The Work-Life Balance Strategies of Women Groups Online
As social networking for women flourishes, an online community for women to explore and share hobbies has developed.
As technology has evolved, achieving a work-life balance has become increasingly elusive. By participating in women groups online, you can discover new strategies for reducing stress and ensuring your work responsibilities do not constantly overshadow other aspects of your life such as family and friends. A common theme found in women's social networks is that taking care of oneself makes a world of difference when shaping a fulfilling, multi-dimensional life. Turning off your iPhone, Blackberry, or other mobile device may sound like the simplest way to make room for a personal life outside of work, but for many, it is actually one of the hardest things to do. Employers expect that we are reachable 24-7, and employees worry that if they miss that one critical call, they will irrevocably harm their career. Women, in particular, feel pressure to convince employers that their family commitments never detract from their professional performance. As with many things in life, the solution involves compromise. Unless you are officially on call, turn off all electronic devices when you sit down to dinner. Dinners with family and friends offer an opportunity to connect, share the details of our day, and simply enjoy each other’s company. For those nights we are flying solo, it is probably the first genuine break in a busy day, and a chance to decompress and rejuvenate. The truth of the matter is that there is very little in this world that cannot wait an hour before being tackled. Therefore, even if your screen fills with email or voicemail notifications the minute you turn it on, you can jump back into being the consummate professional who never misses a beat and still have benefited from some time away from the demands of a digital world. Also, try to set aside 30 minutes a day to focus solely on you. This can take the form of a workout, reading a book, relaxing in a bath, or sitting quietly in contemplation or prayer. The best ways to nurture our mind, body, and spirit will vary greatly based upon our personalities. The important thing is not what you do to take care of yourself, but that you actually devote some time each day to your own well-being. Connect with others about something other than work. Whether you are engaging in a lively discussion with other members of an online women’s group, touching base with a dear friend over the phone, or enjoying a walk around your neighborhood with your partner, spending 15-30 minutes a day focusing on non-work related things, will remind you that there is more to life than your career and there is more to you than your professional abilities. In many ways, these sound like common sense suggestions, but it can be easy to overlook the fundamental, most basic ideas when surrounded by so much activity and noise. Participating in women groups online is another way to be reminded that the key to a true work-life balance is dedicating a small portion of your day to you and the people and things you love outside of work. When you do that, you truly can be the best version of yourself, personally and professionally, which is what a balanced life is all about.
