To combat this problem (and it is a problem…what’s life without the people you love and stuff you love to do?) I’ve started instating some self-imposed boundaries  on my work habits, and I’ve actually begun scheduling out some time just for relaxing and hanging out (no computers allowed, unless video games are involved!!). I’ve had a lot of success in some areas…my weekly “date night” with my wife is a great example. We’ve both freed our schedules completely for Saturday evenings, and–barring some emergency or urgent engagement–the only thing we’re allowed to do during that time is hang out…watch movies, go out to eat, whatever. It’s a great way to catch up on the past week and relax in preparation for my busiest workday (Sunday).

I’ve also thought about scheduling in smaller blocks of time throughout each day as well, but this is a bit more difficult for me. There’s lots of anecdotal evidence on the web regarding increased productivity when people take regular breaks, etc. I think it will take substantial discipline to develop this habit for me; when I’m deep in “work-mode” I can easily go 4+ hours without a break. When I do take a short respite, it’s hard for me to tear myself away from something fun after only 15 minutes or so.  So, it’s a struggle to find the best “rhythm” for me. Should I take a fifteen minute break every two hours, thirty minutes every four? I don’t know…maybe trial-and-error is the best way to go here.

One thing is for sure though…as much as I love my job, my studies, and getting things done around the house, I get miserable real fast if those are the only things I’m doing. I think that although I may not get as much done in the beginning, making a conscious effort to put leisure activities at a higher priority on my lists will help bring a bit more balance to my life.

Do you schedule your leisure time? How do you find the right balance between work and break periods during the day? Do you find that regular “fun time” gives you a creative/productive boost? Let’s take it to the forums.