​​​​Christopher Sopko

The website, businessdictionary.com defines this topic in the following fashion:

“ A comfortable state of equilibrium achieved between an employee's primary priorities of their employment position and their private lifestyle. Most psychologists would agree that the demands of an employee's career should not overwhelm the individual's ability to enjoy a satisfying personal life outside of the business environment.”

With the exception of the most hardened people, I doubt that many would argue that this would be a good thing for most businesses.  Unfortunately, in practice many people find this to be quite difficult to accomplish especially as they rise through the ranks of management.  

Blogger Annabel Candy posted the following advice that is certainly worth considering:

“If you’re feeling dissatisfied, stressed out, depressed, over-worked, unloved or worn out then there could be one of several things missing in your life. When you have a look through the list below you’ll probably know which areas are being neglected and which areas are bogging you down. Working out what’s lacking in your life is the key to restoring the balance and getting back your mojo.”

8 Elements of Work-Life Balance

Just as a business will run more smoothly when all the departments agree and focused on the same goals, your sense of well-being and performance in all aspects of your life will increase when you strive to balance these eight areas.

• Friendships – For me this is hard to balance. There have been times in my life when friends have been everything and other times when friendship is neglected because of work or geographical conflict and you end up feeling lonely.

• Relationships – Includes family and may include some or all of the following – life partner, parents, siblings, kids and extended family.

• Chores – Includes finances, cooking, cleaning, shopping, gardening and the like.

• Work – Includes professional development and networking.

• Physical – Includes exercise, diet, nutrition and sleep.

• Emotional – You may call if your spiritual side and it’s not easy to pigeon hole. Some people go to traditional place of worship, others meditate, or do yoga. I go surfing or for a walk on the beach.

• Self – Nurturing your inner child with fun and play. Includes holidays, hobbies, peace and quiet, adventure, creativity, reading.

• Community - Being part of something greater than you and helping others create a sense of belonging, usefulness and being selfless actually makes you feel happier too.