Part 2 of the “Work-Life Balance” Article Series
By ACN President Mindy Ward
The first thing many of us do when we start our workday is turn on the computer and check our email. For me, that was the beginning of a long, winding, time-sucking trip down the rabbit hole. With one click, then one response after another and half of my day was gone.
If you truly want work-life balance, you must start to set boundaries. In her book Take Back Your Time-The Guilt-Free Guide to Life Balance, Christy Wright puts it this way “It’s important to set boundaries and protect what matters. It’s not selfish; it’s self-preservation and it’s smart.”
So, here is one method I use to set a few boundaries at work.
Ignore email—for a time. I do not open my email inbox until 11 a.m. I don’t even open the tab because if it appears on my navigation bar, my first reaction when I am struck with writer’s block or stuck on a task is to click on the email icon. Then I’ve lost focus of my tasks and am back to losing time responding to emails. Set your own email downtime and stick to it. It provides freedom to focus.
Provide alternative messaging. In cases where my direct reports or production team needs an immediate answer, they can reach me on Teams. I always leave that feature on. They also can text my cell phone. Always provide a contact option for emergencies.
Mid-day rejuvenation. For me exercise during the day helps me relieve stress from the morning. I’ve also found it energizes me for the rest of the day. I tend to be more creative and productive. Even if it is a quick walk, take time to yourself—mine is an hour. I do not take calls. I do not check my email or Teams messages.
Afternoon outtakes. For me this is the organized chaos of my week. I finish responding to morning emails and return phone calls. I schedule most meetings or story interviews after 1 p.m.—whether by phone or in-person. I carve out Friday afternoons for other administrative duties like approving expense reports.
Before you embark on any of these work-life balance strategies inform others of your plans, especially if you have direct reports, a boss or fellow coworkers. Most understand. Some adopt the process with you. But at least everyone is on the same page.
This list will not work for everyone; however, I encourage you to find a routine that suits your workload and employer’s needs.
Next up, I’ll share a few books to help you dive deeper into work-life balance. I’ll also offer my favorite inspiring quotes to help you on your journey. Here’s a teaser:
“The needs, opportunities and demands of your life will always exceed your ability to meet them. We are painfully limited by what we can fit in. But you get to choose what you focus on and what you let go,”—Christy Wright.
Feel free to drop me a line at [email protected] with your favorite books or time management tips.
Mindy Ward is the Senior Content Director with Farm Progress. She is also Editor of the Missouri Ruralist magazine.