In order to lead a life with contentment, we need to fulfill all the things that have meaning to us. When we cannot give energy to something we love, we end up feeling like we are missing something - which leads to burnout, dissatisfaction, and stress, and can slowly start affecting our mental health. Being a working woman, it can get even tough to balance all priorities like career, family, and friends and also have time for yourself. Here are a few tips to build and maintain boundaries to lead a happy and satisfying life.
Communicate with Family
Many people believe that they have to make a choice between their career or family and often feel guilty having to put one “above” the other. However, this does not have to be the case - it is possible to balance both. If you feel you need to give some focus on your career, make sure to communicate with your family. Talk to them and make them understand that you will have to attend to your work, but also reassure them that you will be available for them and will still support them. Gently explain to them why you need to prioritize your career and why it is meaningful to you- and set an example to them so that they also understand the importance and value of leading an independent life.
Plan your Schedule
Spend time to reflect on what you want to give your time to, and create your schedule accordingly. Discuss and collaborate with your work team to build a plan where you can accommodate your needs. For example, if you want to spend the evening with your family, try to arrange your meetings and calls early during the day.
Make time for yourself
The most important thing is to have time and space for yourself! Make sure you give at least a few minutes of me-time to relax, introspect and reflect, which will allow you to realize what you value and need. Ensure that you are able to continue to take up your hobbies and do things that bring joy to yourself and define you as a person. Remember, you cannot give what you do not have - so make sure at the end of the day, you are able to care for yourself.
About the Author
Meghana Ganesh is a Community Manager at Her Second Innings. She is a Computer Science Graduate with a passion for women’s empowerment and equality, and diversity hiring in organizations.
Her Second Innings supports women professionals on a sabbatical in their journey of getting back to work. The mission of HSI is to guide women to achieve financial independence. Support from HSI comes in the form of job interviews, reskilling programs in Automation and, free Career Guidance Counselling. Sign up with us and complete your profile to get a call from our counselors to know your job fit.
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