One of the most popular areas that people come to see business coaches and mentors about is work-life balance. So many people love their jobs, but they also love their family time, value getting exercise and also need adequate rest time, and they find it difficult or impossible to fit it all in. The stress of making choices and sacrifices that impact themselves and their loved ones can be significant.
The term ‘work-life balance’ can be misleading, and many experts suggest there can never be a balance, as the items are not symmetrical. I’m not so sure, as I think there can be different weights or values placed on different activities in a person’s life, allowing a balance to be struck.
The scientist in me proposed that perhaps there’s a kind of equilibrium to be found. The accountant in me says it’s the idea of taking control of your life. And the coach in me suggests that it’s the path to success and fulfilment.
How to Find Your Work-Life Balance
Whatever the terminology they choose, I work with clients to help them understand the weights and values they give to each element of their life. Upon finding that clarity, people can make confident decisions to either make changes, or leave things as they are, with a better appreciation of their choices.
Often they can come to realise that what they thought was an unsustainable situation is actually just as they want it. Other times, the appropriate action needed becomes self-evident, and they are able to move forward without doubt or fear.
There’s no doubt that everyone’s circumstances and story are unique, which is why you can’t always find the answer in a book or on the internet. This is where working with a professional coach on a one-to-one basis offers huge benefits.
I coach the person, within the framework of their current circumstances, through to a new upgraded situation which enables them to live the life they hope for.
Work-Life Balance Summary
Finding balance is personal; what may seem like the perfect life to one person may feel completely wrong to the next. The key is understanding what you value and then planning how to achieve it. A coach can’t tell you what to do or how to do it. However, through their experience, they can guide you to find the answers and support you on your journey.
