Work schedules, families, and relationships are only some of the factors that contribute to the push and pull of the so-called work-life balance.
When the balance is off, things don't feel good at home or work. Without time and energy on restoring order, this mismatch will quickly lead to stress, instability, agitation, or total burnout.
If you feel overworked, but are not sure if your work-life balance is to blame, keep an eye out for these signs of an out-of-whack balance.
You Can't Resist Reading Your Emails during downtime
Are you guilty of not being able to stop reading your inbox after working hours? If you find yourself reading your office email or WhatsApp updates during a night out with friends or a family holiday, you're encouraging work to take over your personal space. Not only is it insensitive to those who take the time to see you, but it also doesn't allow you to live in a moment and simply enjoy the company of your loved ones.
You're Talking about Work Outside Work Hours
When you prioritize work over your personal life, it becomes part of the conversation. From chatting about your job obligations with colleagues to discussing your work environment with your family, it's certainly time to re-analyze your priorities when you start talking about work, even when work is done. The only reason you'd talk about work too much is if it's on your mind all the time. There is obviously a serious imbalance between work and personal life.
You Don't Remember the Last Time You Gave Time to Your Hobbies
When was the last time you sat down to read a book or took part in a culinary class? When work takes over our whole lives, it doesn't only affect our personal relationships, but it also causes us to compromise on the much needed 'me time' that supports us in our personal wellbeing.
You're Struggling with Your Relationships
When we let work become our highest priority, life often becomes a matter of wasting much of our time doing office-related work. Obviously, this adds to a reduction in the time we spend with our families and friends. In addition, since we are so concerned with jobs, we are unable to meet the emotional needs of our loved ones. Over time, the relationship will build resentment and conflict.
Find the Balance
To be able to correct the imbalance, you need to recognize that you have caused your professional career to take away your personal life. If this is what's going on, it's time for a reset.
