Work/life balance - is there such a thing? Is it possible to achieve? 

So many things can tip the scales either way on any given day and the work/life balance can look vastly different from one person to the next.  

This got me thinking, over the Christmas/New Year break (yes, I left work at work, downed the tools and the social media to let my thoughts just wander), with the sound of the waves, dogs barking and husbands fishing banter in the background, it was on our favourite beach spot where I thought about 'values'.

Everyone has different values for various reasons, the things that help formulate our points of view and how we see the world.  We are all brought up differently and what one may view as important, may rank very low to someone else.

According to the Cambridge Dictionary definition:

"Values are the beliefs people have, especially about what is right and wrong and what is most important in life, that control their behaviour."

Okay, so I didn't 'quite' leave work at work, because my mind then turned to the value systems that are so important to our team, yes, each person in our Sound Life team has a very similar moral compass. Each of us is drawn to a similar set of values, which on reflection, on that warm sunny, summer day at the beach, I realised this IS what makes Sound Life unique.

It's easy enough for a business to smash out some 'values' in a board room brainstorming session on a piece of butcher’s paper, to head up your business plan for the next twelve months, but, it's another thing to live by them. Our values form the basis for every business decision we make, and for every client, whether new or existing, we always come back to our core values, our reasons for showing up each day.

Our values give us clarity, guidance, direction, and purpose.  Here they are!

• Efficient

  We implement processes to ensure efficient workflow within our team and efficient service delivery to you. We ensure you feel empowered and informed on your planning journey.

• Empathetic

  We provide an inclusive environment where we treat all clients with respect, sensitivity and understanding. We listen with presence and genuine consideration.

• Flexible

  We are flexible and adapt to your changing circumstances. There is never a one-size-fits-all when we are working with you on your financial plan.

• Fun

  We have a welcoming, engaging, and supportive work environment while maintaining professionalism and encouraging a positive, a can-do attitude.

• Holistic

  We view you as the most important piece of the financial planning journey. We consider the big picture, guiding you to be disciplined rather than indulgent.

• Trustworthy

  We are proactive, open, and transparent. We work with you to achieve your best outcomes.

Our values are the essence of our business.  

“In a funny way, I liken them to six dear old Aunties who we don't often see, but we know are there, standing by and reminding us of why we do what we do.”

As for work/life balance? I'm still working on it.

Thelma Jaekel

Sound Life & Superannuation Agencies Pty Ltd trading as Sound Life Financial Services is the Authorised Representatives of Synchron, AFS Licence No. 243313.

The information contained in this article is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser.