Finding balance

I have been a Middle School principal for 3 years now and I still struggle with finding balance between work and my personal life.  I love my job, but it can't be the only thing that defines me.  I love to work hard and play hard, because being a principal is not the only thing that defines me.  With the demands the world places on educators, finding balance is a challenge.

I have tired many things to help me create a balance between work and personal life.  I am a planner, so I write workout times, lunch dates, etc into my calendar.  Sometimes, this doesn't work for me.  I want to do my best and I struggle with leaving my desk with work still to be done.  I also struggle with taking me time.  There are times we need a break, whether it is a mental health day or you are truly sick. I am one of those people who drag themselves to work even when they are dying.  I need to remember that the school will run without me there.

Some tips that have worked for me (but if you have some, please share):    I started bring my exercise clothes to work to change before I leave, hoping I get to the gym.  I schedule my "Mental health" afternoons in advance so that I know the school is covered.  I try not to say no when colleagues ask me to go out for drinks, we need this connection with others.  I don't take work home, it will be there the next day. Plus, at home is where I do most of my PLN work for me.  My home time is about me and my loved ones.  The weekends (mostly) are my time.  I don't check email (except for Sunday nights so I am not surprised on a Monday) and I do my thing with my family and friends.

I wish someone had a magic spell to help me with this answer.  How do other principals handle this?  My County office of ed is starting a Middle School Principal breakfast 4 times a year.  I hope that one of the topics we discuss others do this.  I know there is a way.

The Pearl of wisdom for the post, laugh every day at work.  Nope, no tech tip this time.  Just enjoy life and smile.