A balancing Act

In a manner of speaking, each and every one of us is on a tightrope--a precarious balancing act between work and the remainder of our lives.

It's a decidedly tough act, one that often mandates constant readjustment to avoid slips in our professional success and, every bit as important, our personal well-being.

I wrote a column about ways to achieve work-life balance. To read the whole smash, go to http://www.microsoft.com/smallbusiness/resources/management/leadership_training/need_work_life_balance_7_tips.mspx

Here's a Reader's Digest version:

* Don't overschedule. Strike a balance between productivity and overkill. Tinker with it until you find the right mix.

* Learn to say no. Not worth your time? Don't be afraid to take a flyer.

* Be ruthless with your time. Know those things that are important and immediate and those that can wait.

* Expect imperfection. The right balance may be hard to come by. Stay off your own back as you look for the optimal work/life equilibrium.

Jeff