Balance is something we strive to implement into our finances, health and wellness, relationships and other areas of our lives. Without balance, things break down and problems arise. If you spend all your time working and less time taking care of yourself, then the scales are imbalanced, and you’ll eventually feel the negative effects of stress.
The good news is that there are proven methods you can practice to keep areas of your life in harmony with one another. Following these tips will make work, school and life more manageable and less stressful.
Create a Schedule
Time management is key, and it starts with a good schedule. Spend a few days logging how long it takes you to complete daily tasks and actions like commuting to work, making lunch, working out, doing homework, and socializing. You’ll get a good idea of how you’re spending your time. If you notice you’re spending too much time doing unproductive tasks, then maybe it’s time to eliminate some of the behaviors. Once you have a grasp of how you’re managing your time, it will be easier to keep a schedule. You’ll be able to estimate how long things will take and plan your day accordingly.
Find a Support System
Nobody achieves greatness overnight or by themselves. Sure, they have intrinsic values like determination, integrity, communication skills and other attributes to help them reach their goals but most likely a strong support system helped them get there. So, create your own system and watch how your life changes for the better.
Support systems vary from person to person. A few common systems include a babysitter to help you free up some time to focus on other areas of your life; a mentor or counselor to guide you through challenging career or education decisions, or a networking group to hone your people skills. The support systems you build are custom-made and will help you achieve your goals, reduce stress, and balance your life.
Enroll In Online Classes
Now is the time to take advantage of online education. Today’s technology allows you to search college catalogs, enroll in classes, perform the required work, and receive college credit all from an online portal. You’ll find programs at different academic levels in a variety of industries, including options like certificates in technology or a bachelor’s degree in business.
Besides being recognized by educational institutions, online programs are a great way to optimize your time. There is no need to commute to a college classroom or spend time sitting in one – that doesn’t make the subject any easier and you still have to put in the time and hard work. With an online program, you get to do it from the convenience of your home or work setting. This is perfect for someone looking to achieve work, life, school balance because the time you gain from taking online classes can be used more productively. The scales will tip in your favor and the everyday stress you feel from a chaotic life will reduce.
Schedule Some Me Time
Most of us have a few things that we really love to do. It’s the little things like working out, cooking special dinners, watching movies, or spending time with your pet. It’s called “me” time, and it recharges us and makes us feel good at the end of a stressful day. In fact, “me” time is a great way to create balance in your life, as you won’t feel stressed that you gave too much of yourself away to work, school, family or friends.
The above tips won’t come to you overnight. It’s a work in progress and it always takes a while to learn good time management skills. Remember, practice makes perfect, and before you know it, you’ll have the right balance of work, school, and life.
