She Strengthens

The Weight of Emotional Labor: Finding Balance in High-Stress Careers

Many women I know have careers that involve handling heavy and stressful subject matter, such as nursing, counseling, or working with children with extreme disabilities. The emotional toll of these jobs can be overwhelming, making it difficult to leave the stress behind at the end of the day. As someone who works from home, I often feel guilty for not having to deal with such intense emotional labor. However, I’ve come to realize that every job has its own unique set of stresses, and finding a balance between work and personal life is crucial for our well-being.

Prioritizing Self-Care

Whether it’s taking time to exercise, journal, or simply enjoy a hobby, making time for ourselves outside of work is essential. This can be challenging, especially for those who own their own businesses or have demanding careers. Nevertheless, it’s vital to carve out time to recharge and reboot our minds and bodies.

Real Women, Real Strategies

I spoke with several women who have high-stress jobs to learn how they maintain their work-life balance. Here’s what they shared:

Setting Boundaries

Leah emphasized the importance of cutting out negative influences and activities that drain energy. “Use your free time to lift yourself up, not bring yourself down,” she advises.

Time Management

Amanda had to make a difficult decision to cut back on her work hours, which resulted in a decrease in pay. However, she found that her overall well-being improved significantly.

Exercise as Therapy

Rachael swears by exercise as a way to recharge after a long day. “It gives me alone time with my thoughts and keeps me feeling fit and happy,” she explains.

Creating a Sanctuary

Nicole transforms her apartment into a peaceful oasis after work, complete with candles, music, and a home-cooked meal. “It’s what makes me happy and keeps me positive,” she says.

Emotional Distance

Jenna, a nurse, has learned to detach from her emotions while on the job. “It’s a way to protect myself and my life outside of the hospital walls,” she explains.

Productive Downtime

Katie, a freelance designer, collaborates with her partner on projects they love. “When I make the most out of my free time, I’m the happiest in work and play,” she says.

Confidence Boost

Jackie stopped apologizing unnecessarily at work, which has made her feel more confident and efficient.

Digital Detox

Jen sets a strict rule for herself: no checking emails after 7 pm. “It’s essential to create boundaries and prioritize personal time,” she emphasizes.

Unwinding with Friends

Lindsay values her friendships and makes time for them, often over a glass of good red wine. “Maintaining strong friendships is key to preserving my work-life balance,” she says.

Rewarding Yourself

Emma believes in taking vacations as a way to reward herself for her hard work. “It’s essential to invest in time traveling and creating memories that last longer than anything else,” she says.