Striking a balance between work and your personal life can be challenging in today’s fast paced society. Here are some ways to get that necessary balance.

Take Time Out

The best performers and the happiest people in this world are not those who work all the time – they know the importance of balance and taking time out. You are not superhuman, no matter what you think you are capable of doing, and no matter how much you think that you are the only one who can do a job right. Like us all, you need time to rest, time to play, and time to do absolutely nothing. When you work, give it your all and work smart, but take time to step back, relax and unwind. You are more than work - you have a life with many aspects to it, all of which are equally important.

Know When to Say ‘No'

Saying no is not a bad thing. It can be a very good thing when said gracefully. When you feel overloaded with work or outside pressures consider saying no to any extra demands. You don’t need to be rude, just say no. This not only keeps your wellbeing intact, it gives people the opportunity to understand your boundaries. Boundaries create respect.

Do what you're good at, and let others do the rest.

Everyone knows that most people like to do a good job, but then there are some people who just want to do everyone else’s job well too. Are you one of those people? There’s a task at hand and you think that unless you do it all, it won’t get done properly or it won’t get done at all. Ask yourself this, relative to your wellbeing how important is it that you have to do everything and do it perfectly? Give other people the opportunity to do their bit and you do what you’re good at. Think of delegating this way, by allowing other people to help you, you are giving them an opportunity to feel proud of themselves for a job well done. Don’t deprive people of that feeling by taking over their roles.

Get organized

When you create some general structure in your day life runs more smoothly. I’m not talking about earth-shattering rules and regulations, little adjustments are usually enough to bring better structure into your day. For example, ten minutes before you finish your work for the day, write a little to-do list for the following day. It will make the next day so much easier. Another example might be to prioritise a lunch break at the same time every day instead of eating when you get a chance. Or perhaps you could car pool your children’s school runs. There are lots of things you can do to make your life more structured. Jot a few things down now.

Give yourself energy

We all know that it’s important to get good nutrition by eating lots of greens, fruits, protein etc. but there are things that are particularly helpful in increasing energy, cognitive function and stamina, all of which we need for a good work-home balance.

• Eat mixed berries or a berry smoothie every day to dramatically improve your memory and cognitive function.

• Eat foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids such as oily fish and chia seeds. It has been shown to enhance focus and concentration significantly.

• Keep your blood sugar levels steady so you don’t get drops in your energy. You can do this by drinking water throughout the day and snacking on nuts and dried fruits.

Relax

Set aside five to ten minutes in the morning and/or evening to take a silence break. In silence, simply close your eyes and breathe. Imagine yourself in a beautiful place, if you like, that will help you relax and unwind easily. Gently, comfortably and slowly breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth until you feel calm and at ease.

Get Outside

Fresh air makes you feel alive. Include it in your day by taking a walk, going for a jog or sitting by the sea, for example.

Have Fun!

Fun helps your work from encroaching on your personal life. Allow space in your life to laugh and at least once a week do something on purpose for fun.