How to Get Work-life Balance

Work-life balance is essentially about handling real life. It’s the ability to effectively manage the work, family and personal components of life without suffering extreme stress or any one are being negatively impacted.

Some companies offer programs and services which are designed to nurture the wellbeing of their employees and enable them to achieve a balance between their jobs, families and personal lives. However, many companies do not offer such programs and it’s up to the individual to achieve this balance for themselves.
Employee benefits of achieving work-life balance:

• Improves job (and overall life) satisfaction
• Alleviates on-the-job stress
• Improves self esteem
• Builds stronger families
• Assists with the management of work and family responsibilities
• Allows parents to be more involved in their children’s lives
• Promotes commitment to activities outside of work, for example sport or community activities
Employer benefits of achieving work-life balance:

• Improves job satisfaction, commitment and retention
• Decreases absenteeism
• Increases job performance and productivity
• Lessens feelings of anger and resentment
• Improves accountability
• Increases employee engagement
Indicators you have a healthy work-life balance:

You feel satisfied overall with your work and personal life, feel physically and emotionally healthy, and have a sense of control over your life. You have a social life whilst still being able to fulfil responsibilities at home, at work and in your community.
Indicators you don’t have work-life balance:

You notice that you’re spending more time at work and you’ve increased your work hours to “catch up”. Your family and friends make comments that they rarely see you and you feel constantly tired, pressured, or that you’re losing control of your circumstances. You see more negatives than positives in your life.
How to begin a better work-life balance:

• Firstly recognise where you’re at, how you’re feeling, and whether your life is lacking balance.

• Identify attainable short-term goals that will bring more satisfaction into your life.

• Do not attempt to “go it alone”. You need the support of your family, friends, community and workplace.