Finding a work-life balance that allows for self-care can be tricky. But it’s important to make time for both physical and mental health. Trying to figure out where to start? Experts say taking a step back from the busyness of your life is key. With that in mind, here are some tips to help you find your “sweet spot.”
1. Get active
Physical activity can help you manage stress, improve your mood and sleep better, boost immunity and even stave off illness. But it’s important to find an activity you enjoy so it isn’t something you dread doing.
2. Find your purpose
Whether it’s volunteering or helping others in your community, reaching out to others can give you purpose and make you feel good about yourself. It also gives you something positive to focus on during difficult times instead of stewing over problems.
3. Set boundaries
Creating boundaries between work and home life helps everyone stay on track with their responsibilities, experts say. That just might involve saying no when necessary or creating a schedule for when certain chores get done at home.
4. Meditate
Take some time each day for a short meditation session to help clear your mind (and refresh). It might be just five minutes each day, but it is more than enough for a soft reset.
5. Stop and smell the roses – literally
Sometimes we get so focused on work that we forget to stop and appreciate what we’ve accomplished. Take some time to savor your big accomplishments. Look back at your goals from a year ago and see how far you’ve come!
6. Make time for it
Making time for self-care is the first step, so if you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed with life, it’s time to get creative and schedule in some me-time. In order to create a practice of self-care, take some time out of your day and schedule in a self-care activity that feels right for you. Treat it as an appointment with yourself so you’ll commit to making it happen. If you need to set a reminder on your phone, do it! This way, you won’t let your busy schedule get in the way of taking care of yourself.
