Creating a healthy work-life balance
Read our top tips
As we approach the summer holiday season, lots of us will be thinking of taking some time off. It could be a staycation, a trip abroad or taking time off to simply relax.
But if you have a heavy workload or you're struggling at work, wanting to take time off can lead to additional pressures. It may mean working longer hours as we try to wrap things up which could result in us feeling burnt out or not being able to switch off from work.
Having a poor work-life balance can reduce our performance, productivity, creativity and morale.
Have regular check-ins with your line manager. If you feel comfortable, share how you are feeling with your manager and ask for help with managing your workload. If you're taking time off it can be useful to find out if there's cover for your role so you can plan to hand work over.
Make the most of flexible working. Having control over where, when and how you work can make a big difference to productivity and wellbeing. If your workplace allows, working from home or varying your hours can help to manage your own time successfully.
Take regular breaks. Take full lunch breaks and rest after busy periods. Try to use any holiday you're entitled to. Having a few days off can help us feel refreshed and even increase productivity in the long run.
Develop end-of-day habits. Finish your working day by tidying your workspace or making a to-do list for tomorrow. This can help you switch off from work especially if you're working from home.
Reward yourself for achievements. Rather than only focusing on work that needs to be done next, reward yourself for tasks you've completed. The rewards could be taking a break to read, chatting with co-workers or spending time outside.
It's important to remember that you don't have to be perfect all the time. Work with your limitations and try to be kind to yourself.
Find more ways we can support you to be mentally healthy at work.
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