When to Say “No” For Better Work and Life Balance

Like many Americans, you likely aspire to give your 100 percent best effort to your day. While a dedicated work ethic will help you meet your professional and financial goals, you should always seek to maintain a healthy work-life balance! 

One simple action will keep your workload (and your sanity!) under control: Learn to say “No!” when it’s appropriate. 

It is perfectly healthy to say “No” to the following: 

Distractions and Procrastination: How often do you say, “I’ll do this later”? Procrastination is a very common workplace issue. This is often because people are more likely to avoid tasks they find intimidating. To avoid procrastinating, break your tasks into smaller, simpler steps. If you consistently push off important tasks in exchange for more enjoyable activities, you may need to retrain your brain to focus. Set your phone and social media aside while you work; studies show that frequent swapping between tasks can decrease your mental performance, a phenomenon known as the “switching effect.”   

A Party or Two:  Structure your social schedule with both your mental health and budget in mind. While it is important to make time for friends and family, it is also perfectly normal to turn down an invitation to a dinner, birthday, or wedding from time to time; particularly if the activity will adversely affect your ability to meet your long-term goals. 

Too Much Work: Don’t overfill your plate! If your work docket is jam-packed, it is okay to turn down the offer of more work. Overwork and mounting pressure will only impede your performance. At the same time, if your overwork is due to a lack of organization, focus, or discipline on your part, you’ll benefit from the guidance of a trusted mentor to help you course correct. So if you feel overwhelmed, talk to an experienced mentor. They can help you find ways to accomplish your goals and still find time for your health, family, and friends.

Your Urges: Resist that urge to overspend or indulge in an unhealthy habit. Stick to your goals! Splurge shopping, an undisciplined work schedule, or an unhealthy snack here and there can derail your financial goals (and your diet!) before you know it. Reward yourself intentionally with restorative activities, like exercise, meditation, and other forms of relaxation. Best of all, many of these are free! 

Seeking balance? Learn more helpful tips and tricks at the Syncis Money Blog.