The phrase “work-life balance” has long been associated with lines clearly separating your work life from your personal life. When those lines start to blur, it’s time to rebalance your priorities. The steps you take to redraw those lines are the same strategies you can use to manage your money.
Adapt to changing needs
Flextime and telecommuting are becoming increasingly commonplace in today’s office environment. Sometimes personal needs arise such as a sick child or a repairman’s visit, that spill in to your workday. Managing both personal and work commitments at the same time means adapting to a different way of working, such as arranging to work from home for a while.
Apply the same concept of adaptability to your financial planning. For instance, creating personal financial goals is a key part of having a healthy financial outlook. The goals you create today will hopefully see you through the next year or maybe even the next five. But the unexpected can happen, and you may need to make changes. So be flexible in facing what comes next.
As the need arises, revisit your goals to see where, and if, they need adjusting. Figure out how to re-prioritize items that need continued attention, like bills or debt management. For example, if you get a promotion and a pay increase, be ready to adjust your financial goals to pay down debt accordingly!
Take advantage of tech
Need to run out during the day for a doctor’s appointment? Try flagging or answering a few emails on your phone while you’re in the waiting room. You’ll have fewer messages pile up while you’re away.
Want to get a better handle on your finances? Technology can help there, too. Simplify your financial life with a budgeting app you can use on the go or at your desk. By putting all your accounts in one place, you can prioritize your spending, make better financial decisions and work toward achieving financial freedom.
Seek help as needed
If you’re feeling overwhelmed trying to balance work, life and money, take advantage of guidance you may have through your workplace’s Employee Assistance Program. Employers’ work-life wellness programs can connect you to professionals who can help you find workable solutions to certain challenges, like finding care for an elderly parent while you work.
Or, if you’re having trouble keeping up with your monthly bills, a financial counselor can help you develop a plan to consolidate your debt, improve your credit score and achieve a better financial outlook. You may find it easier to make those important decisions to stay on track and meet your financial goals when you know you’ve got someone in your corner.
Like managing your money, finding harmony between your work and home life, requires patience and diligence, and adjustments as needed.