When it Comes to Work-Life Balance, We Are what We Think
Your thought processes directly affect how you view the world and how you create your existence in relation to it.
One area where this truth becomes keenly self-evident lies in work-life balance. Our ability to create such a balance heavily depends on first identifying what that balance would look like, and then thinking through each step to find it.
Understandably, no one-size-fits-all approach exists to achieve a balance between your life and your work. If you are fortunate, your work becomes a natural, organic part of your ideal life, requiring minimal effort to balance. For many, however, finding a compromise between the work you do to support yourself and the life that makes it all worthwhile can be a challenge.
The Process Of Establishing A Work-Life Balance
Begin with a consideration of your existence and an exploration of self. Then, during these moments of self-reflection, ask yourself questions such as:
- What does work-life balance mean to me?
- What is my existence worth?
- How do I measure the enjoyment of my existence?
The key to enjoying your existence lies in filling your life with pursuits you find personally fulfilling and meaningful.
Identify Activities, People, and Experiences that Provide Fulfillment
This may include something as simple as enjoying a sunset with a loved one, or as dynamic as completing a year-long project at work. Focus on why you enjoy these and fill your life with similar activities that provide fulfillment.
Kind Methods to Find Balance
Love who you are – flaws and all
Acceptance-of-self and the ability to find beauty in your imperfections can help you take the same approach to everything around you. Once you accept yourself and your current state and surroundings, you can create the reality you long for.
Reach out to family and friends
Often, the people in our lives are the why of our existence. Expand the why into the when, where and how to make the most of your connection to each person – to give and receive support.
Look for joy in the present moment
Whether it’s the thrill of excitement at finding a new book by a favorite author, or the joy of an unexpected compliment from your boss, make the most of those little things that feed your innermost cravings. Being mindful in the moment can help you appreciate all of the good things in your life.
Find Balance in Doing
When you find chances to appreciate life in all its aspects, no matter where you are and what you are doing, work-life balance becomes a reality. Therefore, you’ll no longer struggle to meet a seemingly ambiguous or distant “goal” every day. Instead, you’ll be able to trust your inner self and feel the goal solidify on a daily basis.
For example, you might decide to stay late at work one evening to finish a project. Then, the next day you might skip a work function to help a friend move. Either way, each option provides value to your life, as long as it contributes to your life purpose.
Given that you do not berate yourself for prioritizing one activity over another, you will begin to see how each day brings novelty and excitement through the little things.
Ultimately, once you start using your thought processes to find joy everywhere, those thoughts will manifest a balance in your life – at work, at home, and with the people you love.
