Talk about work:life balance.
Today is a Monday. Monday’s are typically fraught with tearing one’s self from the memories of the weekend and putting on a brave face for the day and week ahead. This little chicken was super excited to start my Monday, I was amped. My alarm went off around 6am and I was getting things done by 6:30 – I work from home, making things more accessible and I recognise I have eliminated the stress of a commute from most of my work related stressors.
I still have stressors – some phone calls are not fun. Even in the not fun ones I have moments where I can sit back in the moment and think “my goodness, where did all this professional assertion come from?” I do love those moments where you can have a split second reflection that reminds you that you know your stuff, whilst delivering less than ideal news in a caring manner. Working in my industry, it’s important to remember that we can impact lives and that people all have their own story – they all require care and attention in a unique manner.
How does one manage to maintain a sense of humour, a sense of self, the ability to not be so wound up that the slightest pressure leads to implosion?? Joy! I managed to plan my day so it was broken up by a delightful 45 minute pedicure that was gifted to me. Then there was the walk I did around 9am to get myself some sunshine and exercise for 30 minutes, removing my brain, spine, and eyes from the computer for long enough to have a reset. Each time I come back to what I’ve been doing with renewed vigour and energy to get the production happening. That is good news for my task list and affirms to my colleagues that I’m getting stuff done, while working remotely and and with very minimal supervision.
I have no desire to turn the TV on, I don’t sit on FB all day, I have my phone with me and I answer it if I need to. All these things at my immediate disposal don’t limit my ability to be productive, contrary to popular belief. I know when I need a break, I switch gears as needed – sometimes that gear is me laying on the floor designing things while I watch a documentary in the background or listen to a podcast. The level of appreciation I have for my work environment is high – micro management is not really an option, if anything I have too much freedom. This may result in me feeling a little unanchored at times, I always manage to find a list of things I need to do, things to follow up on, things to create.
Today my workplace comes with a happy body, strong mind, and well connected psyche. Hope this finds you in a similar position.
Happy wandering
Hx