Long working hours, irregular working schedules and demanding working environments are part of the experience of working on a superyacht. Regardless of this, it is possible to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Explore tips that can assist you in maintaining a healthy balance between your professional and personal life.
1. Know your values
To maintain a healthy work-life balance it is important to first know your values. What do you find important in your life? Think about your needs, interests, and passions. Consider how much time you spend on those now, and how you would like to change that in the future.
2. Keep work at work
Creating a distinction between your professional responsibilities and personal life aboard a superyacht might seem impossible, given you spend 24 hours a day with your crew sometimes spanning weeks or even months. However, having to spend time at your workplace, and surrounded by crew members does not mean that everything needs to stay work-focused. Once you finish your shift, try not to think about anything work-related anymore. Focus on yourself, your interests and priorities.
3. Prioritise yourself
When you have a day off, or free time, focus on yourself. Make sure your needs are met, you have enough rest and are staying healthy. Treat yourself to something that will make you fulfilled and happy.
4. Plan your time
Staying organised and planning your work time can reduce stress by helping you to keep up to date and in control of your work. This can also help you determine how much time off you get and allows you to plan the activities you want to do in your free time. Keeping a comprehensive overview of your planning can also help you look back and change things in the future ensuring you are always making the best out of your time.
5. Set time for relaxation
Make sure that you are taking enough breaks to relax and recharge, as working on a superyacht can be busy and demanding. Set time aside to rest, to listen to music or to read a book.
6. Engage in activities that make you happy
Make sure that you spend your free time doing something that makes you happy. Make sure to invest your leisure time in activities that bring you joy. Whether it’s delving into your interests or discovering new hobbies, prioritising happiness facilitates equilibrium between your professional and personal lifes.
7. Set boundaries
Setting boundaries will make it easier to achieve a balance between your life and your work. When working regular shifts, make sure it’s clear when your day is due to end. Planning your day and the activities you want to do in your free time ahead of schedule will help you stick to your boundaries.
8. Establish effective team communication
Effective team communication on a superyacht is crucial as each department on the yacht needs to run smoothly. Establishing this kind of communication will allow you to talk to your team members, ask for help, and offer help when someone is struggling. It also fosters improved team dynamics and transparency by facilitating clear exchanges of information, fostering trust among team members, enhancing collaboration, reducing misunderstandings, and promoting a shared understanding of goals and responsibilities.
9. Maintain your health
Take care of your physical and mental health by prioritising regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and ensuring a healthy diet. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and illegal drugs, as they can negatively impact your health and well-being. Moreover, ensuring regular, sufficient sleep and maintaining a nutritious diet are crucial.
10. Foster your relationships
Build strong relationships with your family, friends, and loved ones. Prioritise quality time to cope with stress more effectively. Whether it’s having dinner with your crewmates, calling your family back home, or spending time with friends during your time off, nurturing positive relationships is essential for maintaining your overall well-being and happiness.
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