You all know I love these! I’ve been tagged by Sheelagh at The Screaming Pages on how do I managed a home/work life balance. It’s one of the hardest things I do on a daily basis (yes, even tougher than editing!). So here we go!
How do you achieve balance in your life? My husband. Honest to Pete, I wouldn’t be able to do half of what I have without his support. He currently stays at home with our kids and I work full time. He buys me time on the weekends to do my writing, and cooks and cleans for me through the week. Complete role reversal in my house ladies. I love him to pieces for everything he’s done for me!
I’ve also learned to keep things separate. I have a BlackBerry, but when I go home it goes into my purse and I don’t bring it out to the next day. When I’m home, that’s what I focus in on. At work, that’s where I keep attention. Not everyone has a job like that, but the more of an effort you make to keep the two apart the better you will be.
No one is indispensable in the corporate world. But no one can replace you at home.
What is your biggest challenge in balancing your life? Time. I think this is the same for most people. I find sleeping less and drinking more coffee helps. Seriously, I look at things as they come up. I make a snap decision as to what is the most important thing in my life at that moment. When I have my answer, then I throw my complete attention on it. Focus on one thing at a time means you get more accomplished and the person you are with enjoys your undivided attention. Not easy to do, but I try.
What are your priorities? Me, Family, writing, health. People think it strange that I put myself ahead of my family, but I look at it this way. If I’m unhappy (over weight, depressed, sick, angry, etc) then none of the other things that are important to me will be looked at. Because I care about them all, I need to look after myself first so I can look after the rest. I also want to show my girls that its important to treat yourself with respect. Because if you don’t, no one else will either.
How have your priorities changed over time and why? Yes and no. I used to put others before myself and I almost burned out. The change has done me a world of good.
What advice can you share to help all of us balance our own lives? Write down on a sheet of paper (or on your blog, or computer) what is important to you. Not what you think should be important, but what really matters. Then you need to look at all the stuff going on in your life. If they don’t directly relate to one of your goals, cut it. You don’t need it. Or at the very least, move it to the bottom of the pile. If you have to choose between two (or more) things, look at them in relation to your goals. If it fits in go for it! And don’t feel bad about saying no.
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