The simple answer yes. To some extent, being a locum could be compared to medical freelancing. But a doctor is a doctor. Along with the flexibility enjoyed as a locum comes the responsibility of managing everything yourself. 

Juggling personal and professional life can become difficult, especially when you don’t have a fixed schedule. Just like a self-employed businessman, you have to establish a work-life balance. This is necessary to ensure you keep up with all your commitments while maintaining long-term physical and mental health.  

Here’s how you can achieve the elixir of a balanced life as a locum GP-

Focus on wellness

Being a medical professional, you know the importance of eating well and exercising. You need to follow the advice you give to your patients. 

Your lifestyle should consist of consuming nutrient-rich meals, exercising at least 3 times a week and getting at least 7 hours of sleep.

Following these obvious but nonetheless significant practices is crucial for good health. It will improve your mood, boost your energy levels and allow you to easily undertake long work hours. 

It’s prudent to make and stick to a daily schedule. From hours dedicated to fitness to meal prepping, you have to religiously prioritise wellness.

Mind also needs care

Just looking after your physical well-being is not enough. Your mind is just as important as your body. Always take out time to ground your mind and focus on your senses. Mindfulness improves concentration at work and helps with relaxation at home. 

Apart from this, indulge in activities that make you feel rejuvenated. Whether it’s cooking or playing football, take out time for yourself. Switch off the work mode and take relaxation just as seriously as you take work. A focused, relaxed mind will enhance your efficiency and boost morale.

Plan better

Failure to effectively plan your everyday schedule can quickly turn life chaotic. Planning smartly is the only way to keep everything under control. You can get a detailed planner to know how much time you’re spending working, and how much you are saving for your personal life. 

Planning work life as a locum GP is a whole another ordeal. Good thing, we have technology and software to make life easier. With the help of My Locum Manager you can synchronize and streamline everything from booking jobs to expense management. It’s more than an organizer that will simplify your invoicing and so much more.

Take breaks

Even during your workdays, try to take 10-15 minutes break whenever you can. You can take a short walk, listen to music or catch up with coworkers. These breaks will help you work better on long days. 

Don’t shy from delegation

Don’t bite off more than what you can chew. There is no point in undertaking more tasks than what you can efficiently deliver. Whenever possible, seek help from administrative staff, medical assistants and nurses for paperwork and follow-ups. 

You can refuse any additional jobs that don’t fit your schedule. It’s better than driving yourself to mental and physical exhaustion. 

Automate mundane chores

Remove mundane chores from your everyday life. You don’t have to sit for two hours every week sorting your food shop. Schedule and automate your weekly grocery shopping. There will be one less chore for you to worry about.

Household help

If your budget allows it, there is no harm in hiring home cleaners. Wouldn’t you prefer to sleep for 7 hours after a 48-hour shift instead of vacuuming the carpet? Time saved is much more valuable than money spent.

The responsibility of achieving work-life balance falls on your shoulder. It’s not possible unless you take active steps to restore it.