Earlier this month is was National Stress Awareness Day. Statistics show we are all working harder than ever so I’ve been asking people for tips on minimising stress and achieving a positive work life balance.
The recruitment sector can be notorious for long working hours, high pressure environments and tough targets so it’s important to try and find a balance. For many of us though that can be easier said than done. So what can you do?
Plan your free time as well as your work diary
We’ve all had weeks where we can’t remember doing anything except working and collapsing on the sofa. This doesn’t mean fill all your time so you are exhausted but if you want to see friends, go to the gym or do some DIY plan when you are going to do those things. It means you’ll be more likely to fit things in and you will feel as if you are making better use of your time and won’t regret the time you do spend relaxing.
Think about the time you waste
Sometimes we fall in to the habit of doing things that aren’t productive because they become part of our routine. Do you regularly attend meeting that aren’t useful? Or work late because you spend too much time listening to a colleague whinge. Find ways to change things, maybe that weekly meeting could be monthly instead or limited to half an hour instead of taking all morning.
Find ways to relax
By this I mean really relax, whether it is an exercise class, loosing yourself in a good book or film or a long soak in the bath. Think about the things that help you relax and make them a priority.
Outsource or delegate
In work think about the tasks you undertake that could or should be done by someone else. We often do things ourselves because it is quicker than explaining what needs doing. This might be the case in the short term but think about the longer term, if it is something you do regularly you’ll save lots of time by delegating in the long run. Then do the same at home, obviously this isn’t always feasible but sometimes it makes sense. Could you hire a cleaner or a gardener? It might seem like a luxury but if it gives you back your weekends maybe it isn’t such an extravagance after all. Could you do your supermarket shop online, use a
Get some fresh air
It’s amazing what a bit of sunshine and fresh air can do for your energy levels. Make time to get outdoors every day.
