Tips for balancing professional life and personal life during times of struggle and loss.
It can be difficult to find a balance between our work and personal lives during such times. Whether you’re experiencing the end of a relationship, the disappointment of plans falling through or conflicts with loved ones, the urge to allow your emotions to control all aspects of your life can be overwhelming. While sometimes working can bring solace and a distraction from problems, other times you simply can’t concentrate. Your attention just isn’t there.
During those times, it is important to remember that you work in order to have a good life, not the other way around. It is acceptable to have days where you don’t feel 100% and can’t give your best. On the other hand, though, it is important not to be so preoccupied with your feelings that you are unable to come out of them and move forward after a bit of time has gone by. Fortunately, there are ways that you can help yourself balance your emotions and your commitments during hard times.
Tips for Finding Work-Life Balance
First of all, forgive yourself for not being able to do everything perfectly. No one can grieve an impending divorce, maintain a spotless house, look their best and be incredibly productive at work. Sadness, anger, helplessness and fear are all common emotional responses to troubles at home. These emotions take a lot of energy and it is natural that you will have less left for other things. Don’t push yourself to “get over it” before you are ready to.
Talking about it will help release the pressure, in more ways than one. Talking with friends or trusted advisors will certainly help you sort out your emotions, but it’s important to talk to your employer and your work colleagues too. Use some discretion in what you tell them – but let them know that you aren’t doing well and that you might need a few days grace to get your work done. If you are in a position to, ask for some time off – try working in the morning and then taking the afternoon for yourself, or take a long weekend. However you do it, make sure that the people who will be affected by your lessened productivity are informed about what’s going on so that they can respond to you appropriately.
Stand your ground. Only you will know how much it will take for you to move through the feelings you are experiencing. Others may want to help and offer advice; it is up to you to tell them “no thank you” if you’d rather be left alone. It’s okay to state what you need from your friends and family at this time, whether it’s space, companionship, help with practical things, or just someone to listen. If you can’t get what you need from one person, find someone else.
Finally, treat yourself well. If yoga relaxes you, make an effort to build that into your day. If you love long walks in the part with Fido, grab the leash and get going. Giving yourself the little things that bring you joy will help you find the proper balance of attending to your emotions without letting them rule you.
Getting Through Difficult Times
In time, you’ll find that the crisis has indeed passed, and things are getting better again. You’ll be much more likely to get back to your old self – your old, productive self, that is – by taking a bit of time during emotional upheaval to take care of your feelings.
