It is important for overall mental health to have balance in life. One of the things that most struggle with is work/life balance. Basically, having a life where you are able to focus on the things that are important to you, while also making an income, which would most likely support your outside life. Work/life balance is not easily achievable and usually begins with boundary setting.

“Boundary setting is the process of setting limits about how you want and expect to be treated. It involves creating an invisible fence that protects you from emotional attacks, helps keep your decision-making process aligned to your values, and reduces the chance of you being pushed around by others. By setting boundaries, you are telling others how you want to be spoken to, touched, and treated psychologically and emotionally” (Niceaholic, 2023).

Once you have established boundaries with work hours, family connections, and also personal connections, then, you will be able to balance everyday life better. Balancing life should also include self-care time and a support system.

“Self-care is the practice of taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional health. It involves making choices that promote your well-being and reduce stress” (Saxena, 2023).

Additionally, a strong support system will help a person when they cannot seem to juggle or balance all that life can potentially throw our way. “A support system is a group of people who provide you with support when you need it most. This can be mental, emotional, or practical, such as with finances, childcare, etc. They are also there when things are going well to sustain you and keep you going” (Harper, 2023).

While maintaining a work/life balance, make sure to integrate some self-care time, a strong support system, and a mental health check-in periodically, to ensure you are effectively managing day to day life.

References:

Harper, C. (2023, June 22). How to build a support system for your mental health. MyWellbeing.

Niceaholic, B. (2023, March 4). What is boundary setting? A guide to getting your life back.

Saxena, M. (2023). What is Self-Care?. MSN: Ask a Healthcare Professional.