Trying to climb the career ladder and working from home during this pandemic means that more people think to work hard and long. The lack of social gathers and activities means we are spending more time behind our desks. Balancing a good work-life balance can be challenging, but it’s essential! Achieving a more balanced work-life ratio has numerous positive effects, including less stress, a lower risk of burnout, and a greater sense of well-being.

Remember that there is a life after work where it is not normal to feel discomfort, pain, or fatigue. We are looking for a work-life balance in which a person gives equal priority to the demands of his career as to the demands of his or her personal life.

There is a life after work

When creating a routine that works for you, think about the best way to find balance. We should feel comfortable making personal choices and remember that there is a life after work.

1) Accept that there is no ‘perfect’ work-life balance

The perfect situation is that we have a productive day and finish our to-do list before our workday ends, and leave early. Unfortunately, this is not always possible. Aim for a realistic schedule where sometimes it’s okay to spend more time at work and other times spend more time with family or friends. Balanced is achieved over time and not in a minute or a day.

2) Work smarter, not harder

Of course, we all have days when we work long hours and feel completely unproductive. However, it’s good to remember that we can do things to be more productive. Try to prioritize your tasks or to-do list and schedule blocks for meetings and breaks, or important activities, so that you end each productive day feeling satisfied.

3) Take holidays (even when you can’t travel)

Time to unplug and make time for yourself is a priority. Especially during this time where the pandemic changed many things, it seems more contradictive to take holidays and time for yourself. Experts say that we need time off from work now more than ever. Not only has taking paid time off been proven to increase happiness in your job also your productivity.

4) Make social arrangements (and stick to them)

Meeting up with friends or family makes you more productive during your workday. You don’t want to be late or miss a fun evening. Seeing other people is a way to release endorphins (happy feelings) that will help you get through the workweek. These don’t have to be extroverted things or meetings, just a walk with a friend or a cup of coffee can be enough.

How can Fit for Work help?

To learn more about setting up or managing an ergonomics program that supports staff working from home or in the office or support with staying legally compliant, you can reach out to Fit for Work. For more information on our Ergonomics Self-Assessment and Education Tool, contact us.