How to maintain a work-life balance when back at the office
For many of us, our desire to succeed professionally often results in long hours and putting work before all else, including our personal interests. While this is acceptable in certain situations, such as meeting an important deadline, it is all too easy for this type of behaviour to take over and become a new normal.
Managing a healthy work-life balance tends to be easier when working from home, however with a majority of the workforce going back to physical offices, a new balance is needed. To help avoid a mental burnout, we have highlighted the top ways to maintain a work-life balance when back at the office.
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Throw out perfection
It is vital to understand that there is no correct ratio of work to life, creating the perfect balance. Even if there was one, the chances of applying it in real life are slim to none. The percentage of time that you dedicate to both work and home will constantly change based on your needs that day. Learning to roll with the punches is the best thing you can do.
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Learn to prioritise
When you are at work - particularly in a high-pressure position - you may default to treating everything as a priority, even when it isn’t. A valuable lesson is to understand that the world will not stop turning if you stop. It’s okay to prioritise a personal need, and it’s also okay to put work first when you have to.
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Health is key
The body is a mysterious thing, and if you pay attention, your body will tell you what you need to know. Constant headaches? You may be dehydrated or too stressed to think clearly. Are your neck and back tensing up? It’s your body’s way of telling you to move and stretch every once in a while. There is no balance if you constantly push yourself to physical or mental burnout.
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Make time for fun
When facing office deadlines, family responsibilities and more, having fun can quickly become a distant memory. A healthy work-life balance means prioritising life too and making an effort to do something fun. Fun can mean visiting a friend, going for a walk, decluttering your home, having a movie day, or just going for a scenic drive. Whatever you do, the goal is to enjoy yourself.
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Unplug when you need to
Your smartphone, tablet or laptop can be a menace. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a moment to unplug and spend time focusing on real life. Say no to social media, checking your emails, and even Netflix. Give yourself time to simply be and enjoy something that doesn’t involve a screen.
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