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As the New Year begins, so too does a long stretch of work weeks without holidays to break them up. And if feeling more balanced is one of your resolutions for 2010, there is no doubt that your work life needs an overhaul before real balance can be achieved. Below is a list of easy and even fun ideas to make the work day an inspiring opportunity for growth. You can squeeze in your passions at work and love your job. It just takes a little creative thinking.
1. Get the “bad stuff” done first. The more you procrastinate, the worse those negative tasks will seem.
2. Send a note to your personal email from your work email with a motivational or relaxing message to open later that night from home.
3. Go outside and do something non-work related and absorb some sunshine.
4. Write a motivational motto to get you through each day – even if it’s a countdown to the end of the day, it will keep your brain moving along.
5. Have photos of your family and friends around to remind you of the important things in your life.
6. If you can, light a candle or spritz some aromatherapy spray or oil to boost your mood.
7. Put fun things on your calendar so you have something to look forward to each weekend.
8. Take a quick break and look at vacation destinations – remind yourself that by working you’re giving yourself the opportunity for travel.
9. Have a plant or two in your workspace.
10. Pack a yummy lunch or snack each day.
11. Do a quick crossword or Sudoku puzzle to stimulate your brain.
12. Read a book you love on your breaks.
13. Subscribe to online motivational emails.
14. Listen to music while you work at your desk.
15. Shut off your phone and close your email for just 10 minutes periodically throughout the day. Try to extend the length of “unplugged” time every week.
16. Do desk stretches and aerobics to keep yourself energized.
17. Take a walk.
18. Plan a happy hour with a friend or co-worker.
19. If you need to vent or feel stressed, keep yourself professional and find a place to let out your emotions – in your car, on paper, in an email – just be sure to destroy any evidence and don’t address emails to anyone if you’re venting turns nasty.
20. Remember it’s just a job, not your life. Perspective can be a lifesaver on difficult days.
If you need support to find your work/life balance, follow “The Happy Hour EffectTM Balance Plan” on our blog for life inventory tools, balance mapping, GOAL-setting and tips for level-setting your life. As founder and President of Happy Hour Effect LLC, I will be sharing highlights of the plan and helping you manage your work and life priorities. Happy New Year!!
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