Top 10 Work+Life "Fit" Tips for Individuals
by Michael P. Haubrich, CFP

In developing the Career Asset Management Model, we consulted with work/life industry expert Cali Williams Yost, author of critically acclaimed book, Work+Life: Finding the "Fit" that's Right for You (Riverhead/Penquin Group, 2005). What follows is Cali's Top Ten Work+Fit Tips for Individuals. She also has a Top Ten list for managers that can be found at http://www.worklifefit.com/pdf/wif-top10-org.pdf.

1. It's fit, not balance. There are countless work+life fit possibilities from which to choose between the extremes of "all or nothing."
   
   
2. Small changes in your "fit" can make a big difference. Most of the time you won't want to work less, just differently.
   
   
3. Your manager and/or HR Department can't give you the answer. You are the only one who knows your realities well enough to create a fit that will succeed.
   
   
4. Ask! What's the worst thing that can happen? A "no" answer. Most likely the answer will be "yes" to a well thought-out plan for at least a trial period, which is why you must ask, especially if you are ready to leave.
   
   
5. Anyone, anytime can adjust their "fit" for any reason. It isn't only a working mother issue, it's an everyone issue in today's 24/7 world where companies can no longer set the boundaries around work and life.
   
   
6. Start with what you do want, not with what you don't want. Most people only know they don't want the fit they currently have. You must start by asking, "How do I want work to fit into my life?"
   
   
7. Redefine success to match your fit. Make sure that your personal definition of success is working for you and not against you.
   
   
8. It hurts your career more not to adjust your fit. Burning out, becoming unproductive, ignoring a personal problem, getting sick or leaving never helps your career.
   
   
9. Fight your manager's "floodgates fear" right away. Assume you will hear, "If I give it to you, everyone will want it," and prepare your response in advance.
   
   
10. Make it work for you and your employer. Compare what you want with your work and personal realities to make sure they are compatible. Make adjustments where necessary. The result is a "fit" most likely to succeed personally and professionally!
    
    

For the most up to date commentary on work life issues, check out Cali's Work+Life Fit blog on Tuesdays. It's a great resource for both individuals and organizations. The blog, believed to be the first dedicated solely to work life issues, is at www.worklifefit.com.