Work/Family Balance

One of the most difficult challenges working adults often face is balancing work and home life.  We’re torn by our priorities; being pulled by our commitments at work while we worry that we are neglecting our parenting responsibilities at home.  It’s a common struggle for many people with strong family values and well placed intentions in wanting to build a strong financial future for their family.  Comfortable balance can be difficult to find. 

Time pressure is a by-product of finding that balance.  It seems there is never enough time in either place.  The danger is feeling you don’t make an impact at home or  at work.  Feelings of inadequacy creep in, causing stress and anxiety leading to a general lack of well being. 

The good news is that it doesn’t have to be this way!  All it takes is a strong commitment for change.  Consider that with particular attention to balance of mind, body and spirit, a person  can make dramatic improvements to their life.  

Take for example, Carol, a working mother and wife with 3 children between the ages of 9 and 14.  Carol spent time developing her career in Human Resources before having children, then took time off when the children were small.  She’s been back in the workforce for 6 years and is now in a high level management position as Vice President of Human Resources. 

With this position, much is expected of her.  She reports to the President and participates as part of the Executive Leadership Team.  Her input is critical to the growth of the company.  When she is at work, her head must be in the game.  Yet her family is her first priority, and with three children there are often distractions.  How does she balance work and home life successfully? 

First, she makes it a priority and is committed to the mindset that it is possible to be effective in both areas.  She knows that without her family she is not a whole person, and that the same is true without her work.  She understands that she must make a strong commitment to health and physical fitness so that the stress level does not make her vulnerable to illness.  She networks with like-minded people who support and uplift her.  She pays attention to her spiritual self and seeks to nourish that need.   

In order to stay focused and to get to the next level, Carol has the advantage of having a Business Coach provided by her company.  For her, a business coach has helped her gain valuable perspective as a thinking and accountability partner.  Her coach reminds her of her “Why”, and keeps her accountable to taking the necessary action to create the forward momentum necessary to move her career to the next level.   

When at home, Carol makes it a point to BE at home.  While it took practice, Carol focuses on being a mom and spending high quality time doing fun activities that are meaningful with her husband and children.  She focuses on spending time talking and connecting individually with each member of her family.  Carol and her husband have made a commitment to family dinner hour, where each member of the family discusses interesting aspects of their day.  They connect every day in this way. 

It takes discipline to keep your mind focused on where you are rather than letting yourself wander to where your worries are.  In doing so, you create a context for balance and a renewed commitment to spend quality time in all areas of your life.   

Tips on Finding Balance

• Have the mindset that balance is possible
• Commit to strong health and physical fitness to combat stress
• Network with like-minded people
• Nourish your spirit
• Focus on your “Why”
• Hire a Coach