By Patricia Uyeh

Balance is key in every human endeavour. We should not allow one area of our life suffer at the expense of another. Basically, the common definition of balance seems to be about how we partition our time: X number of hours spent with family, friends, and self; X number of hours given over to the business.

For some, balance is about the state of mind, not the activities that fill ones time. Well, to be balanced does not only involve things that are good—it also means  ability to respond to setbacks appropriately.

Here are some tips to help you create a work life balance:

Know yourself and act accordingly

When I was 16 and spending more time outside of the family home, my dad would always say, “Remember who you are.” For the longest time, I didn’t know what that meant, until I moved away, met new  people, started my career, and figured out where I fit in. For him, it came from a place of moral and ethical beliefs. For me, knowing and being true to myself is how I find balance.

Plan

Virtually every thing we do in life requires planning. To get the desired results, proper planning and continuous following through would save the day. I may not be that maniacal, but I prioritize what needs to happen and block out time to concentrate on those things first. It’s a rare day when my list actually gets accomplished, but knowing what did and didn’t get done, means I can prioritize my tomorrow and prepare some contingency plans, if necessary.

Asking for help

Asking for help is what keeps you from drowning— there’s too much to do alone and still do well. Your employers deserve to have the best from you and your team. If you know not, even the great book buttresses that when you ask you shall be given.

Let go

When there’s nothing more to be done—when the wheels are in motion and the deadline has passed, then let go. That’s where all of my planning and listing and asking for help really makes the difference.

Work-life balance isn’t just about finding time for my family or a good book; it’s about finding the peace within yourself.  Being balanced is about owning it, knowing who you are and then living within your means of time, money, and energy. It’s a process we are still learning and refining, but the more we get to know ourselves, the better we are at being balanced.

Source: www.fortune.com