Forget the work-life balance. Better to integrate it

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Is it unthinkable that you can build a promising career while living a fulfilling personal life? Does all the advice on balancing these two parts of your life seem meaningless to you? If so, what more is possible? The Leading Effectively website came up with another option  to integrating work and personal life.

The ideal solution is if you can easily move from one fulfilling activity to another, regardless of where you are, or if you get paid for it. Probably you are now shaking your head no, saying, "I have to pay rent." However, it is not so difficult.

Of course, if you are self-employed, you have more flexibility  in planning your daily schedule. In addition, if your work is your hobby, it is probably already fulfilling. So  there is nothing else to say. But, if you are not so lucky, your job is probably demanding, stressful or even boring. When you get up in the morning you are already looking forward to going home. If you really feel work is killing your personal life, the solution is not easy or short term. Here it is really more about work-life balance. But if you have a tedious task ahead, it is necessary to integrate a little bit of fun or pleasure into your working day. Too many of us had spend our time working  just to achieve a reward. What ever it is, a salary, vacation or retirement, it is sad that we have to spend a half of our waking day on activities that only earn us money to live our lives

How to reach a harmony?

1. Make a list of what you do best in your job. Then consider how you can spend more time involved in similar activities. Discuss this with your boss.

2. Ask about the possibility of a flexible workday. If you are a valuable employee who performs 100% of the time, you should be able to negotiate something, e.g. a home office or modify your working hours.

3. Think about your skills, interests and the type of conditions that fit you. Look closely at these three aspects and create a plan of action that includes all three.

4. Finally and most importantly. Think about what you are currently doing as your choice  not as a sacrifice to obtain rewards. Remind yourself why you chose this option. If the reason is no longer relevant, think about what else you can to do to create harmony between your personal and professional lives.

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Article source CCL Blog - official blog of the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL®)
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