How to Maintain Balance Between Business and Family Life

The economy has forced many people into the position of working longer hours in order to pay the bills. What once was a 40 hour work week for many, has turned into a 50 plus hour work week. Often this means bringing work home, and continuing your shift during the evening hours. This makes it difficult for many to separate their work life from their home and family life. Here are a few tips to help you maintain balance.

Set a Schedule

Use an organizer to help you clearly review what is expected of you each day, week, and month. Establish an action log and catergorize items in order of priority. Review the list often, and clarify the amount of time needed to complete these tasks. Allocate additional time in the schedule in case you run into problems. The less stress you can allow to enter your life, the better.


Learn to Decline

When you know your job, and you know it well that can make things difficult. Everyone will turn to you as their savior. While this is flattering, it can become a problem and easily overwhelming. Look at the requests that are mandatory and review how you can fit them into your schedule and successfully accomplish them. For all other requests, you must learn to say "no," and limit what you commit to. When you overcommit, you easily set yourself up for failure because you have now placed yourself in a position of not completing taks to the best of your ability. Stay focused.

Make Family a Priority

While you want to be a success in business, what you often find yourself working for (making a better life for your family,) is what you end up losing in the end. Set weekly schedules for your family, so that each member is aware of what is happening and what is expected. Find a place to post a calendar everyone has access to and can review. For younger children, explain to them what the plans are to increase their excitement. They are good at reminding parents about things, and it can also assist you in remaining on track with your commitments. One simple activity you can do is establish the rule of turning off all electronic equipment during dinner. Turn the volume down on the answering machine, and do not answer the telephone. This provides a simple guaranteed time for members to share the happenings of their day sans interruption. It will also bring families closer together by creating a consistent time for bonding.


Ask for Help

Often we fail to ask for assistance when needed because we are fearful of appearing as if we are unable to complete assigned tasks, frightened about losing our jobs...but the underlying goal should always remain at completing any task to the best of your ability. At times this may mean seeking help, so that you remain in a position of putting your best foot forward and presenting a superior finish. So, before you become frustrated and overwhelmed ask a co-worker, family member, mentor...to share the load and when you are finished be willing to share the credit for a job well done.