Joko Susilo posted on LinkedIn

“Work is a subset of life, not a superset”

As a former workaholic, I kind of love this guidance 🙂 Your life is a collection of various components that make it whole, and striking a balance between them is key to achieving long-term happiness and success. While we spend a significant portion of our time at work or thinking about work it’s crucial to recognize it shouldn’t be the only defining factor.

Work is Just One Piece of the Puzzle

While professional success and financial security are super important, it’s vital not to let work become the superset that dominates and overshadows everything else. By only focusing on this one aspect, we risk neglecting other critical areas that contribute to a fulfilling life, such as relationships, health, and personal growth.

Remember that work is a means to an end, not the end itself. It provides us with the resources and opportunities to enjoy and enhance other areas of our lives.

“But what if I really love what I do?” often comes up in work/life balance discussions. It’s 100% okay to find joy in your work. That said, (1) being intentional about this being where you want to spend your time for fun and (2) acknowledging not everyone may be in the same position are important factors.

Creating a Well-Rounded Life

Here are some practical steps you can take to build a balanced life:

– Prioritize Relationships: Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with family, friends, and loved ones. Set aside dedicated time to connect and nurture these bonds, as they provide a vital support system and emotional balance.

– Invest in Your Health: Make a conscious effort to prioritize your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Exercise regularly, eat healthily, practice stress-reduction techniques, and seek professional help when necessary.

– Pursue Personal Interests: Carve out time for hobbies and interests outside of work. Engaging in activities you’re passionate about can lead to increased happiness, reduced stress, and a greater sense of fulfilment.

– Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Avoid working excessively long hours or bringing work home. By setting limits, you can protect your time and energy for other essential aspects of life.

– Embrace Lifelong Learning: Keep learning and growing, both personally and professionally. Pursue new experiences, acquire new skills, and challenge yourself to be the best version of yourself.

– Reflect and Reevaluate: Regularly take time to reflect on your life and assess whether you’re maintaining a healthy balance. Adjust your priorities and commitments accordingly to ensure you’re living in alignment with your values and aspirations.

If it’s right for you, don’t let work dominate the entire picture; instead, aim to create a well-rounded and balanced life that encompasses all the different aspects that bring meaning and fulfilment to your existence.

Illustration: GoLimitlesss

#productivity #softwareengineering #work