Close relationships at work and at home improves well-being and reduces burnout.
- Take vacations. It is important to recharge your batteries on a regular basis.