As we are now in the heart of the holiday season, I find it only necessary to approach the topic of work–life balance. Pharmacists and student pharmacists alike may find it hard to find time away from their busy schedules to concentrate on the important things outside of work. With as much time as we have all invested into the pharmacy profession, even as a student and the investment of education, the last thing we want is to “burn-out” and eventually become tired of contributing to a profession that thrives so much on passion. 

I will admit, toward the beginning of my career as a pharmacist, I struggled with balancing my work with everything else going on in my life. I still may not have it all figured out, but I have definitely come a long way. As with every new beginning, it is important to start small. For example, we are all familiar with the infamous 30-minute lunch, and a lot of us probably stay in the pharmacy for that short window of time. Or maybe you are a student pharmacist studying for hours on end for an upcoming exam. Even if it is for a short amount of time, step back and take a break. Clear your mind and enjoy the moment. 

Robert Brooks, a professor of psychology at Harvard Medical School, stated in an article, “If you’re trying to change a certain script in your life, start small and experience some success.  Build from there.” I couldn’t agree more.  

While building time within your work day is important, building time after work to focus on what’s important is just as crucial. Technology has played a key role in making our lives easier, but it has also created an expectation of immediate and consistent accessibility outside of work.  “There are times when you should just shut your phone off and enjoy the moment,” Brooks advised. Texts and e-mails can create an undercurrent of stress and interrupt your time off.  Leave work at work and make quality time true quality time.

What are some strategies you use to create a work–life balance? Please share and leave a comment below.