How to Figure Out Who You Are Outside of Work

• Many people don’t have strict boundaries between work and home. In other words, our home is no longer the place we exclusively relax and leave work behind.
• Boundaries are critical when you’re just starting your career, too. You might be tempted to work long hours and be available to your clients all the time. However, it’s best to set boundaries right away.
• Other examples of boundaries include: not responding to work-related matters on weekends, and requesting another team member if you’re feeling overworked or overburdened.

• Reflect on the activities and hobbies that you loved as a child, teen, or young adult. Then carve out time to practice them.
• When someone’s work-life takes precedence, their personal relationships often start to suffer. This is why is recommended to refocus on your relationships with a partner, kids, friends, and family. Spend quality time with them. Have real conversations without interruption.

We have to intentionally create space for our true selves to emerge, which means holding time for ourselves to just be. This is also a helpful way to practice tolerating discomfort.

You might spend 20 minutes in the morning drinking your coffee or tea, without any digital devices, or spend Sunday afternoons by yourself. Notice what thoughts and feelings arise. Where does your mind go when there’s no task or structure?

Check out local meet-up groups, spiritual centers, or adult sports teams.

Think about other places around potential passions, such as book clubs, art clubs, and non-profit organizations. Experiment with new experiences.

Even if you end up not enjoying an experience, that’s still important information.