Sometimes it can feel like work is taking over your life. It isn't only that you spend most of your week at your work place - it's that even when you're not there, you still think about it.

Perhaps you find yourself constantly checking emails, even when you don't need to, or still stressing over something you can't do anything about for the moment. It can be a real challenge to compartmentalise work life and free time, but it is absolutely necessary for your health and happiness. If you have difficulty switching off sometimes, here are some tips to help:

Turn off your laptop and smartphone: It can seem daunting to be totally disconnected from work, but all it takes is a few hours for the refreshing effect to show through. Why not decide to switch your electronics off a few hours before you go to bed, to give you some evening downtime? Unless your job specifically requires you to be on call 24/7, there's nothing that happens after 8pm that can't wait until the morning.

Use some physical energy: There's nothing like pumping adrenaline to quiet your brain. If you can, stopping off at the gym on the way home from work is a great way to end the workday. If you're not a fan of the gym, you could always look into other sports or activities. Finding a partner to play squash or tennis with is a fun way of getting your exercise, or joining in with your kids' favourite sport has the added bonus of giving you more time with them.

Concentrate on something else: It may be tempting to come home from a stressful day and flop. But actually, if you just sit there, or find yourself watching trash TV, you won't really be stepping out of work mode. Instead, try using a different part of your brain to change things up. Have a go at something artistic or musical, or do a crossword or some sudoku puzzles.

Eat something delicious and healthy: Being at work all day can make you forget how much you enjoy using your senses. Make something with fresh ingredients that you'll actually enjoy. Tasting real flavours will distract you from work thoughts, and a comfortably full stomach will make them seem less important anyway.

Get some fresh air: There's nothing like an evening walk outside to clear your head, particularly if you convince family or friends to come with you. Ban work from the topics of conversation and get a bit of perspective from the outside world.

Best Regards
Andrzej Wojtas (Ph.D.), Chief Editor of MFN, E-mail: andrzej@mfn.li

Author: Andrzej Wojtas