"I can't balance my work and personal life, what should I do?"
Problem:
"I can't balance my work and personal life, what should I do?"
"Work-life balance—how to get it back?"
Sender: Hiroshi Takahashi | Software Engineer | Tokyo, Japan
Is it possible to manage work, life, and stress all at the same time?
Hiroshi Takahashi is a software engineer in Tokyo. He starts his morning by checking his email, spends most of his day rushing to meet project deadlines, and ends his evening with office calls. Because of his busy schedule, he doesn't get to see friends, spend time with his family, or even do anything for himself.
As he continues like this, he becomes mentally exhausted. He feels like he lives only for work, and the joys of life are disappearing.
"Do I really have no choice but to do anything? Or is this the reality of modern life?"
What do you do to balance work and personal life?
1. Work for life, not life for work.
✅ Truth: Work is important, but if it becomes your life, the quality of life decreases.
Solution:
- Set work hours. Don't think about work outside the office.
- Learn to say “No”—taking everything on your shoulders will only increase the stress.
- At the end of the day, do something for yourself outside of work (listen to music, read a book, go for a walk).
2. Use time wisely.
✅ Suggestions:
- Create a “Priority List”—determine what needs to be done first and what can wait.
- Take help from technology—use calendars and reminders to ensure work is completed on time.
- Avoid unnecessary meetings or work.
3. Do a digital detox
✅ Solution:
- Reduce checking your phone or laptop outside of work hours.
- Avoid checking emails during dinner or on weekends.
- Enjoy the time spent with family, not the phone screen.
4. Take care of your physical and mental well-being.
✅ Suggestions:
- Walk or exercise for at least 30 minutes every day.
- Get enough sleep - if you don't get enough rest, you won't be able to concentrate at work.
- Try meditation—it can help reduce stress.
5. Maintain hobbies and social life
✅ To-do:
- Set aside some time each week for yourself—where there will be no room for work.
- Spend time with friends, talk to family.
- Learn something new or bring back an old hobby.
Last words
Hiroshi, you are not alone—many people are going through this. But remember, life is not just about work, it is also about personal pleasure. So take time for yourself outside of work, be with your family, and enjoy life.
Do you have any special strategies for dealing with stress at work? Share your experiences!