Recognizing when your life is out of balance (and how to get it back)

By | January 4, 2016
Work-Life Balance

Work-Life Balance

Are you balancing your life or is stress taking its toll? Take a look at these warning signs of someone who is out of balance:

  • Vague sense of unease or being unsettled.
  • Unable to sleep properly.
  • Can’t shake a cold, or get several illnesses in a row.
  • Shortened temper.
  • Forgetful.
  • Less energy.
  • Desire to overeat.

These symptoms make take up to several months to appear, but they are gentle hints that you need to stop and take care of yourself, according to the ADA Center for Professional Success. Your dental practice may be affected if you don’t have the energy you need to be at your best.

Meditate your way to a more balanced life

One easy way to regain control of a stress-filled life is to meditate or do visualization exercises each day. Simply finding a quiet room and unplugging for a few minutes can make a big difference.  You can sign up for local meditation classes in your community, or simply take a few minutes each day to refresh, recharge and renew on your own. Benefits can be realized in just a few minutes a day.

Here are some things to try:

  • Find a quiet room with no distractions.
  • Turn off your mobile phone.
  • Put on some relaxing music.
  • Clear your mind.
  • Reflect on how lucky you are to be working in such a great profession.
  • Think about a positive patient interaction you had that day.

Other ways to reduce stress include cutting down on caffeine consumption, eating a healthier diet and getting regular exercise.

 

3 thoughts on “Recognizing when your life is out of balance (and how to get it back)

  1. Dr. Jamie Sieng

    A great post to remind us all to keep your mental health in mind while practicing. As a new practice owner / new mom running a start-up I have also found yoga to be really helpful in keeping sane. We all need to take measure to avoid having burnout. I have been reading through these blogs and want to thank the ADA for providing such a great resource for younger dentists!

    Reply
  2. Jennifer

    This is great advice on how to practice maintaining good mental health. We all need to schedule time in our busy schedules to dedicate sometime for ourselves.

    Reply
  3. Pingback: Recognizing when your life is out of balance (and how to get it back) – Aiea Family Dental

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