Finding the right balance between work and home life can seem impossible for many of us, though especially difficult for physicians. Working long hours with dedication for offering patients the best care, sometimes doesn’t leave much time outside of work.
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance promotes stress reduction, as well as reducing stress related factors such as hypertension, heart problems and mental health issues.
Burnout is another work-related problem that many medical professionals face. Working long hours can cause a higher risk of job exhaustion. Burnout can lead to fatigue, mood swings, irritability, and decreased work performance. High quality work is especially critical for those working in the medical field.
Job burnout affects not only physical and mental health, but can also affect the profitability of medical practitioners. The Harvard Business Review reports that medical problems related to burn-out in employees cost an estimated $125 billion to $190 billion a year in healthcare spending in the United States. 92% of physicians ages 35 or younger believe that work-life balance is an important aspect of their lives.
How can medical professionals work to create a healthy work-life standard? Interacting regularly with friends and family, maintaining a nutritious diet and sustaining a healthy sleep schedule can help balance out strenuous work schedules. This optimizes the enjoyment of both occupational and personal endeavors, and helps to avoid the negative health consequences of stress and burnout.
To ensure a healthy work-life balance, consider the idea of counterbalancing. Avoid the frustrations of an overwhelming work environment by engaging in an equalized work-life schedule, igniting the path towards a balanced lifestyle.
Creating harmony between occupational and personal lifestyles will allow you to have a healthier and happier life overall.
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