Written by Leanne Matlow

A certain amount of stress and yes,  anxiety,  is normal and actually useful.  At work as well at home, you need it to get things accomplished, to keep you organized and even to get you energized.  But what if you have too much of a good thing?  Like chocolate,  or dare I say it, coffee, too much stress or anxiety can be paralyzing.  In order keep each area of your life (work, family, friends, community involvement, etc.) functioning well, there are  some steps you can take to achieve a better work–life balance.  Work-life balance is defined as I the state of equilibrium in which demands of personal life, professional life, and family life are equal.  Just as there is no perfect, one-size fits all life, a balance that works for you is what you should be striving for.

Here are some steps that can set you on your path to a healthy balance between work and life:

1. Prioritize work tasks at home and work.  Keep a calendar of what has to do done, what could be done and what would be nice to get done.
2. Structure time so you can plan and cross off tasks as you complete them.
3. Take breaks during the work day.  Get up and move and try to get a breath of fresh air,
4. Exercise daily, eat healthily and practice good sleep habits.
5. Make use of holidays to recharge.
6. Leverage technology to work more efficiently and effectively.  (Turn off your phone sometimes.)
7. Practice self-care.  It is different than being selfish. It means taking so time to yourself to do something that brings you a sense of peace. 
8. Surround yourself with bodyguards, people who make you feel good.  Avoid negative people who question your every move or are judgmental of your choices.
9. Have realistic expectations of yourself.
10. Ask for help!  It is a sign of strength not weakness.

 

Want to learn more?

Join the Koschitzky Centre for Jewish Education for Mental Health Empowerment Day, where we will explore the theme “what I wish you knew.”  Through the professional and lived experience of students, educators, psychiatrists, parents and peer supporters, we will tell you what we wish you knew - and what you need to know - to empower the young people in your life.

Register today!

Date: October 27, 2019

Time: 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Location: Beth Tzedec Congregation, 1700 Bathurst Street, Toronto