Do These 4 Things to Create Better Life-Work Balance

Even though the restrictions are now lifted and life is more or less back to normal, the pandemic made us reconsider the typical work model and many businesses start to recognise the benefits of working from home. Unfortunately, in some cases, remote work might make it difficult to separate your professional and personal life. For the sake of your mental well-being, you should be mindful of how much time you devote to work and learn strategies to maintain a healthy life-work balance. 

1. Analyse your current routine

Sometimes the problem isn’t being assigned too many duties but having poor time-management skills. Consider if you can make any adjustments to your routine to be more productive; for example, you might benefit from completing the easiest tasks first and then the more challenging ones to give you a sense of achievement and breaking them down into smaller goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Once you’ve figured out what routine works best for you, try to stick to it as much as possible. 

2. Reduce time spent online

One of the downsides of remote working is that it makes you feel like you have to be available all the time. As a result, you might check your emails and answer your phone long after you’ve clocked out, which might generate a feeling of anxiety and make it difficult to relax. To learn how to unplug, try to only use electronics for an hour or so after work; knowing you have a limit will make you less likely to scroll mindlessly or overstep your boundaries. You should also remember that using devices before bed might affect your sleep.

3. Prioritise self-care

Having a good life-work balance doesn’t necessarily mean that you devote equal time to your responsibilities and pleasure but that you complete your tasks and then have enough energy to invest in self-care. To learn how to prioritise self-care, make every break count. Try not to use your phone or check your email and do something relaxing instead such as reading a book or going for a walk. You can also take advantage of being at home by practising yoga or having a quick nap.   

4. Plan your week in advance

Knowing exactly what you have to do on a given week and having something to look forward to can be a great motivation. Be realistic about how much you can do in a day; outline your tasks and then decide how much time you want to devote to your personal life. 

Maintaining a life-work balance can be challenging, especially if you’ve been feeling stressed and overwhelmed. Unfortunately, the more you wait, the harder it gets to make changes in our routine. If you’re struggling, consider reaching out for help. At My Family Psychologist, we can offer a confidential chat and a range of effective treatments suited to your needs