‘Work life balance’ is a phrase we hear bandied about a lot. Apparently it’s important! Grizzly stories of ‘burn out’ abound, and we’re told prevention is better than cure. So, what exactly is work life balance and how can we achieve it?
Work life balance refers to our ability to balance our paid work responsibilities and goals with our personal responsibilities and goals.
Broken down, this means balancing paid work commitments like working hours, duties and career advancement with personal commitments such as children, extended family, recreational activities and community work. Add study to the mix and life can seem overwhelming.
Study can however provide the perfect vehicle for changing your life. We know that learning stimulates the brain and gives us a sense of achievement and meaning. It also enables us to change jobs – either a complete change of career or a step up that provides more satisfaction or reward.
By increasing our ability through learning, we are better equipped to be masters of our own destinies. We can be firmly in the driving seats of our own lives rather than hapless backseat passengers.
If you feel stuck in a rut take the time to do a stocktake. What’s taking up your time? What would you rather be doing? Would a change of job, career or workplace help balance the scales?
If work isn’t the culprit of robbing your wellbeing, perhaps you need to find fulfilment elsewhere. Learning a new skill or taking up a hobby can provide meaning and enjoyment in your downtime. Who knows, you could start something and end up being paid for pursuing your passion!
Worried that study will take up even more of your precious time? It doesn’t need to. Online learning is the perfect solution to busy lives, with flexible options allowing you to study around your other commitments. You can find a course that allows you to learn at the pace that best suits you.
Life’s too short for all work and no play. Identify what brings you joy and pursue it. Whether it’s a career change, learning a new skill, or a change of pace to allow more family time, it’s in your hands.
At eCampus NZ we offer a range of online courses that allow students to study in a way that suits them. There are part-time and full-time options and personal advisors to support you every step of the way. Make a change and follow your dream.