It is difficult enough to find the right balance in work/life matters last thing we need is a “Thief” to take more from us. It all comes at a cost and consequence we need to accept and learn to mitigate.
It starts by creating awareness of the “Four Thieves”. After all, thief’s don’t knock on your door and tell you that they are stealing from you. If you don’t know or understand, one can’t change.
Take a moment to get into the “NOW” and mindful reflect on the four thieves that rob us of time frequently.
- It’s OK to say “NO”
- Fear of Chaos
- Poor Health Habits
- An Environment that doesn’t support your goals
Most of you will relate however struggle with gaining the right balance or too afraid to take action. Inaction will have greater consequences and likely affect the people you love most.
I’m guilty as sin and aware that I over commit to my family’s liking. It’s so difficult to say “NO” when you see a need. I’m the best at convincing myself that I will just get up an hour earlier and do the associated work so my family is not affected by it. Sure enough, I can do the work however the phone calls and meetings are often at times when one should be spending time and paying attention to his/her own family.
Insecurity or fear of failure will prevent you from taking action that would lead to a better balance in time. At times, we have to play in traffic, take a calculated chance, go through some difficulty to make a gain. If you live in constant state of procrastination, time will slip by at a great expense.
A recent study showed that nearly 50% of workers dislike their current job. That is a staggering number and to think that you will likely work for 45 years of your life, you better find something that is aligned with your passion or a company that works with you to reach your goals.
Don’t let life slip you by, don’t be robbed during daylight hours, take action and create new habits. Raise awareness and make progressive steps toward the near perfect work/life balance.
-W
P.S. I highly recommend that you read “The One Thing” by Gary Keller