Greenburgh Public Library Blog

Job Tips in the Virtual World: Work Life Balance

Now that you’ve started your job and have gotten into the groove of things comes the hard part–setting an even work life balance. Setting a balance is hard enough when you are working in another location, but it can become a whole new challenge when your home is your workplace. Having a balance between work and life is important for everyone’s well being, not just your own, however, the definition of “balanced” is truly up to you and what makes you the most content. Here are some tips and tricks to get your balance right:

Time management  - Scheduling out your day is one of the key components of establishing a work life balance. This does not mean you have to fit everything work related into a 9am - 5pm schedule. Maybe you need a bit of a break in between your conference calls. Try scheduling an exercise break. Need to let your mind unwind? Get in a quick 30 minute reading session. Working from home allows flexibility in  schedules (as long as your type of work allows this). Instead of running to the coffee machine on your break, take a five minute stretch or walk around the house and clear your mind. 

Carve out time for yourself - Make sure you are setting time out each week for a fun activity for yourself. Having your office at home can be tempting to turn on that computer at all times of the day and night, but try to avoid that. Try to plan an activity each week that brings you joy. Although our choices can be limited these days, there are still fun things to do from home. Attend a virtual event through the library, stream a movie through Kanopy or relax on the couch with a good eBook for activities that will let your mind escape work mode.

Figure out what is important to you and set goals - Is answering 10 emails in one hour important to you or getting through an hour of a month long project? Once you set goals and achieve them, you will be able to create your balance. Set daily and weekly goals for your tasks. If you achieve your goal, give yourself a break to rest and reset before working on the next. Your brain is like a muscle. When it is exhausted, it is less effective. The best way for it to get stronger is to rest and rejuvenate. 

The Library has a wide variety of resources you can access to get you started in creating the work life balance that is right for you. Lynda.com has three playlists for individuals, managers and division heads that can guide you in the right direction. If you don't have time to take a full course, the Westchester Library System has a vast collection of both physical and electronic books that will teach you different ways to create your custom work life balance.