Most of us say we are not defined by our work......and yet work consumes the majority of our waking moments. How do we find balance between life and work that benefits both? How do we meet the demands of healthcare delivery and at the same time nourish and grow in our personal lives?
These aren't new questions but now when the demands of the healthcare culture seem to be over-whelming, it is more important to find and keep the balance we so very much need in our lives.
- keep a sense of humor - not taking ourselves too seriously and finding those moments of humor even at work is an important way to keep perspective.
- living our values - what/who do we value? How do we show that we value them? Knowing and keeping what's most important in our lives at the epicenter of our lives keeps us centered.
- living "people are more important than things" - I could write volumes on this subject.....but think the point is made.
- investing in people - we make progress at work and in our private lives because we invest in the people around us. We invest in their future, their growth, their ability to use their skills and talents in ways they choose and not just in ways we need them to.
- take time to think - think about where we are ...where we are going......time to read......to just relax and enjoy what's around us.....stop the "doing" long enough to make sure what we are doing is what's right and needed.
- move - whether it's a regular exercise program, walking the stars instead of taking the elevator, walking the dog or mall walking.......move.....find ways and time to exercise your body.....you will be amazed what it will do for your brain.
- talk to a kid - kids have such simple expectations.......they see the world simply....and often make us laugh. Talking to my grand-daughters has taught me that big questions usually have simple answers and that having fun is truly an important part of our lives.
Finding balance is difficult.......you have to make it a priority and it isn't always easy.....but will help us become who we really want to be and also help us be better leaders in healthcare......and right now, leadership is really needed.
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