Get the Work Life Balance Right - Take Time to Relax and Recharge Your Batteries

The season of good will is upon us, and for many people, this will be the first time that they have taken a complete break from their business or job for a few months. Make the most of this and promise yourself and your family complete down time. Do not start preparing reports or proposals, sorting out your office or anything else that is work related or takes mental effort. Let your mind relax and busy yourself with your friends and family or potter around the house, take a walk or simply just watch television. Do the things you wouldn't normally do in a working week.

Regular relaxation is essential for your wellbeing which will result in a longer and more fulfilled life. Commit now to be good to yourself in the year to come. Here are a few tips for keeping yourself energised and relaxed:-

1. Take time off every week

When you run your own business it is very easy to get caught up in doing something towards it 7 days a week. Every single study I have ever come across in this area confirms that we are far more productive if we take a least 1 complete days rest.

2. Take Mini-breaks

Try to take a 3 day break every 3 months. During that time, as suggested above, do not get tempted to catch up on work. Busy yourself and your mind on other things. If you do anything work related you are keeping your mental gears in motion which means you wont be getting the rest you need.

3. Take at least one holiday a year

Have at least 2 full weeks off per year during which time you do nothing that is work related. If you go away and take any work with you, you will not be giving your mental batteries the chance to re-charge and you will come back just as tired as when you went. You can either work or relax, you can't do both!

4. Take a break today

If you are caught up in a task, discussion or you are finding yourself emotionally drained at work, take a break from what you are doing and do something different for a while. As the saying goes, "a change is as good as a rest." If you are able, take a walk and clear your head. Let your mind wonder and think relaxing thoughts, thoughts that make you smile such as a time on holiday or a loved one. You can not perform at your best when you are feeling emotionally charged. Just taking yourself away from the situation for a while will clear your head and you can come back to the task with renewed vigour.

5. Eat Well

Since your diet has such a big impact on your physical and mental energy, start thinking about what you put into your mouth. Digestion uses a lot of energy, especially if we are eating processed foods with high proportions of fat and sugar. Natural foods are much easier to digest and stops that sluggish feeling.

Actions

Plan your diary to include regular breaks and stick to them. Don't be tempted to put them off. Book holidays months in advance and get them paid for. This way you are committed to taking them and not tempted to put them off and let work get in the way.

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