Spring is often the busiest time for painters and decorators. People are doing their spring cleans, and it’s reminding them how shabby some parts of their properties are. They look at their exteriors and think they could use some maintenance. There’s the saying, ‘make hay while the sun shines,’ and while spring and summer are great times to blitz through work, with long days and drier weather, it can also be difficult to juggle work and out-of-work commitments.
Here are a few tips to balance your work life and personal life…
Love your work
‘Find a job you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life’ is some of the best advice I’ve received. If you can shift your attitude toward your work so you genuinely look forward to it, it has a huge impact on how you feel about life.
Take pride in what you do, give the best service, be genial and thoughtful so customers love having you around, and practise gratitude for your work, customers, tools, and skills.
Plan your leisure
When you’re swamped with work, especially if you’re behind, it’s easy to think you can’t afford time off. I’ve been there. But planning some downtime and clearly communicating with customers and family that you’re taking it, gives you something to look forward to, even if you love your job. It’s important to take time to spend with loved ones, take time for hobbies, or just chill. Often, during these breaks, we gain new perspectives on life. And as they say, all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.
Ebb and flow
Some prefer working eight hours a day, five days a week. Others like to go all out on a job and then take more time off to relax. We all work differently—find what works best for you.
I’m a ‘flat out and chill out’ type, so I can work 60-80 hours a week for a few weeks, then take time off. You don’t need to be extreme, but find your balance and understand the ebb and flow of work and play.
Time management
Managing time is impossible but managing your work and personal activities is crucial. Build buffer time between jobs when possible and try to stay flexible with clients on deadlines. Sometimes you’ll need to work longer hours, but ensure you have rest time afterward. None of us are getting any younger.
Your health
Taking care of your health and safety is essential because nothing derails a good work-life balance more than sickness or injury, I know this to my cost. So take care of yourself, your colleagues, and your equipment. Stay hydrated, minimize exposure to dust and VOCs, take breaks when needed, and stay focused on the job at hand.
Setting boundaries
Setting clear boundaries with yourself and your clients is crucial. Make sure your clients know your work hours, days, and the scope of the project. Clarity reduces stress – uncertainty creates it. Learning to say ‘no’ professionally, politely, and with understanding can be an art, but as the professional, you must manage your time and commitments effectively.
Grow
A fulfilling life is about growth – business growth, personal growth, and helping those around you grow. With costs rising, you need to increase your prices to keep up. Grow your skills, become more efficient, and charge accordingly. As you learn new techniques, tools, and business skills, you’ll feel accomplished. The more you grow, the more you can help others, which is highly satisfying.
The switch
It’s essential to know when to completely switch off from work. Put your phone down and turn off notifications. Be present with family, friends, or your hobbies. Being fully engaged in your leisure time will make it feel more refreshing and rounded.
In Conclusion
A good work-life balance is more than just a 9-to-5 job and having a pint on the weekend. It’s about maximizing each day, week, and month. It’s about enjoying your work and being fully present in your leisure time, giving and receiving the best life has to offer.
Want to learn more?
Find me at www.chinbadgermedia.co.uk
