How to Balance Work, Life, and Sleep

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Photo by Kaboompics // Karolina from Pexels

 

Business meetings, school fundraisers, basketball practice, and piano lessons–the list of activities most people try to juggle could go on and on. Many times they’re all good things so how do you find a balance that leaves you a little time to breathe…and sleep?

 

You have to plan your day with purpose. If you don’t start your day with a plan, you’ll find yourself struggling to keep up with work, family, and personal needs. You can do it, and still get the rest you need to leave you on top of your game.

Give Yourself the Gift of a Clear Mind and More Energy with Quality Sleep

Adults need seven to eight full hours of sleep. Keeping your work and personal life in balance is a lot easier when you’re getting those full eight hours. Sleep helps:

 

  • Boost the immune system
  • Control hunger and eating choices
  • Improve your mood
  • Enhance work and athletic performance

 

There are steps you can take to improve your sleep hygiene so that you can find a better balance. Set yourself up for success by:

 

  • Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. It will be easier, and your body will feel more rested with a regular sleeping schedule. This helps to set your circadian clock, which means your body will naturally release hormones to help you feel tired or awake at the right times of the day.
  • Keeping your bedroom cool. Most people sleep comfortably at 65-72 degrees. You might have to try a few different temperatures until you find one that works for you.
  • Exercising regularly. Exercise invigorates the mind and helps wear out the body so that you’re ready for bed at night. Just be sure you don’t do vigorous exercise within four hours of your bedtime, otherwise, you might have trouble falling asleep.
  • Checking your bedding and mattress. An old mattress with lumps and indentations can often be the source of restless sleep. Clean, breathable sheets, a supportive mattress, and comfortable pajamas can make a big difference to your comfort.

Prioritize and Learn to Say No

Finding balance means deciding what’s important and what isn’t. As much as you’d like to, you can’t do and be everything to everyone. Saying no once in a while builds healthy boundaries and helps you set your priorities so that you’re spending your valuable energy on the people and activities that matter most.

 

Many people feel guilty saying no, but here are some ideas on how to do so with confidence and kindness:

 

  • Keep it simple. Say no, state your reason why, and move on. Elaborate excuses aren’t needed. The truth should speak for itself.
  • Be ready to say it again. Be ready to say no again. You may be asked to do something more than once. You may even have to state your reason again too.
  • Be kind and respectful. You never know when the tables may turn, and you may be the one doing the asking. Show kindness and respect to the person or group by acknowledging their efforts, but firm in your decision.

 

When you’re prioritizing, your spouse and children are most likely at the top of your list. If you’re having a hard time finding time to spend together as a family, what activities could you eliminate? Establish how much time you want to spend together as a family and work any extra activities around that special time rather than the other way around. When you plan ahead, you determine how, where, and with whom you spend your time.

 

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