About two weeks ago, we had a discussion where the topic was similar to what we have here. It was about work and rest; the need to recognise the importance of rest as much as work is important and we're constantly encouraged to work. Obviously, “no food for a lazy man,” so it's quite understandable when people are encouraged to work and never be lazy. But where do we draw the line, and when do we consider the importance of rest as well?
Balancing work and personal life should be a step everyone is taking and being intentional about. Work is important, if we don't work we won't have our needs met. If you don't work, you're certainly on the journey of irresponsibility and only a liability to others. So yes, work is very important for livelihood and survival. No one can or should deny that. To achieve our dreams, goals, aspirations and all, we need to put in the work that's needed.
The big issue is when we do all the work with little to no consideration for our personal lives. One's personal life comprises rest, spending time with family and loved ones, recreation and other important interests that take one off work. There could also be vacation, visiting friends, hanging out, some entertainment and all that. This requires good time management, setting boundaries, putting priorities on personal life and value for every of that moment.
It's of immense benefit when we learn to balance our work life and personal life. There should be a healthy work-life dynamic, for several reasons. One is for the sake of one's health. I've heard stories of people who worked hard and gave little to no time for rest and personal time. In the end, they ended up spending a lot of the fortune they made on their health. I guess one way to also consider our personal lives in relation to work is health checks.
When there's balance, spending time with family is possible. Family should be the people who matter most. Sadly, many get disconnected from their family because of work, and some such that their children don't even enjoy time with them. I think this should also be a call to managers and owners of companies, organisations, and all to consider this for their workers. On the workers' part, they should do well to create that time even if not afforded.
A healthy work and personal life relationship will leave one fulfilled in their work and their life. Because many people have put all their energy and time into work leaving their personal life to suffer, life becomes boring, overwhelming and tiring as it's the same routine always. When a balance is brought into the picture, it affects life in a way that feels more positive, fulfilling and desirable. A balance between work life and personal life is necessary.
