By Jade Vincent
22nd July 2022 | Edison Search
Whilst we all have different stresses and priorities in life, one thing that I think many of us could agree on is the trial and error process of finding what works best for us as individuals and for our families. According to this global survey, one third of full-time workers are struggling with getting the right work / life balance and it highlights that parents and younger generations are hit the hardest.
So how do we do it?!
Personally, it has taken me a while and I am of course still learning (aren’t we all!) but one thing that I can confidently state is that having the support around me from friends and family has been absolutely paramount on my journey. Within that support group, it goes without saying how important it is to have an employer who also has a focus on helping you find that balance and looking after your wellbeing.
For those that don’t know, I am a very proud mum of 2 children, my daughter Ellis who is 4 years old and my son Remy who is 1. Sometimes life in general can feel a little busy shall we say and my husband runs his own business which I assist with where I can (back office – my knowledge of gas / heating engineering is very limited and I am pretty sure that no one would like me trying to fix anything in that department!). In addition, I have my own job role at Edison Search – something that I never thought would be feasible. This is due to the fact that Ellis has additional needs and is non-verbal which means she is unable to communicate any of her needs and wants to me. I will be honest, the last few years have been somewhat tricky and I never thought I would be able to balance my own role whilst tackling the job of a mum to a child with additional needs and a baby. But here I am – genuinely happier than ever.
For me, the top things that have helped me find that work/life balance are;
- My employer – Edison Search understand my life outside of work because they have listened and cared. Family and looking after their employees is key to them which I will be forever grateful for.
- My support group – knowing some days are harder than others but are still always there, sounds cliché I know!
- Accepting when you need time out – it’s OK to have time off and do something just for yourself! This may seem an obvious one but some struggle to take advantage of this option. You will be surprised how much more engaged and refreshed you will feel.
- Time Management – we only have a certain amount of time in the day – use it effectively and don’t be burnt out by bedtime!
- Prioritising – prioritise those tasks, some will always be more urgent and don’t feel pressured to complete your entire to do list in one day.
- Staying focused on my goals
- Meditation – one I never even considered until recently yet now highly recommend – thanks to Edison Search and Penny Metcalf. During mental health awareness week, Edison Search arranged for Penny to visit the office and teach us how to be mindful and included a meditation session. I have taken these skills onboard and use them very often when needing to clear my mind. Thank you Penny!
I am sure this work/life balance will constantly change for several reasons and be an ongoing process for us all but hopefully focussing on the above foundations will help me get it right.
Do you have the right balance and support in place?
