More than 7 million Americans are holding down two or more jobs, according to the latest numbers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, (2010 Census). This is about 5 percent of the total workforce. But if you are working multiple jobs how can you create the necessary work-life balance? Impossible? Not so, say experts.
Having a balance isn’t just for your peace of mind and better relationships; it is also vital for your health. ??Life-work balance helps to prevent burnouts and health problems. The balance promotes well-being through giving us the time and energy to be happy and productive, which in turn allows us to make meaningful contributions to our family and community,? explains Certified Career Coach Jess Chua.
Having a balance will also help you at work. ?Work-life balance is crucial for busy professionals. Having a proper work-life balance boosts creativity, prevents burnout, strengthens social bonds and increases productivity,? says Certified Life Coach Marissa Russell of The High Achieving Woman.
Here are some tips to make the balance doable:
–Figure out what?s important to you. ?Set priorities. Knowing what your priorities are makes it easier to stay focused. It also makes it easier to politely say “no” to activities which encroach on your time and don’t bring you joy or help you get closer to your goals,? suggests Chua.
–Realize you cannot do it all. ?Delegate as much as you can. There are free ways to do this like asking your significant other and/or children to contribute more to household chores. You can also used paid services like housekeepers, having your groceries delivered, etc. as your budget allows,? says Russell.
–Even if it is hard, carve out non-work time. ?Set aside some time for quality family time. Many people get a second job so that they are better able to support their families. Allocate some time each week to spending time with your family so that your efforts at work are worthwhile,? says Chua.
She continues, ?Set aside some quiet time. Whether it’s early in the morning or just before you go to bed, having some time for solitude and reflection helps you to unwind and relax your mind. A clear mind helps you to be more objective and organized.–Look at your month and figure out what time you can spend on yourself. You might not be able to carve out solo-time on a daily or even weekly basis, but on a monthly basis, try to find time where you’re allowed to be creative, quiet, or be able to have fun in whatever way you choose!?
Don?t bring the office with you. ?Leave work at work. When you are at home, only do things that align with your personal interests and responsibilities. You are already working multiple jobs. For your own sanity, don’t extend work any further into your life than it already is,? Russell points out.
–Remember, there is always room for improvement. ?Give up on perfectionism. When you are very busy, you cannot afford to have a perfectionist’s mentality. Let good enough be good enough. Know your limits, try your best and show some compassion and understanding towards yourself,? says Russell.
