According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than 40% of Americans say that work is extremely stressful for them. Building a better work-life balance can often be tough. However, here are 5 simple steps you can take to reduce stress, spend more time doing what you love, and improve your health by building a better work-life balance.
5 Simple Steps for Building a Better Work-Life Balance
1. Prioritize
It can be easy to waste time doing mindless tasks and leave important work to be done at the last minute. This can add lots of undue stress! Make a schedule and use time-tracking tools to set aside blocks of time dedicated to working, friends, social life, etc. More importantly, stick to it!
2. Limit Electronics
Working from home or always having a smartphone handy can make you feel like you’re constantly at work. Instead, resist looking at your phone to check work e-mails during non-work hours. Consider avoiding screen time on your computer before bed. Enjoy the moment with your friends and family.
3. Exercise
Exercise has been shown to help reduce tension, boost feel-good endorphins, and help you relax and unwind. Don’t let a busy schedule stop you from exercising. Set aside a minimum of 30 minutes daily for exercise to reap the many stress-reducing benefits.
4. Stop Putting Pressure on Yourself
Those with perfectionistic tendencies may feel they have to put pressure on themselves to consistently excel at work. Know that you are deserving of love even if you’re not perfect at work, and practice positive affirmations to do so!
5. Practice More Self-Care
Find time to fit enjoyable activities into your day. Whether it is a spa, gardening, or yoga, practicing self-care decreases stress and makes you a priority!
Here is a helpful post on self-care.
Practical Ways To Practice Self-Care
Try this fun quiz to learn more about your self-care status.
Erin Gull is Axiom’s Content Marketing Specialist. She brings over 10 years of writing experience creating copy for print and digital mediums across diverse disciplines in both the B2B and B2C space.