Finding the balance between work life and home life can be very tricky indeed, but it is vital for corporate wellness. People take care of their wellbeing best of all if they are able to enjoy their work life, enjoy their home life, and let neither part encroach on the other in any way.
Those who are at the top of their profession, such as Olympic gold medalist, swimmer Michael Klim, have the toughest challenge, as their work is an all-consuming passion that they find hard to let go of.
Klim is fortunate to have the help of family and nannies to help him with his young family, but he admits that finding the right balance between work and home is something that he continually works on, for the sake of his wellness, and that it presents something of a challenge to him all the time.
Like most men, it’s not just family that has a pull on his time – Klim also needs to make time for fun and friends, too. Klim admits that there have been times when he is with his family but not totally engaged with them as his mind has still been at work. Children can tell when they are not being totally focused on, and this can have a negative effect on their self esteem.
Klim has created a lifestyle brand, the Milk men’s skincare range, and he points out that if he didn’t live well, he would be seen as a hypocrite. Klim feels that in order to achieve this there are several steps that you can take, to ensure work/life balance.
- Switch off all technology at a designated time, or you risk being a slave to work calls and e-mails on your smart phone or tablet.
- Take some time each day that is just for yourself. Sit down with a cup of coffee and simply savour the moment, without thinking about what else you should be doing. Yoga and meditation can also help here.
- Plan your family life on paper, jotting down goals, times and schedules. It may sound clinical, but making time for your family life in a practical way can really help you to achieve the right balance.
- Communication is key – make sure that your family are all aware of each other’s needs and try to help one another fulfil their daily and more long-term goals.