Do you sometimes find yourself overwhelmed from the rush of getting everything done at work and at home? If so you may not have a good work-life balance which can cause stress and result in a lack of productivity and concentration, a weakened immune system, irritability and even depression.

Since a great deal of people struggle with both their work load at home and at work we are going to share a two-part series on how to find balance at work and at home.B If you think your work-life balance is currently not where it should be consider these tipsB fromB Mental Health AmericaB on how to get it on track when at work :

  • Set manageable goals each day.B Being able to meet priorities helps us feel a sense of accomplishment and control. The latest research shows that the more control we have over our work, the less stressed we get. So be realistic about workloads and deadlines. Make a bto dob list, and take care of important tasks first and eliminate unessential ones. Ask for help when necessary.
  • Be efficient with your time at work.B When we procrastinate, the task often grows in our minds until it seems insurmountable. So when you face a big project at work or home, start by dividing it into smaller tasks. Complete the first one before moving on to the next. Give yourself small rewards upon each completion, whether itbs a five minute break or a walk to the coffee shop. If you feel overwhelmed by routines that seem unnecessary, tell your boss. The less time you spend doing busy work or procrastinating, the more time you can spend productively, or with friends or family.
  • Ask for flexibility. Flex time and telecommuting are quickly becoming established as necessities in todaybs business world, and many companies are drafting work/life policies.
    If you ask, they might allow you to work flexible hours or from home a day a week. Research shows that employees who work flexible schedules are more productive and loyal to their employers.
  • Take five. Taking a break at work isnbt only acceptable, itbs often encouraged by many employers. Small breaks at workbor on any projectbwill help clear your head, and improve your ability to deal with stress and make good decisions when you jump back into the grind.
  • Tune in.B Listen to your favorite music at work to foster concentration, reduce stress and anxiety, and stimulate creativity. Studies dating back more than 30 years show the benefits of music in everyday life, including lowered blood pressure. Be sure to wear headphones on the job, and then pump up the volumeband your productivity.
  • Communicate effectively.B Be honest with colleagues or your boss when you feel youbre in a bind. Chances are, youbre not alone. But donbt just complainbsuggest practical alternatives. Looking at a situation from someone elsebs viewpoint can also reduce your stress. In a tense situation, either rethink your strategy or stand your ground, calmly and rationally. Make allowances for other opinions, and compromise. Retreat before you lose control, and allow time for all involved to cool off. Youbll be better equipped to handle the problem constructively later.
  • Give yourself a break. No onebs perfect! Allow yourself to be human and just do the best you can.B (B) copyright Mental Health America)
Do you have any tips on how you keep things balanced at work? Share them with us!

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