Embracing Work-Life Balance in Finance

Working in finance for over 20 years has been quite the ride. It’s fast-paced, full of challenges, and always keeps you on your toes. But let’s be real — it can also be super stressful. Over time, I’ve learned that to handle the pressure and keep going, finding a good work-life balance isn’t just a bonus; it’s a must.

The Moment It Clicked: Why Balance Matters

As I’ve gotten older (and yes, a bit greyer), I’ve realized how important it is to step back and take care of yourself. It’s so easy to get caught up in work and forget about everything else. But making time for yourself doesn’t mean you’re slacking. In fact, it makes you better at what you do.

For me, the trick has been finding activities that take my mind off work. Whether it’s a hobby, a sport, or just hanging out with friends or family, these breaks help recharge my batteries and give me a fresh perspective.

My Escape: Bouldering

For me, bouldering has been a game-changer. It’s like a gym workout, but so much more fun. You’re climbing walls, figuring out how to solve different climbing problems, and using your whole body while you do it. Plus, it’s a mental workout too. Every climb is like a puzzle you have to solve, which keeps things interesting.

When I’m climbing, I’m fully in the moment. I’m not thinking about deadlines, meetings, or spreadsheets. It’s just me, the wall, and the challenge in front of me. And when I finally send a problem (bouldering slang for reach the top!)... That’s a feeling that’s hard to beat. Queue fist bumps all round!

How You Can Find Your Balance

If work is wearing you down, here are a few ideas to help you find some balance:

1. Find Something You Love: Pick up a hobby or try something new. It could be anything — painting, hiking, cooking, or even just reading a good book. The important thing is that it makes you happy and gets your mind off work.

2. Get Moving: Exercise is a great way to blow off steam and boost your mood. Whether it’s yoga, running, or something like bouldering, find a way to stay active that you actually enjoy.

3. Change Things Up: If your routine is feeling stale, mix it up! Try a new activity, take a different route to work, or even just rearrange your workspace. Small changes can make a big difference.

4. Set Boundaries: Don’t let work take over your life. Turn off your email after hours, take breaks during the day, and make sure you’re carving out time for yourself.

5. Challenge Your Brain: Find something that keeps your mind busy in a different way, like puzzles, learning a new skill, or even trying a new recipe. It’s a great way to stay sharp and have fun at the same time.

6. Eat Well: A good diet does wonders for your mind, body, and overall health. Eating nutritious meals can boost your energy levels, improve your focus, and help you feel better in every aspect of your life. Fuelling your body with the right foods makes a huge difference.

Why It’s Worth It

Finding balance in your life isn’t always easy, but it’s so worth it. When you take time for yourself, you’ll feel happier, more relaxed, and better equipped to handle whatever work throws your way.

Taking care of your mental health is a big part of this too. High-pressure jobs can wear you down emotionally, so it’s crucial to prioritize activities that help you release that pressure! Healthy habits, like eating whole foods, can play a big role in supporting both your physical and mental well-being. These non processed foods are far better at giving your body the fuel it needs to perform at its best. They can improve your mood, boost your energy, and help you feel more resilient in the face of challenges.

So, take a moment to think about what makes you happy. Maybe it’s something you used to love but haven’t done in a while, or maybe it’s something totally new you’ve been wanting to try. For me, it’s bouldering. For you, it might be something else. Whatever it is, make time for it! Life’s too short not to.....