We are told our whole lives that it is essential to maintain balance in many different aspects of our lives including our diets, exercise habits, and work-life ratio. However, with technology blurring the boundaries between work and our personal lives, easy and affordable access to fast food, and a lack of time, motivation, and energy to exercise, we neglect to meet the standards that are necessary for a healthy and satisfying life. By taking steps to create a balanced lifestyle we expose ourselves to the many health benefits, allow ourselves to grow on a deep and personal level, while also increasing our productivity
Senior marine biology student, Jessa Dell’aquila, said, “a balanced diet is an important factor to get the most out of everyday life. A healthy diet will provide you with the essential nutrients needed to function throughout the day.” By prioritizing eating balanced meals, we prevent ourselves from depriving or over consuming while simultaneously fueling our bodies, promoting healthy habits, and giving us the energy to carry on throughout the day.
Aside from food, work-life balance has a major impact on our health. According to an article by Ana Sandoiu for Medical News Today titled, “Poor Work-Life Balance Leads to Poor Health Later in Life,” a poor work-life balance can lead to higher risk of stroke, coronary heart disease, depression, and anxiety. Additionally, sleep deprivation, a common consequence of a poor work-life ratio, has been linked to, “cardiovascular disease and an increased risk of death causing myocardial infarction.” By implementing intentional efforts to create a healthy work-life balance there is more time to de-stress, do the things that make us happy, be creative, and spend time with the people who love and inspire us making us healthier and happier now and later in life. Senior communication major, Bailey Fredericks, explained, “I think having a good work life balance is important because you can’t have all work and no play, else or you will burn out; on the other hand, you can’t only mess around and not dedicate time to work.”
In addition to benefiting our health, making time for creativity allows us to learn and grow. A work schedule that offers time for hobbies and physical activity prevents stagnancy, keeping life interesting and exciting which aids in strengthening our relationships and generating personal fulfillment.
Finally, accompanying the many health benefits and personal growth and development, a balanced lifestyle also promotes productivity. A routine that consists of work, eat, sleep, repeat calls for a quick burnout. However, implementing exercise, hobbies that serve as creative outlets, and balanced meals productivity will skyrocket. Spending time away from work reduces stress and allows for time to rest and reset.
By staying physically active, using food as fuel, and staying well rested we are able to return to work with energy and feeling refreshed, productive, and motivated.
