Do you have a healthy work-life balance?
Running your own business is challenging. A lot of people, especially self-employed or freelancers, consider their downtime to be money lost, but just because you’re working does not mean you are working towards your goals effectively.
A recent report by Mental Health UK found that one in five (21%) admit that their productivity or performance was impacted by high levels of pressure or stress but that they didn’t adjust their hours or take time off work. This can lead to further mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. The study also found that the same percentage (21%) needed to take time off work due to poor mental health caused by pressure or stress.
Alongside long working hours, it is common to feel overwhelmed by the need to “juggle” different aspects of life; including children, relationships, or demands from other responsibilities.
It is important to not beat yourself up about this. At some life stages, the balance must be tipped, but this mustn't be long-term as it can lead to overall burnout. Not only will this affect your personal life, but you may also see this impact on your working day through difficulty concentrating, elevated stress levels and low mood. Sometimes, this can lead to losing passion for your work and everything you have worked hard for.
1. Quality over quantity
As tempting as it may feel to put in long hours, this can hurt productivity in the long term. If possible, try to use a task management technique such as goal setting or creating ”to-do” lists to keep productivity high.
2. Putting on the breaks to keep you moving
Regular breaks throughout your day is important to allow you to feel refreshed and focused. Try scheduling these hourly to ensure you stay hydrated, and eat regularly and to look after your posture. A quick walk around can help reduce the chance of headaches through eye strain and postural issues through slouched posture and can increase your productivity.
3. Draw the line
Having a distinctive end to your working day is important, whether in the office or at home. Working hours over your finish time or a bit longer when you get home can occur without a specific cut-off. To ensure a definitive end to your working day, try shutting down your laptop at a set time, physically changing rooms or going for a walk (if working from home).
If you recognise that your work-life balance is not right for your wellbeing, the first step is to keep track of your working hours. This will help you monitor the accumulation, allowing you to make changes for greater balance.
Also, try and find what works for you in your personal life. Whether this is a hobby, spending time with your family, or just having time for yourself. If you prioritise and schedule this within your week, as you would for work meetings or project deadlines, you are more likely to achieve it and less likely to fill your free time with work. Your wellbeing can be the key to flourishing work life, so make sure your balance has you in mind.
Ensure tomorrow has the right balance for you.
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Please contact us at 0161 3593050 or query below.
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