Perth: Balancing work and personal life can be tough, but emotional intelligence (EI) is key to finding harmony. EI includes self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. By understanding and managing your emotions, you can handle stress better and make decisions that align with your values, ensuring a healthy balance between work and personal activities.

Curtin University Associate Professor Sakeshi Miguel outlines key strategies for achieving work-life balance:

• Set Boundaries: Keep work and personal time separate to protect your well-being. EI helps you recognize when work intrudes on personal time, allowing you to assertively communicate your needs.

• Time Management: Prioritize tasks based on their importance, not emotions. This reduces stress and creates space for personal activities.

• Self-Care Rituals: Regular self-care, like exercise or meditation, is essential. EI helps you identify what you need to function at your best, enhancing resilience and effectiveness in all areas of life.

• Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out for help. EI involves recognizing when you need support, whether from friends, family, or professionals, to gain new perspectives and strategies.

• Reflect Often: Regular self-reflection is vital for maintaining balance. EI allows for honest self-assessment, helping you adjust your approach to stay aligned with your goals.

• Social Connections: Strong relationships with family, friends, and others can significantly improve happiness, reduce health problems, and extend your life. Conversely, loneliness and social isolation are linked to poorer health, depression, and an increased risk of early death. According to the CDC, people with strong social bonds have a 50% higher survival rate.

Finally, remember that navigating life’s challenges is easier with emotional intelligence. Recognize your emotions, embrace change, and seek support when needed. By doing so, you’ll be better equipped to handle struggles and maintain a balanced life.

Help is available 24/7 across Australia. If you need support, call Lifeline at 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800.