Work and Play
Posted on July 14, 2011
How can I balance my work and my home life? In theory these two should be integrated easily. HNE is a very supportive environment. HNE also fosters a certain dedication to work, as expressed in the “personal and accountable” tagline that is part of our corporate culture. I find there is a tension between my desire to do a great job and my personal value of placing family first, and also my extensive outside interests. I imagine I am not the only one who experiences this pull and tug between work and play. Many people have large families, interesting hobbies, and personal commitments outside of work, that create this perceived conflict. So how to deal with it? Here are a few suggestions:
Set boundaries, in both directions. I am not going to miss my child’s school graduation or important sporting event in order to deliver some piece of work that may or may not be needed by a deadline. On the other hand, I may come in early or stay late or work a few hours on the weekend to make sure that important work gets done in time. This is only a conflict if I let it become one. It’s a matter of perception.
Maintain equilibrium. Meditation can help here. There have been times when I have become so wrapped up in work that I take it all too seriously. My blood pressure starts to rise. I find myself muttering in my cubicle, which I’m sure my cubicle neighbors can hear. I find that if I take a few deep breaths, or get up and walk around swinging my arms, I can bring myself back to a place where I am not so worked up over work, and this helps both me and the work.
Take the long view. Former Red Sox pitcher “Spaceman” Bill Lee said: “I think about the cosmic snowball theory. A few million years from now the sun will burn out and lose its gravitational pull. The earth will turn into a giant snowball and be hurled through space. When that happens it won’t matter if I get this guy out.” The Spaceman was a fierce competitor. Even today, in his sixties, he still plays old-time baseball with an intense desire to win. But at the end of the day you’ll find him laughing with his opponents and enjoying the camaraderie of sports. Be like the Spaceman! Take your work seriously, but keep things in perspective.
Our bodies, minds, and spirits will be healthier and happier if we find work-life balance.
Life is a balancing act. These are great tips to keep in mind. Thanks for sharing!