After years of reading work emails with my morning coffee, I realized my personal time was being invaded by work, so I decided to let them go until I got into the office. My job is high-pressured enough, but when my home had become an extension of my office, I knew I needed a change. It was time to get back some of my personal time.
It did not take long to notice that by changing my focus I felt more energized when I arrived at work, and I actually became more productive. This small step gave me new perspective, which made me think of other ways I could use my time more effectively.
“Once you begin utilizing your time more efficiently, your work/life balance will take shape.”
For those of us who travel a distance to the office, consider a fresh approach to your daily ride to work. This is another way to slip in personal time whether you get behind the wheel, or hop on a bus or train. It can be the perfect time to catch up on that book you’ve been dying to read, or music you find energizing, or even listen to that humorous podcast people have been talking about. The benefit of making this “your” time will enrich your day and give you the sense that you are closer to achieving a better work/life balance.
Plan ahead so you can get the most out of your commute. Be creative and open to discover what brings you joy outside of work. Here are a few suggestions to help you get started:
- Make a playlist for the week so you can listen to your favorite music, or if you’re in the car, turn-up the volume and sing out loud.
- Look through the latest best-sellers on the New York Times list for an audiobook to listen to.
- If travel is on your “bucket list,” download an app to learn the language.
- Find some podcasts to binge on.
Once you begin utilizing your time more efficiently, your work/life balance will take shape. Here are a few apps to download that may be of interest:
- “Podcast” and “Stitcher” – for interviews and great learning content. There are some created by women that you may enjoy!
- “Audible” by Amazon – for audiobooks to download onto your phone.
- “Personal Zen” and “Headspace” – provides meditation to calm your nerves.
- “Rosetta Stone” or “Duolingo” — to learn a new language.
It’s important to make time for yourself, and when that seems impossible with family and work commitments, taking advantage of these bits of time you never thought you had, can start you on an unexpected journey.