So, we’re in this new year and some of us have set numerous goals, decided what we’re going to do differently this year, and believe that this is going to be our best year yet. While we have great intentions and ideas on how we plan to implement, we may find ourselves struggling along the way.
The question becomes, why? Oftentimes, our lack of balance is the culprit. Balance can be described as a system, process, method or manner in which we prevent being weighed down by any one aspect of our life. Balance can also be described as our stability or composure in the midst of life events. When you think of balance, try to picture a balance scale. When we are out of balance, we may find that one of our scales is really weighed down. All life events aren’t predictable and some can upend our routine and ways in which we live, but there are steps we can take to balance our scales.
Find joy outside of your workplace
Many professionals pour everything into their “9-to-5.” When work is going well, life is going well. What happens when work isn’t going so well?
When we tie our worth, our livelihood, our JOY to our job, life can be an endless rollercoaster ride. Sometimes, the things we do outside of our job, help make our time at work more joyful. Let’s face it, when work hits a dull or low period, that upcoming trip or newfound passion can make the work week go by a lot faster. The joy outside of our profession can give us “something to look forward to” during those moments when we find ourselves sitting at work contemplating our life choices.
Take some time to recharge, even if that means take time off from work
If you’re an educator the idea of taking a day off isn’t a popular one… well, maybe it is nowadays. Prior to the current educator crisis, educators rarely took a day off unless it was for a doctor’s appointment. While times have changed, they’ve eerily remained the same. Even though educators are leaving in droves, a large number are still reluctant to take the day due to substitute teacher shortages and feeling like their students will fall further behind. Additionally, some school districts strongly suggest NOT taking a day unless you are ill. Unfortunately, many are taking days for that exact reason instead of taking a day to practice mental wellness. Sometimes, taking a day is simply what is needed. Besides, saving that time off for a “Rainy Day ” instead of not taking time off, almost always ensures that your day away will be a sick day that consists of a doctor’s appointment. Regardless of occupation or the seemingly perilous times, RHITHM will always promote manners in which all individuals can foster their own mental wellness. Everyone can benefit from taking a day off, even if you don’t need to. Many studies suggest a direct correlation between overwork, burnout and physical & mental health conditions. Remember, there is no work-life balance when your work is your life.
Make healthy lifestyle changes
Making healthy lifestyle changes requires real and honest self reflection. We’ve all made some unhealthy lifestyle choices. Choices we wish we could redo. Some of us have even attempted to do them over. It’s all a part of this thing called life. Instead of focusing on things we cannot change, we can put our energy towards learning from them. Taking time to identify necessary changes will help create a healthy lifestyle that aids in attaining success and longevity.
No matter your goal or intention, having balance in life is an essential ingredient of success. When we take the time to balance the nuances and endless tasks life throws our way, we are more equipped to rebound or pivot when unexpected changes arise.
Balance your Scales.
