Blackberry orphans

Interesting article I read in the Canadian HR Reporter this morning. It's about Blackberry owners not allowing for a more definite line between work and personal relationships. Read the entire article here.

But do you need to own a Blackberry to be doing the same thing? Do those around you feel like "ministry orphans"? Do they feel like they are getting your leftovers by the time you come home from the office?

Making the break between work and home life (work life balance) is difficult for some to do. But it IS possible. It may take some time. It may require changing some habits and setting some boundaries. But given that your closest relationships are vital to your overall health, isn't it worth it?

Here are a few tips to help make the break between ministry work and family:

• Turn off your cell phone and leave it in the car when you go in for dinner.
• If you must work at home, sit down with your family and talk out a sensible block of time for you to do work.
• Develop a "leaving the office" routine. Consider a ritual of cleaning off your desk, turning off your computer, getting on your knees, and saying a prayer of closure. And when you get up from your knees, let that symbolize leaving the work and approaching home.

A healthy balance between your ministry and your relationships is part of Serving Strong!