Finding Balance When You’re Always on Duty

Daily writing prompt

How do you balance work and home life?

View all responses

Sometimes it’s difficult to balance work and home life. Even though I work from home, I still find myself receiving very little down time for myself. I work as my mom’s full-time caregiver, and it’s quite an intense job. Caring for somebody else is a small act of kindness. This genuinely makes me feel fulfilled because it’s my mom.

I mentioned this in a recent piece. Being a caregiver means putting a lot of dreams and aspirations on hold temporarily. So, I don’t really get much independence or emotional growth in that sense. It’s difficult because there is so much that I want to do. Instead, I chose to help my mom.

I don’t regret that decision at all. Sometimes, I envision what my life could look like right now. I wonder how things might have changed if I didn’t have this current role. Yet, I don’t want to play the game of “This is how my life could’ve been.” That’s just asking for it.

So, what I do for balance is take an hour in the morning and an hour in the evening to dedicate time for things that help me feel grounded. This looks like:

• Meditate and recenter my mind
• Journaling to write out my thoughts and feelings of the day
• Watch some TV to unwind
• Read a book and get lost in it for a while

I need to do things that I enjoy. If I don’t my mental health greatly suffers. The current job I have is already emotionally and physically draining, so I require some self-care.

Finding balance in your work like and home life is essential to enhance your overall well-being. It’s crucial, and should be taken seriously. I know many people have a hard time leaving work mode behind, but you have to get back to yourself. Let the mask fall, and just be yourself. Do the things that bring you joy, and bring back some peace in your life.