You and Your Work Schedule: Don’t Let Your Work Manage Your Life

All work and no play… well, we all know how that goes. For busy leaders, setting boundaries and creating a Work/Life balance is not as simple as it sounds. As someone who can easily let work manage my life, I like to think of creating and maintaining a balance as a practice, not a perfect. 

Here are four practices I use in my own business and share with the leaders I support:

1. Manage Expectations. Managing expectations is a win-win in every area of our lives. It reduces stress for you and your clients. I set expectations with my clients at the beginning of our working relationship. During their onboarding, they receive an email that lets them know when I’m at my desk, how they can best reach me, how to schedule time with me, that I monitor my email throughout the day for emergencies and quick responses, and that I will respond within 24 hours to routine work requests. While there are times when it is important to start early and work late, managing expectations helps me do this in a way that’s sustainable.

2. Time Management Methods. Be deliberate with your time. There are many different approaches to time management, and it is important that you find the one that works best for you. I use the time-blocking method. I determine what needs to be done and how much time it will take, then block time on my calendar, batching by client as much as possible. This includes scheduled breaks. Time blocking keeps me focused, helps me manage my workflow, and helps me avoid overcommitting.

3. Use Technology. Automate processes and invest in/use technology to help you save time. For example, I set up and use automated appointment scheduling software to make getting on my calendar a breeze for my clients. And when I choose to work in the evenings or on weekends, I schedule my emails to be sent during my normal working hours. I find this effective because I can stay productive during my off-hours without infringing upon my clients’ evenings or weekends.

4. Invest in Your Health. Think of investing in your physical and mental well-being as investing in your business. Let putting yourself last be a thing of the past. I know that if I don’t take proper care of myself, the quality of my work suffers. I make quality sleep, drinking plenty of water, proper nutrition, exercise, and stress-reducing activities a part of my daily routine.

These are practices I use in my own business and help my clients put in place as well. When boundaries are clear and time is managed with intention, the week feels calmer, and the work gets done.

If creating more balance in your workweek is something you’re working toward, and could use some help, let’s talk.