Emotional well-being is a hot topic in the healthcare world. But what about emotional health in the workplace? According to the American Institute of Stress, 60 – 80% of accidents on the job are related to stress and 40% of staff turnover is related to stress. Furthermore, depression alone is estimated in economic terms to reduce workplace performance by 40%.
Ever heard of presenteeism? It's like absenteeism, except it refers to employees who remain present at work when they are stressed or ill – thereby reducing their productivity 2 to 3 times. In other words – they're physically present, but emotionally and psychologically absent.
Who wants that??
At 3Leaf Group, we've been preaching work-life balance for years. The true definition of work-life balance is having the feeling of achievement and enjoyment in a day's work. It is important to be productive, busy, and accomplished – but those components will only succeed if they are balanced with relaxation, reflection, and personal care. After all, we are people – not machines. Man was created with the innate desire to toil, cultivate, and produce, but he was also created with emotions, a conscious, and emotional and psychological needs. Even God rested on the seventh day. Can't we find time to rest as well?
It is important to find ways to remain productive, while still carving out personal time and ensuring emotional well-being. Here are five tips in achieving work-life balance:
1. Build down-time into your schedule: Make sure to plan personal time into your week whether it's a date night, time with friends, or enjoying a special activity that will help you recharge.
2. Avoid people or activities that sap your time and energy: Stay away from people with a negative attitude and avoid talking with gossipers during your break time. "Many people waste their time on activities or people that add no value” says Marilyn Puder-York, PhD, a psychologist and executive coach in New York and Connecticut. We often get sucked into these habits that are making us much less efficient without realizing it.
3. Reorganize your errands: Try to consolidate your household chores and errands. Perhaps schedule them all at a convenient time – or better yet, delegate chores so you are not stressed with all the household responsibilities.
4. Exercise, exercise, exercise: Physical activity is proven to boost emotional and physical health -- so get moving!
5. Remember that a little relaxation goes a long way: Take a power nap, make small goals for yourself instead of large ones, indulge in a 10-15 pleasure like taking a bath, reading a magazine, or taking a stroll around the block.
Do these sound like attainable goals? I think so. We're all trying to find the right balance of work, pleasure, and family responsibilities. If you're interested in learning more about work-life balance, visit our extensive audiobook library. We provide hundreds of titles all related to work-life balance. Whether you're looking for stress management, smoking cessation, a guide to yoga, or parenting guidance – we've got what you're looking for. Remember, productivity is not only measured by your output at the office, it is also measured by your sense of accomplishment and enjoyment from home and work achievements.
