Ask those around you: What is a healthy level of work-life balance? There is no definitive answer. It means different things to different people.

There are so many people struggling to juggle heavy workloads and manage a personal relationship or family responsibilities, not to mention sliding in any outside hobbies. One in four Americans describe themselves as “super stressed”, according to Mental Health America. Chronic stress can take control of your daily life, including your health.

Stress in moderation is actually a good thing for your body. Low-level stressors stimulate neurotrophins (the production of brain chemicals) and strengthen the connections between neurons in the brain. A minimal amount of stress actually helps you perform at your best. The key to managing stress: balance. Achieving a healthy work-life balance is attainable. When people are balanced and happy, they are more productive.

Here are a few tips to take

• Organize and prioritize
  • Put things in writing, it helps!
• Set manageable goals each day
  • Checking items off a to-do list actually gives off a high level of satisfaction
• Be efficient with your time – at home and at work
  • Don’t procrastinate
  • Divide larger projects into smaller tasks
• Take a breather
  • 5 minutes will help clear your mind
• Jam out!
  • Listening to your favorite music (moderate level with headphones) can stimulate creativity
• Ask for help
  • At home or at work, ask for advice or assistance with a task
  • DELEGATE
• Communicate!
  • At home or at work, communicate with those around
• Be flexible
  • Things change, life happens
• Unplug!
  • At the end of the day, give yourself time away from electronics
  • You and your family will be thankful

Make sure to take time for yourself.

What other tips do you have for balancing work and personal life? We could all use some more ideas!