LIFE’S BET TER WHEN THERE IS BALANCE
AS we emerge from the festive season well rested and full of hope for the new year, many of us have a few resolutions to implement to improve our lives and help us to grow.
This time of year, we are all reminded of what is important and while our careers, businesses and professional commitments form a big part of who we are, the search for work/life balance can often dominate our thoughts and everyone, including business owners, should give this proper consideration.
The concept of work/life balance is something people in Geelong value highly. It is all about prioritising our families, volunteering to help out, taking a break and enjoying our distinct natural environment.
Increasingly, the pressures of work or running a business are making that balance harder to achieve and, even more now, we need to implement the right strategies to achieve the outcomes in life we see as important.
Our vibrant business community will foster the ideas that drive Geelong forward but this community also needs to understand that taking a break and looking after themselves can be quite productive.
Most entrepreneurs will say work/life balance is the biggest challenge they face but it is often the case that the most productive people lead full and well-balanced lives and they are even proven to work harder, too.
While there is a lot of support and information available for people seeking an improved work/life balance, it sometimes seems business owners are more likely to ensure the wellbeing of their staff rather than ensuring the right mix for themselves because they need to own all of the outcomes in their business.
Being your own boss can afford you some flexibility, but many do not take it, and while operating a business can provide people with immense satisfaction, it is still important to make time for activities outside of work.
You should spend time doing the things you enjoy like being with your family, attending social events and maintaining your physical health. Most experts suggest planning some personal time, including regular exercise, as well as reducing some of those activities that can drain you. This may also mean unplugging some of those new technologies serving to extend your work day, take a rest and change your behaviours to be more present in the moment.
Other common recommendations include setting your priorities at work, letting things go, leaving work at work and asking for help through mentoring and networking with other professionals and business owners.
As Geelong becomes increasingly linked to the global business community it is important to remember the kinds of cultural advantages that have been the driving force behind our success.
Guard these things well and remember the work we do drives economic growth by creating jobs and generating useful new products, services and technologies, so make work life balance a part of your purpose and goals for 2020.
The chamber can help with support services that make doing business easier and a broad network of other businesses who are happy to connect, so remember you are not alone.
Have a great 2020!
Ben Flynn is chief executive of Geelong Chamber of Commerce. geelongchamber.com.au