Making Changes – A Work Life Balance Blog by Alison
I’ve watched the evolution of the subject of work life balance over my working life. During my early days the thought of anyone attempting a work life balance conversation would be considered disengaged or unambitious. These days perceptions are moving more towards seeing work life balance as an aspiration achieved by people with self-worth, confidence and the ability to be efficient and successful!
I was part of the first call centre job share manager positions in one of my places of work. Two women both pregnant and wanting to retain our position as managers – it hadn’t been done before but we campaigned for it so we could have the time with family. It worked – you don’t get if you don’t ask! Articulate how you work best to your employer, negotiate and work in ways that will help them trust you. Bringing the best version of yourself to the workplace and to your personal space is what employers will want.
People’s relationship with work has changed, many people are choosing work places with choice and more autonomy and employers are recognising this.
So I’ve evolved over the years too and been fortunate enough to work for and with people who care and who recognise the benefit of an employee having a balanced work and home life. Some changes happened naturally over time and for the first time whilst writing this blog I’ve been forced to think about what the changes were and how it all happened.
To start with I recognise that the obstacles I faced were always ones that I put there rather than my employer. I’ve always been supported but would also say I’ve always been positive, hardworking and committed so I’m sure that helped. The biggest challenge for most is being efficient during the working day, I’ve recognised the most effective ingredients for an efficient working day are:
· Understanding what’s expected of you/ your main objectives – if you don’t know find out.
· A manager that listens and knows you well, someone you can be honest with and who trusts you - If you don’t have that, search for it!
· An environment where you can challenge processes that don’t work; a place where you can comfortably question the purpose of everything you do in order to be efficient and helpful -
Who wouldn’t want that?!
Caring responsibilities happened in times that tipped my world upside down gave me no choice but to concentrate more on that work life balance and managing stress– I’ve had some of my best conversations, best learning opportunities with managers during those times.
Those who have worked with me know that I love Myers Briggs (a personality type indicator) – we’re all something, we all arrive at work for different reasons, at different times with varying backgrounds and preferences, however in life we all need purpose. We recently referred to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs which made me realise that basic needs are one thing but to be at our best it’s about tapping into how we’re left feeling and what elements of life leave us feeling happy and motivated. I’d like to think that my friends and family outside of work deserve the same level of dedication, enthusiasm and motivation as that presented at work. I work on a balance that makes sure there’s no regret or feelings of guilt along with a steady feeling of pride, purpose and contentment.
What changes did I need to make to have harmony and balance in all those areas?
Apart from concentrating on efficiency at work, I realised my personal calendar was key. I needed to plan time with my family, plan time with friends and book holidays in advance. I discovered yoga and have weaved it into each week learning lots about the power of breathing to help with stress.
During lockdown and for many years before that I learned that walking with a friend had a huge impact on how I feel, this helped with health, mood and in turn productivity. Having all these things in place helps me focus on leaving work and recognising that very important personal element of my life.
I’m still working on it – need to remember to break for lunch and move around more during the day – any tips would be very welcomed.
Alison Gibson, Community Chesterfield Community Relations Coordinator.
If you would like to find out more about some of the subjects mentioned in this ‘Work Life Balance Blog Series’ such as: Working Styles & Preferences: understanding yours and flexing to help others, Building and Developing an Exceptional Team, Managing Difficult Conversations or Facilitation Skills – Have a look at our new Training and Tea sessions.
Lasting for 45 minutes these courses are short, convenient and held online via Zoom. Booking is via Eventbrite and all the sessions can be found here bit.ly/CommunityChesterfieldEventbrite Places are limited.
FREE for Community, Voluntary or Third Sector organisations and groups in Chesterfield & NE Derbyshire* AND staff / students of the University of Derby – funded for you by Community Chesterfield.
*£20 for everyone else. (T’c & C’s apply)
