In a recent survey, we asked real estate appraisers to tell us their top professional goal for 2022. By far, the top answer was: “Achieve a better work-life balance.” Indeed, as we move toward a post-pandemic world, this goal seems to be top of mind for many people across all professions. The benefits of work-life balance include lower stress levels, improved health outcomes, increased productivity, and greater job satisfaction.
Here are several tips to help you work toward a better work-life balance.
Streamline your workflow
If you are looking to spend more time working on passion projects or being with family next year, you may want to focus on streamlining your workflow to free up time. One way you can optimize your workflow is by taking advantage of time-saving technology. For example, consider using a mobile app for your appraisal inspections (e.g., CoreLogic’s TOTAL for Mobile, which is popular among appraisers).
Further reading: 6 Ways to Streamline Your Appraisal Workflow
Set blocks of time for different types of tasks
Have a specific time of day when you check (and respond to) emails and phone messages, a time when you’re out in the field inspecting properties or taking comp photos, and a time when you’re doing mentally-intensive work (e.g., market analysis, completing appraisal reports). Try to arrange these tasks around the times that you are personally more productive.
Have designated work hours
If you’re self-employed or own your own appraisal business, it’s easy to let work spill over into personal time. Set limits for yourself and establish a routine of stopping work at a designated time each day. Reinforce it by shutting off work-related devices, locking up your office, or establishing a healthy end-of-the-workday habit that you enjoy (e.g., cooking dinner for your family, walking the dog, meeting up with friends).
Take five
A five-minute break is a simple but powerful way to reduce work stress. Small breaks not only help clear your head, but also improve your ability to deal with stress and make good decisions when you return to your work.
Free download: How to Get the Most Out of Your Professional Development
Take a walk
In addition to its well-known physical benefits, regular exercise reduces stress, depression, and anxiety. It also boosts your immune system and helps keep you from getting sick. Make time in your schedule for taking a walk during your lunch hour, going to the gym, or doing any activity that gets you moving and having fun.
Engage in hobbies outside of work
Hobbies are key to improving work-life balance So be sure to f
Utilize mindfulness techniques
Try practicing mindfulness techniques through activities like meditation, yoga, or breath awareness. These techniques help you become more in-tune with your personal needs—mental, emotional, and physical. Therefore you’ll be more likely to attend to those needs versus getting sucked into work to the point where you feel it’s taking over your life.
Ultimately, you’ll need to determine what “healthy work-life balance” means for you. We hope these tips will serve as a good jumping-off point as you work toward achieving that goal.
