In today’s society, being overworked is more common than not. Being productive is fine, but being overworked is not always productive. When we are overworked, we often make mistakes which can lead to problems. Try these 7 tips to avoid being overworked.
- Me Time – No matter how busy or productive you are, always have “me” time. This is time designated specifically for yourself. Get a mani-pedi, binge watch your favorite show, go to your favorite restaurant, or get a massage. What is the point of constantly working 24/7 if you can’t relax and enjoy yourself?
- Schedule Downtime – In our busy lives, our schedule is constantly overwhelmed. We schedule meetings, tasks, phone conferences, etc… Don’t forget to physically schedule downtime in your planner. Its OK to work hard, but don’t forget to play hard. Create time blocks in your calendar for downtime.
- Create a Routine – By creating a routine, it creates balance in your life. Although you can not plan for the unexpected, you will have a routine to account for regular everyday tasks and activities.
- Absolute Day Off – If possible, have an absolute day off. If you work multiple jobs or 7 days a week, try to at least have a half day off to relax.
- Unplug Often – I know this is easier said than done, but try to unplug often. This can be in conjunction with your “me” time or downtime. Try not to live with your “cell phone on your hip” all of the time. Those many emails and texts can wait.
- Establish Office Hours & Set Boundaries – As a business owner or anyone who deals with clients, establish a time frame in which you will communicate with clients. Don’t answer emails and texts all hours of the day or night. Don’t allow people to interfere with your personal and family time.
- Create Smart Goals – Instead of making random blanket plans for the things you want to accomplish, create SMART goals using the SMART technique. Your goals should be Smart, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely. For additional information on the SMART technique, read our previous post outlining the SMART technique here.
I hope you found these tips helpful. I would love to hear other ideas on how you avoid being overworked. If you need help getting your home and life organized, register for my free “5 Days to an Organized Home & Life” email course. You’ll receive tips and suggestions for five days and a copy of my eBook. You can register for the free course Here.
As always, thanks for stopping by. If you have any organizational or decorating questions, please do not hesitate to ask. I would love to hear from you. For information concerning our decorating services and products, please visit Divine Elements of Design.
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Chrissy says
These are all great tips. Me-time, unplugging and creating a schedule are important to stay focused and not overworking.
Chrissy recently posted…How I Feel In 5 Words.
Divine Elements of Design says
Yes, we schedule everything else… Let’s start scheduling our down time!!!
Kylie Travers says
Completely agree. I switch my phone off regularly and we always make sure we take breaks/have holidays for downtime.
Divine Elements of Design says
Great idea. Thanks for stopping by.
JoJo Tabares says
Quite true! When I was more productive, I was able to do these things. Unfortunately, with several chronic illnesses, my dh out of work for a year and now losing his temp job, my three businesses, and homeschooling my son, overworked is a must if we are to get everything done.
Divine Elements of Design says
Sometimes we have to do what we have to hope. I hope things calm down soon. Also, try not to get overwhelmed. I know it’s easier said than done, but just don’t overdo it.
Kristin says
#4! Leaving the phone and laptop and devices at home and getting away. Even when I leave my phone at home by accident (yes, it happens on especially kooky days), I feel like a weight has been lifted because I just CANNOT check for messages.
Great list!
Divine Elements of Design says
It’s hard to not keep our phones on us, but we must unplug at times. Thanks for stopping by.
Nellwyn says
Unplugging more is one of my goals right now. I’m playing with the idea of turning off all the push notifications on my phone, but I still haven’t taken the plunge!
Nellwyn | http://www.thecardinalpress.com
Divine Elements of Design says
Yes, turning off push notifications is a big plus. Thanks for sharing.
Lauren says
Me time is so important to help me regroup and de-stress! Great tips here!
Divine Elements of Design says
I truly enjoy my “me” time… We must schedule it in.
Willow says
I have been blogging since November 2014, but only within the last month or so have I created two absolute days off. I do create recipes on those days, but that is because I consider it fun and not work. It has helped a lot. I feel refreshed and ready to do the tasks that I don’t like as much on my “work days”.
Divine Elements of Design says
Yes, working 7 days a lot. Having an absolute day off is great to recharge. Thanks for stopping by.
linda spiker says
I love these tips! Too many people associate being busy with being productive. Not the case as you pointed out.
linda spiker recently posted…Grilled Bacon Sriracha Meatball Skewers with Coconut Rice
Divine Elements of Design says
Yes, ma’am… Busy is not always productive. Thanks for stopping by.
Katy says
I love your advice on scheduling downtime! As a business owner, it can be super hard to step away from your social accounts or email but it’s a MUST!
Katy
http://www.coveredstyle.com/sale-alert-new-ann-taylor-dresses-75/
Divine Elements of Design says
Thanks for stopping by. Yes, it is a must.
Aileen says
I am really bad about unplugging and having an absolute day off. I need to make it a priority!
Aileen recently posted…Bath Time Essentials for Babies and Toddlers
Divine Elements of Design says
Yes you do. Thanks for stopping by.
Rachel says
Great tips! Me time is always needed to avoid burning out!
Divine Elements of Design says
Me time is an absolute must.
The Southern Thing says
Such great advice and perfect timing too!
Divine Elements of Design says
You’re very welcome. Thanks for stopping by.
Jenn says
I feel like my husband called you and told you to write this for me, LOL. I so know that this is what is supposed to happen however, I always feel like I need to do more… My over achieving is burning me out. I’m going to take some of your advice and try some of these in the next couple of days! Thank you!!
Divine Elements of Design says
You’re very welcome. Please try to relax and not overwork yourself.
Jules Ruud says
This is a fantastic list. I agree with all of it. I am one that has to schedule down/me time or I won’t do it. Being organized and maki lists and schedules can seem tedious, but eventually it does become second nature. As long as you allow yourself some flexibility, you should be good!
Divine Elements of Design says
You’re right.. You must be flexible and realistic when it comes to list making. Thanks for stopping by.
Kay says
Very helpful. Just what i needed!
Jennifer says
I have been eyeing the these planners for some time. You have given so much detail about this planner that I have definitely made my mind up.
Jennifer says
Ugh, sorry, was trying to comment on the planner Carpe Diem
Ranch Office says
Thank you for sharing these tips! I wish I had read this earlier. And as for being overworked, my rule is “get rest before you get tired”. It really works well 🙂