Karen Degen is the owner of Set Free with EFT, a company that focuses on changing mindsets to create business success Email: karen@setfree.co.nz or visit www.setfree.co.nz
A government study on work-life balance in New Zealand noted that most people got so caught up in the day-to-day details of living that their life got out of balance without them realising it. It found that most people would not seriously address work-life imbalance issues until they were in a crisis situation.
The study noted that most employees felt some reticence raising work-life balance issues with their employer, because New Zealanders have a natural reserve and pride with regard to discussing personal issues. Therefore, by the time stress is reported, the situation is already critical.
Under New Zealand law, employers have an obligation to prevent excessive stress that could cause harm. Prudent employers have work-life balance initiatives permanentlyin place.
Employees are not the only ones to benefit from these initiatives. The 2003 NZ Dept of Labour study titled ‘Perceptions and Attitudes Towards Work-Life Balance in New Zealand’ identified the key benefits to employers of implementation of work-life balance initiatives as:
Retention of quality staffBeing able to attract quality staff
- Higher productivity
- Happier workplaces
- More motivated staff
- A closer relationship between staff and management.
Among other lifestyle changes, a professional will assist in modifying the following behaviours necessary for work – life balance.
1. Learning to put yourself first
Those who are the most stressed tend to be givers personality wise, and always putting others before themselves. In times of stress it’s essential to put yourself first and stop doing so much for other people. Unfortunately this type of person will have had a lifetime of being like this and it can be challenging to change without help. Professionals will look at the subconscious drivers for this behaviour. Those who are under stress and don’t make this important life change may get worse.
2. Learn to say “no”
Those who don’t generally put themselves first often have the added problem of being unable to say “no”. Because of this they will take on more and more workload, whether in their employment or in their personal life. They may feel resentful of this and may feel that they are being manipulated by others, but in actual fact it’s usually an inability to set appropriate boundaries, and to enforce them.
3. Ensure there is something you love or are passionate about in your life
What enjoyment, fun, passion or interest do you have in your life? People who are stressed and trying to simplify their lives often make the mistake of dropping out their hobbies or interests. These are a vital part of our life and time must be made for these. Cut back somewhere else but don’t cut back on that which gives you pleasure.
4. Ensure you have ‘you’ time
It’s vital to have time for yourself. Whether you want to spend that time getting exercise, relaxing and doing nothing, or treating yourself to something nice it’s essential for a well balanced life.
5. Add meaning to your life
An essential part of life is feeling that we are making a difference in the world, even if in a small way. We need to have meaning. Ask yourself what difference you make and if you can’t find an answer, look to add one. Do a little charity work, or contribute a little to your community, of just something that makes you feel good about yourself.
