Work-life balance is a struggle for many women with family responsibilities. How do you manage it personally? How do you keep the stress level in check?
We all take on multiple roles or as some say wear many hats in our lives, whether we are a single woman, a wife, a mother, a daughter, a manager, an assistant, and the list goes on. As a result, we each face unique challenges managing work and personal responsibilities no matter the circumstance.
I believe that handling everyday tasks in the workplace and at home isn’t about striking a balance; rather, it’s about connectivity and integration.
Many people feel that they need to compartmentalize their work and personal lives. Instead, I bring my whole self to work and include my family and friends in my professional experiences.
I believe it’s important to understand who you are as a person and embed elements of “you” into all facets of your life, so you don’t lose yourself. Your sense of self will guide your priorities and will help you stay focused on what really needs to get done. It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the stresses and pressures in life, and if you don’t stay connected to yourself and the people around you, you will ultimately compromise your core values and forego the benefits of gaining perspective from others.
I am assertive, and like to think of myself as a major driver. This quality helps me prioritize, develop plans, honor my commitments and challenge the status quo. I like to be the champion of the projects and causes I get involved in and try to advance everything around me. I also try to be creative in the way I approach developing others, leading projects, and even making the best item for my son’s bake sale. I’ve even turned to modern technology like Apple FaceTime when I can’t be home due to work obligations.
With that, I recognize that I am incredibly lucky to work for a company that supports workplace flexibility. I’ve had the opportunity to be a key influencer in the development of the resources we offer, including flexible work schedules, telecommuting and job share programs. By recognizing that every employee has unique needs and preferences for different work styles, our policy is designed to provide diverse work arrangements that enable employees to maximize their contributions to the company.
I encourage others to be bold and challenge the way that things are done in order to foster an environment that brings personal and work responsibilities in harmony with little compromise.
