It can be a challenge when your office is in your dining room. But I have set clear start and end times for my work day and have alarms set on my phone during the day to get up and stop staring at a screen. I am a list maker, so I have a list of things I enjoy doing outside of work. Sometimes I find myself wondering what to do and then I just work, so having the list draws my attention and allows me to think of doing something else other than working.

I make sure that I actually take a lunch and step away from my work space (try to get outside, be active, do something that is not on a device, have a healthy meal). The end of my day isn’t always the same because sometimes I end up working late, but once I am done, I don’t check emails, open my work laptop, or anything work-related. I also make sure I take my vacation days as downtime is very important.

I do not know whether it is “balance” but I definitely will set some time for myself. When it is my times, I will close the computer, do not look at the phone, go outside for a short walk or enjoy my coffee.

It is a life-long challenge/struggle for me. I hope in 2025 to make a few changes and to make them stick finally. Actually taking breaks, and stepping away from the computer, for a few minutes, ever hour or two, is crucial for the mind, body and soul. Having been a workaholic for decades, I am experiencing all sorts of burnout symptoms and side-effects from not paying attention to my needs decades back. Having pets, doing hobbies, and making time for friends and family help for sure.

This time of year for payroll professionals is always a lot more work because of payroll YE. Make sure to get up from your desk and move around. I learned this the hard way and ended up with a pelvis and back injury recently. I am spreading my hour long lunch break out into a 30 min lunch break and two 15 min walk breaks instead.