Intentional inflexibility is a game changer when it comes to improving your work-life balance. It’s about knowing what matters most to you and making a commitment to protect it, ultimately reclaiming control over your life. By setting boundaries, you create a foundation for balance and fulfillment. Watch as your life transforms from a chaotic whirlwind into a harmonious symphony. Your future self will thank you.
Create consistent routines. Establish and stick to consistent daily or weekly routines. Predictable routines create stability and reduce the need for constant adjustments. (If you’re a parent, you understand all too well that feeling of ahh! that comes with a routine bedtime for your children.)
Establish boundaries. Create clear boundaries around these nonnegotiables. Determine what actions are necessary to honor these commitments daily or weekly. Make a commitment to yourself that you’ll protect these nonnegotiables, no matter what.
When we’re flexible with everything, we become overwhelmed and control nothing. Our time is pulled in a hundred different directions, and we end up feeling stressed, burned out, and dissatisfied.
We protect our time. We protect our energy. And most importantly, we protect the things that matter most to us.
At its core, intentional inflexibility involves deliberately setting firm boundaries around crucial aspects of your life that you deem most important. You stick with those boundaries in the face of distractions, diversions, or demands that threaten to encroach upon them.
Practice mindful unavailability. Be intentionally unavailable during your designated personal or leisure time. Yes, it is OK to have some “me time” and make yourself a priority. This reinforces the importance of self-care and a well-rounded life.
Learn to say no. Be intentional about your commitments and learn to say no when necessary. Prioritizing what truly matters helps you avoid unnecessary stress and overload.
Why it works
Here are some ways you can incorporate intentional inflexibility in your life.
At work
Plan breaks. Yes, you do need a break! Schedule breaks at fixed times during your workday. This intentional structure ensures regular moments of relaxation without letting work consume your entire day.
Prioritize tasks. Focus on essential activities to prevent overcommitting and reduce stress.
At home
But when we’re intentionally inflexible? That’s when the magic happens.
Limit communication time. Set specific times for checking emails and messages. Avoid the temptation of checking “just one more.” By doing this, you can control the intrusion of work into your personal time.
Published March 4, 2024, by Jones Loflin.