Balancing Work and Life as a Millennial: A Guide to Wellbeing

As a millennial, (Vintage 1990) balancing work and life can often feel like an impossible task.

Sigh....

With the constant pressure to excel in our careers while maintaining a fulfilling personal life, it's easy to become overwhelmed and burnt out. Social media is a forever rotating NYC style rotating door. The fast-paced nature of modern living is ruining our lives and leaves little room for relaxation and self-care, leading many millennials, such as myself to seek solutions for a healthier work-life balance.

My identity has been my career for the last 15+ years of my life. Hi, I'm Brenna, I do hair. Hey, I like to keep it simple. I stressed out entirely over nothing with trying to come up with an "elevator pitch" one time. I quit my steady, predictable, decent paying salon stylist position on February 17th, 20220. Spent over 8 years at that salon and had grown a large loyal clientele. I was miserable and exhausted. Mentally SPENT. Do you understand the challenges of absorbing 5+ people energies every day when you have absolutely zero knowledge of energetic boundaries. I was craving a change of scenery and mindset. The timing on this "wow I need a change" could not have been more bewildering. On March 17th, 2020 the world shut down. Pandemic hit the beauty industry hard from March-May when we were not allowed to work in Connecticut. The little hair studio I had just started working at a week prior was ALLOWING ME TO SLOW DOWN and save time. It was a short 15 minute commute vs. the 50 minute drive prior. The amount of time you get back with either removing a commute, hybrid work or relocating is immense and honestly life changing.

That week was already one of the best I'd had in quite some time

Because I had gained back a unrenewable resource

I got back time.

Fast forward 4 years now and yes I am still doing hair, now as an Independent Artist. I am the master of my own time now (picture me doing cartwheels in excitement) I travel to clients homes all over Litchfield & Fairfield County and wedding venues throughout New England.

One of the biggest challenges millennials / especially mamas are facing is the inability to prioritize self-care amidst their busy schedules. Long work hours, the constant connectivity, and societal expectations contribute to high levels of stress and anxiety. The struggle to find time for relaxation and wellness, hobbies, and personal interests (for the longest time I thought hair was my hobby and my passion...) can lead to burnout, affecting both the physical and mental bodies. The lack of a balanced lifestyle not only hinders productivity at work but also diminishes the quality of your relationships with your partner, family and friends.

Achieving a harmonious well(thy) work-life balance requires intentional efforts to simplify lifestyle changes and cultivate financial wellness.

Here are some practical solutions that I have found work well for me:

1. Prioritize Self-Care
   

• Self-care is essential for maintaining mental and emotional wellness. Dedicate specific times each day for activities that revitalize you, such as reading one of your all time favorite Harry Potter books, meditation, or starting a few tomato plants on the back deck. Create a your own DAILY self-care routine that includes exercise, 8-10 hours of sleep (its life changing as a woman), and healthy eating. Remember, self-care is not selfish; it's necessary for overall wellbeing.

1. Embrace a Slow Lifestyle
   

• I recently traveled to the East for the first time. Furthest we've been is Central America. Spent time on a island in the Indian Ocean off of Bali, Indonesia. Hear this now, that is how you learn to simplify your life. Catch the travel bug. Learn the world. Step outside your comfort zone. Many countries around the world embrace the concept of a slow lifestyle, which emphasizes living in the moment and reducing the pace of daily activities. For example, in countries like Denmark and Japan, people prioritize quality over quantity in both work and leisure. In Bali, they call it "island time," you take as little or as long as you'd like to do something. Work or leisure. Implementing elements of a slow lifestyle, such as taking regular breaks, disconnecting from technology, and practicing mindfulness, can significantly reduce stress and increase life satisfaction.

1. Practice Yoga and Mindfulness

• Yoga and mindfulness practices are phenomenal ways to cultivate a sense of balance and peace. Yoga is meant to strengthen and calm the mind, strengthening the body is a exceptional added bonus. Yoga will be an ideal activity for those with hectic schedules/ hectic minds. Mindfulness, the practice of being present, embracing each and every moment will reduce anxiety and improve focus. Incorporate short mindfulness sessions into your daily routine, such as mindful breathing exercises, I love the box breathing technique. Maybe add a brief meditation during your afternoon walk with your pup!
  

Let's live a well balanced life; which focuses on creating cozy, enjoyable moments in your everyday. This can be as simple as lighting candles, enjoying a warm cup of tea, or spending time with loved ones. Similarly, the Japanese practice of "Ikigai" (reason for being) encourages finding joy in daily activities and living with purpose. Adopting these cultural philosophies can guide you toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Rooted in ancient Hindu principles, Sattvic living promotes a lifestyle that harmonizes body, mind, and spirit. With a Sattvic mind, choose to have thoughts and actions that promote fullfillment and joy. Cultivate Sattva in your life and you will be able to reconnect with the limitless power of your "Atma," or Self.

Are you ready to take the first step towards a balanced work-life routine? Download our free digital guide, "Mindful Reflections: The Well(thy) Life Journal." This journal is designed to help you reflect on your daily habits, set meaningful goals, and incorporate mindfulness into your routine. Start your journey to a healthier, more balanced life today.

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xoxox

Namaste besties

see you on the next one

Click here to get your free copy of Mindful Reflections: The Well(thy) Life Journal now!

By prioritizing self-care, embracing elements of a slow lifestyle, and practicing yoga and mindfulness, you can achieve a harmonious balance between work and personal life. Take control of your wellbeing and create a life that nurtures both your career and your soul.