When I asked entrepreneurs to define work-life balance, I got the sort of answers you’d expect: ideas like feeling in control, having a life, and enjoying the present. But one answer stood out: Elissa Kravetz, partner of Kravetz PR, said,
“Checking at least 3 things off on my daily to-do list, playing ball at the park with my dog Lillee, and being able to fall asleep with no anxiety!”
At first my philosophical brain thought, “That’s not a definition!” But maybe work-life balance needs to be more than an abstract concept to each of us. Maybe it’s better if we can pick three things that make our day a good day.
As Nigel Marsh notes in his TED talk, you’ve got to be realistic. While his ideally balanced day consists in playing sports at lunch, meeting friends at the pub, and having sex four times, that won’t be happening anytime soon. But picking three things to accomplish can be manageable and focus your priorities.
What three things make up a balanced day for you? Tell us on Twitter! Here are some examples from the Tech Cocktail team:
“1) Meditation and/or exercise in the morning. 2) Having a productive, focused day at work. 3) Getting outside for a walk or time with friends”
– Jen Consalvo, COO
“1) Work out in the morning, done by 7:30am. 2) Make one sale and/or at least move the ball on one sale. 3) NOT be in my office working when the sun sets so I can see it!”
– Steve Kann, VP of sales and business development
“1) Time to think about, converse and serve others. If I’m working too much, I get too self-centered. 2) Ability to organize, prioritize, and accomplish my work tasks on a daily basis. 3) Being able to enjoy my work responsibilities enough that I get excited for work and for new challenges”
– Kim Blackburn, event coordinator
“1) Early morning stretch followed by at least a two-mile walk/run with Eloise, my English Springer Spaniel. 2) One good solid home-cooked meal with fresh produce, fruit, and a protein or great dinner plans with husband and/or significant friends when traveling on the road. 3) Time for reading and thoughtful reflection to relax before bed. Device-free – no computer screen, laptops, iPad, TV in room.”
– Mary Ellen Delaney, chief happiness officer