Work Hard, Play Hard

I recently made the decision to work from home full time. I love that I have the flexibility career-wise to do so, but not going into an office and having little boundaries now between my personal and professional life can be stressful. I’m someone with a work hard/play hard mentality but I’m also terrified of burn out. How can I possibly find some kind of balance?

— Anonymous

What We're Sippin': Iced Caramel Macchiato with an extra shot.

• It seems like you're someone who likes to be on the go, so thankfully Starbucks has got you covered on this one. The 2-3 shots of espresso will keep you going while the sweet caramel drizzle will remind you that all work and no play makes Jack a dull boi.

Where We're Sippin': Honestly we're sipping this by the pool on one of our do-nothing days. You have, however, inspired us to make robust to-do lists... for Monday of course...

Mother Teresa

If you can see the difference between working hard and playing hard, you’re already there. You already appreciate the two components of your life as distinct. In terms of avoiding burn out, keep to a schedule. Don’t be afraid to physically block off time for yourself, apart from your work. Write down all you want to accomplish that day or week and give yourself hard starts and stops.

Ginger Ále

Agree, but I also think that it’s important to diversify your activities. Playing hard could mean going hard in workout, dedicating an evening to cooking or cleaning, and schedule social activities for the heck of it, like a happy hour on a Tuesday or weekend full of your favorite indie films. All of these allow you to break from work. I’m all for the work hard/play hard mentality (with one day of doing absolutely nothing every 15 or so days) so long as it remains fruitful to you.