Leave Work Where it Belongs 'at the Office'! How to Unwind

By Suzie Doscher, Professional Executive and Life Coach Zurich

How about going out for a sail, swim, drink, run, meet friends, play with your children, talk to your partner - without your head still being full of work related information?

First of all it helps to remember and accept as an important truth is: Your work is only part of your life. 

It is wonderful if you love what you do and have passion for your work, but do not forget that your personal life is at least as important as your work. ... Click 'Read More' below

The goal is not to neglect your work but equally not your family, friends and self. Establish and maintain a routine of self-care - which is what unwinding from work on your way home is and start experiencing life as more satisfying, rewarding, happy, and healthier in mind and body.

Periods of down time are necessary in order to avoid burning out. The less stress all round, the better your performance will be. This is more than true of work.

Some helpful suggestions to consider for de-stressing and leaving work at the office:

• Accept that only on a rare occasion will you be able to go home leaving a clear desk behind. There is always more to do!
• Raise your awareness to how many “I should’s” you have running!
• Attempt to let go of at least one “I should still be doing this or doing that...” thoughts. They guarantee that you will be taking the stress with you. If you are used 'should be' thoughts they might be a bad habit at this point. Know that letting go of old habits requires time and patience. 'Should be' thoughts could also be based on a a limiting belief (a thought pattern that limits you, holds you back and can keep you running in circles. Best explored with a professional coach if you are finding it difficult to shift)
• To start, focus on making one small change - one 'baby step' at a time will lead to sustainable transformation.
• For motivation: Ask yourself how de-stressing and leaving work at the office will benefit you. Write down what you will gain. Writing it down makes the desire to change more real.
• Take some time to consider what the best, most practical and realistic steps are for you to take, for example: What would you have to do to treat your commute home as a time to unwind? (Stop off for a coffee, take a stroll in the park or around the block, sit and watch the stressed people on their way home and be thankful that you are not going to be one of them anymore…)
• Be realistic with your thoughts and plans for this change. Find whatever best matches your personality, fits into your lifestyle, suits you the best, and would give you the best rewards. For some it might be a visualization of 'putting work into a box and leaving it in a drawer at the office'.
• Allow yourself as much time as you need to find what routine works best for you. You, your family and friends will be grateful.
  
  

If you have had a particularly bad day, make sure you allow a little extra time for unwinding and de-stressing.
Remind yourself that work will still be there in the morning. With a fresh approach, a de-stressed self, a good night’s sleep, a good dinner, a laugh etc. you will be able to tackle all issues with better energy and a better attitude.

Leaving work behind, mentally and physically, is up to you.

In summary: If you want to do this, have found the right motivation then consider your choices and follow through. It will take time and practice until this new behaviour is in place. The rewards will be worth the effort. Your boss will appreciate the stronger you and so will your friends and family. Needless to say you get the most out of this as you are treating yourself with the care and respect you deserve.
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Saying 'no' to something makes room for a 'yes' to something else. In this case, 'no' to stress and work at the end of the day - means a 'yes' to yourself and the personal part of your life.
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If one approach you decided to try out does not seem to be working too well, try another one!

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