THE TOP 5 WORK/LIFE BALANCE MYTHS

1. If I just had more hours in the day, then I’d have enough time for home and work.

No need to have more hours in the day-You need to become more efficient. Idling leads to boredom. Boredom leads to procrastination. Too much time is wasted on the non-urgent and unimportant. Prioritize what is truly urgent and important that needs attention within the day.

2. I’ll get involved in non-work activities to provide more personal balance.

Not if it’s something you don’t enjoy! Identify your hobbies and activities that give you physical and mental energy. The last thing you need is something you dread to do in your personal life.

3. I promised myself and others that I’d leave work by 5pm daily.

Really? What happens on the days you actually finish your day before quitting time? It is possible if you are prioritizing and organizing your days well. Reward yourself (if you can) by leaving early on certain days.

4. I need to make more time for my loved ones.

Telling yourself you need to make time is putting more pressure on yourself, which renders you ineffective at work and home. Make weekly efforts to do something new with your family. Making small strides will provide the confidence as you move closer to your own work/life balance.

5. If I take time off, the team will see me as not pulling my weight.

It may be time to evaluate what you really need and want out of your current position. Does your job bring you great fulfillment and energy? Are others’ expectations of you real or perceived? Work to live, not live to work.

Author's Bio: 

Lynn Jarrett is the founder of Forte’ Enterprises. Lynn is a lifecoach and has been a sought after life balance expert for 15 years. She is also a mother of three children. Lynn has been quoted in the Detroit Free Press and Detroit News. Clients have included Ford Motor Company, General Electric and Johnson & Johnson.