Finding a Better Work/Life Balance

A work/life balance is not an impossible pipe dream. It can be achieved through collaboration between an employee and employer. If your manager understands that your work is still going to get done and that it will be of the highest quality, he or she is more likely to make the right decision about giving you the flexibility that you need. After all, it's a win-win situation.

One of the most important things you can do for yourself in trying to achieve that balance is to give yourself sufficient time. For example, as you face the summer scramble - trying to attend to all of your children's end-of-year activities and setting up their summer schedule - start your planning as early as possible. In February or March, you'll have a much greater number of programs to choose from. By late June, many good programs are already filled up.

Here are some additional tips about achieving a better work/life balance from WebMD:

1. Figure Out What Really Matters to You in Life. Make sure that they are really your priorities, not what you think your priorities ought to be.

2. Drop Unnecessary Activities. Consider cutting those activities that don't make your top-five list. They keep you away from the things that really matter to you.

3. Protect Your Private Time. Try to respect your own private time. Carve out some special hours for yourself and then guard that time fervently.

4. Accept Help to Balance Your Life. Rely on your partner, family members, or friends -- anyone who can watch the kids or run an errand -- while you focus on other top priorities. Try tag-teaming: "I'll watch your kids this Saturday if you watch mine next Saturday." It's a great way to create extra free time.

5. Plan for Fun and Relaxation. You plan for everything else in your life - why not fun? If being happy in life is a top priority for you, then you'll find the time.