Are you finding yourself disengaged, losing focus, or more irritable at work? Have your family members had to stop you from complaining about work when you get home? These are signs that anxiety is affecting your work performance and overall happiness. I want to share a few tips on creating a healthy work-life balance so you can avoid burnout, find more time in your schedule to prioritize YOU, and keep anxiety at bay.

1. Make Time For Yourself By Blocking It Out On Your Calendar
Yes, it's easier said than done. But you deserve time to debrief, focus, eat, or take a power nap if you want. Blocking this time on your calendar is a gentle reminder that your job is not your life.

2. Give Yourself Extra Time in the Morning and Make It a Routine
With so many people working remotely these days, it's easier to roll out of bed and sign onto work. Create a consistent schedule to stretch, do yoga, or a quick meditation in the morning. A ritual can help mitigate anxiety both in the short and long-term.

3. Don't Feel Pressured to Work Extra Hours
If you're salaried, it's difficult to break away from the habits of hourly work. Remember you are being paid for your expertise, not your time. Set this boundary with yourself, be firm when you are logging on and off.

4. Instead of Logging Back On, Leave a Note For Future You
It could be tempting to log back on for a "quick second." We might think we're helping our future selves by preventing the task from being rolled over to the next day. The next thing you know, you've missed dinner and haven't had a chance to spend time with your loved ones. Be okay with work being left undone. You can always visit it in the morning.

5. Accept That There is No Perfect Work-Life Balance
Don't strive for the perfect schedule, aim for a realistic one. There are some days you might focus more on work, while other days you may have more energy to pursue your hobbies or connect with loved ones. Balance is attained over time, not in one day. Remain fluid and constantly assess where you are with your goals and priorities.

Want to talk to a therapist about creating a healthy work-life balance? Psychotherapy, counseling, and personal growth work can help you get there. Give us a call at 562-566-4257 or visit our website to book an appointment at www.daybreakcounselingcenter.com

Written by

Patrick Cleveland, L.M.F.T.
C.E.O. & Clinical Director
Daybreak Counseling Center
Long Beach, Cerritos, Brea
and Online Throughout all of California