Finding your work life balance

I thought it would be helpful to begin this article with a definition of what a work-life balance actually is and what it should or could look like. As I consider this question however, the more difficult it becomes as it is so subjective. The dictionary describes it as ‘a situation in which one divides or balances one’s time between work and activities outside of work.’ In his TED talk, Nigel Marsh highlights the importance of creating our own individual definition, “…take control and responsibility for the type of life we want to lead. If we don’t design our lives someone else will do it for you and you may not like their idea of balance.”  If your work and the demands and expectations of your employer are preventing you from investing time in the activities, experiences and connections that provide meaning and energy in your life, perhaps it’s time to at least question whether you have a work-life balance that works for you. Your work is part of your identity but it doesn’t (nor should it) define who you are.

Is work-life balance important?

We may have different aspirations and definitions of what a work-like balance is for us as individuals. But research since the pandemic demonstrates the very significant shift in employee attitudes towards the part work plays in their lives, to the extent that work-life balance is now one of the most important factors we value in the workplace. It is notable in recent years in our careers appointments and at university employer events, how often undergraduates ask questions about recruiters work-life balance policies – and how often they cite this as one of their key criteria when choosing careers and deciding who they would like to work for.

What is the impact of a poor work-life balance?

There has been extensive research into the adverse effects a poor work-life balance can have on physical and mental health, including for example poor quality sleep, increased levels of anxiety, stress and depression. And poorer health in later life. Conversely, research also demonstrates the benefits of a healthy work-life balance with higher levels of employee happiness, job satisfaction and ultimately, productivity – creating a positive workplace culture clearly has benefits for organisations as well. The pandemic has led to the development of more flexible working arrangements for many employees which, for many staff,  has meant increased autonomy which has given them a sense of more control of how and where they choose to work – leading to happier and more productive employees.      

How do you know if you have a poor work-life balance?

We may have a tendency to just accept that work inevitably places demands on us and our time and that everybody has the same experience in their workplace. Or ironically, that we just never have enough time to question to what extent our work is impacting our lives outside of work. But try to take a step back and reflect. If you are feeling unhappy, under pressure and stressed, ask yourself what may be causing this. Just thinking about this may help you to identify the issue and whether your work style is helpful, or if it is the cause of how you are feeling. If your pattern of work is creating resentment about what you feel you are missing out on (relationships, hobbies, interests…) due to work commitments, what needs to change?  Recognising the problem and committing to change are important first steps to enable us to create a healthier work-life balance.

How to improve your work-life balance: dos & don’ts  

• Reflect: take time to think about if work and the way you manage your time is affecting the way you feel and behave. Are you feeling unhappy,frustrated and resentful about how work is occupying so much of your time and thoughts?
• Take ownership: if you feel there is an issue, commit to tackling it. Hoping  your employer or a colleague will raise this issue could be a long wait, they may not even know there is a problem. Tell your employer how you feel, there may be measures they can take to create a more flexible work enviroment – they may be more understanding and sympathetic than you believe.
• If you are a student considering your career options, think about how important this issue is for you. Develop a work-life balance that works for you and one that will be a template for your career. Research the work life-balance policies and procedures of companies you are interested in applying to – ask recruiters how they would describe their work culture in your interview.
• Don’t add your works email account to your mobile – even if you are not responding to an email in the evening or at the weekend you are thinking about work. And distracting from an interest and relationship that gives you meaning outside work.
• Take your lunch! You will be more refreshed and productive if you have taken time away from your desk. Will waiting an hour to send that email really make a difference?  
• Be realistic about the expectations of your employer – they will want you to be happy in your work as you will be a more motivated and effective member of their organisation. And you are far more likely to be happy and experience job satisfaction if you have a good work-life balance.