Why you should strive for a good work/life balance
Life can be hectic - there are few people who would deny that. With a busy job, family commitments and fitting in time to spend with friends it can often feel like we’re being pulled in a million different directions. This is why getting a balance between work and your personal life is essential. Not only is it going to help you avoid burnout but you’ll be a far more productive leader, freelancer, entrepreneur or employee.
There is no doubt that at least a few people reading this article will have sacrificed personal time under the belief that it’s the only way to get ahead. Burnout, however, is a very real thing. When you don’t take the time to step back and recharge, not only will you potentially put your health in danger but damage relationships with those closest to you.
This also goes for any teams you manage. Make sure you check in regularly with them so you know if they have too much on their plate. Reassign tasks as needed and reach out to them if you see signs of stress or burnout.
It’s often easier said than done and no doubt many of us feel guilty when taking time off or pushing back on a request because of personal reasons. However, scheduling personal time and prioritizing self-care will benefit your company in the long run. Making time for exercise, hobbies and spending time with friends and family will all contribute to better mental health. That in turn will lead to us feeling refreshed and focused on a return to work - making us more productive.
A report by Harvard Business Review shows that a stable work/life balance dramatically boosts productivity, reduces turnover and improves employees' mental and physical health. When we feel fulfilled in our personal lives, it can translate to a positive attitude and improved performance in the workplace.