Encouraging WorkLife Balance

In a demanding field like tech, work-life balance is crucial for long-term success and well-being. A mentor provides strategies for managing time, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care, acknowledging that a leader is most effective when they are well-rounded and healthy.

In a demanding field like tech, work-life balance is crucial for long-term success and well-being. A mentor provides strategies for managing time, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care, acknowledging that a leader is most effective when they are well-rounded and healthy.

Empowered by Artificial Intelligence and the women in tech community.
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Babatunde Oladepo
Founder at STEM Scholarships for Women
Tue, 12/03/2024 - 02:33

As a mentor, one of the most important lessons I’ve learned and shared with my mentees is the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. In a demanding field like tech, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush—there are always deadlines, meetings, and projects piling up, making it feel like you can never take a break. However, I’ve learned that long-term success and well-being are deeply connected to knowing when to step away and recharge.

I remember when I first started in the tech industry. I was driven, eager to prove myself, and worked around the clock. I thought that if I just pushed hard enough, I would eventually reach the success I dreamed of. But I quickly learned that this mindset wasn’t sustainable. Burnout hit me harder than I expected. My creativity was drained, my energy was low, and I felt disconnected from my personal life. I started resenting the very work I was so passionate about because I had neglected my own health and well-being. It took a significant toll on my productivity and my mental health.

It was only when I reached a breaking point that I realized something needed to change. I began to re-evaluate my approach to work and life. I asked myself: What’s the point of achieving professional success if I’m sacrificing my physical and mental health in the process?

From that moment, I made a commitment to myself to prioritize balance. I set boundaries, learned to say no when necessary, and scheduled time for things outside of work—whether it was exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones. I also realized that sometimes the best way to be productive was to rest—taking time away from work to recharge actually allowed me to come back with more energy and clarity.

Now, as a mentor to other women in tech, one of the key pieces of advice I share is this: You cannot pour from an empty cup. In order to be a strong leader and succeed in your career, you need to be healthy, both physically and mentally.

Here are a few strategies I recommend to my mentees to help them manage their time, set boundaries, and prioritize their well-being:

Set Clear Boundaries: In a fast-paced industry like tech, it’s easy to let work bleed into every aspect of your life. Set clear work hours and stick to them. When you’re off the clock, take that time for yourself—whether it’s for family, friends, or simply unwinding.

Make Self-Care a Priority: Exercise, sleep, and mental health aren’t just buzzwords—they are essential for staying sharp and productive. A walk during lunch or a quick workout in the morning can refresh your mind. Never underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep!

Learn to Say No: Not every opportunity or project is for you. It’s important to say no when your plate is full or when something doesn’t align with your goals. Protecting your time is key to preventing burnout.

Schedule Personal Time: Treat your personal time with the same respect you give to work meetings. Block out time for hobbies, relaxation, or socializing. These moments recharge you, allowing you to return to work with renewed focus and creativity.

Communicate with Your Team: As a leader, it’s essential to model healthy work habits. Encourage your team members to also take time off when needed and show them that work-life balance isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for long-term success.

In my experience, those who master work-life balance not only have better physical and mental health but also perform better in their careers. They come to work energized, clear-headed, and ready to tackle challenges with fresh perspectives.

So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the demands of your tech career, take a step back and assess how you’re balancing work with your personal life. Remember, success doesn’t come from working yourself to the bone—it comes from working smart, maintaining your well-being, and building a sustainable path forward.

The journey is long, and you want to be in the best shape—physically, mentally, and emotionally—to navigate it.

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