We often spend a lot of time pursuing a healthy work-life balance, however, sometimes it can seem like an impossible goal. Being always on the job does not help you achieve tasks quicker, it can actually slow down productivity. Finding a healthy balance between work and your personal life is essential for good mental wellbeing.
Step away from your emailsSeparating your work life and personal life can be difficult with the advancement of technology, as we are now forever chained to our desks and forever reachable with mobile phones. However, it is important for our wellbeing to clock out of work and switch off in the evenings. Incessant checking of emails and work-related tasks can decrease productivity, and lead to burning out.
Leave work at the doorWhen you leave the office in the evening commit to leaving your stress behind. Sometimes it can be hard going from work mode to home life mode, and it can be difficult to separate the two. Implement a strict no work policy in the evenings and on weekends without any exceptions. It is important to unplug from work as it allows us to recover from weekly stresses, and gives your body and mind a chance to rest.
Make time for youWhen we are busy at work, it can be easy to think ‘I’ll just answer one more email and then go home’ or ‘I’ll just finish this task first’, but it’s vital to make an effort to leave on time and prioritise time for yourself. Whilst your job is a big part of your life, it shouldn’t be your entire life. Make time for you, and the hobbies you enjoy, it will do wonders for your wellbeing and can help you relax after a stressful day.
Set manageable workload goalsWriting yourself a list of tasks a mile long won’t be achievable in a day, so try to set manageable goals for each working day. It’s important to be realistic about workloads and deadlines, as not only will you burnout trying to do everything at once but it can make you feel down. A reasonable to do list can help you feel in control and give you a sense of accomplishment once you get a task done.
Keep physically activeIt can be easy to neglect your exercise routine, and instead opt for staying late at work to finish a project. However, regular exercise is good for your physical and mental health. Even when we are busy, we still need to make time for crucial things in life. Physical activity can help reduce stress, depression and anxiety, as it helps get endorphins pumping through your body and helps lift your mood.
Communicate effectivelyIf you are feeling snowed under with work, why not ask to have a chat with your line manager? Don’t bottle it all up until you reach a breaking point with your workload. Have an open discussion with your line manager and offer practical solutions for where you are struggling. Don’t shut yourself off from everyone, if you don’t want to speak to your line manager, how about a colleague, they may understand what you are going through and could help.
