From 7 to 11 October, the UK celebrates National Work Life Week. Now in its 14th year, the week raises awareness of the impact of work-related stress and long hours on all our lives.
As society becomes more open to discussing mental health and following the rise in flexible working in the wake of the Covid pandemic, these discussions are more important than ever.
Whether you’re an employer or an employee, there is plenty you can do to look after yourself and others. You might even find that the tips you pick up can be transferred into your life beyond work, helping you find the perfect balance in retirement.
Take control of your work-life balance as an employee
As well as National Work Life Week, the next few weeks also celebrate International Week of Happiness at Work (23-27 September).
We all spend such a large part of our lives at work that it’s no surprise that our working environment can have a significant impact on our home life too.
According to the organisers of International Week of Happiness at Work, 27% of employees have one or more “bad” workdays each week. Legal & General, meanwhile, find that 40% of UK workers admit to neglecting their mental health because of work. And 60% say that overwork has harmed relationships at home.
There are some simple steps you can take to better manage your work-life balance. Here are three of them.
1. Make sure that your break is time spent away from work
The Slack Workforce Index surveyed more than 10,000 desk workers worldwide and found that around half didn’t take a break during the working day. Those that did, though, had 13% higher productivity.
Take a lunch break away from your desk, try a walk and some fresh air. Be sure to take your full hour and don’t check work emails at this time. Instead, consider deep breathing and other mindfulness techniques to help you relax.
2. Create a clear distinction between work and home life
When you clock off, be sure to make a clear distinction between your work and home life. Turn off all notifications and don’t check work emails when you get home.
If you work from home, be sure to close your office door or put your laptop in a drawer where you can’t see or access it.
3. Share tips with colleagues to start a conversation
In our modern world, being busy can sometimes be seen as a symbol of status. In fact, the Scotsman recently reported that more than 90% of British business owners work while on holiday.
Instead, adopt the Swedish principle of “lagom”, or “just the right amount”. Complete your day’s tasks, leave work in the office, and return feeling refreshed and able to focus. And then share your experiences with colleagues so that they can improve their work life balance too.
Work-life balance as an employee
Whether as a manager or a business owner, you have a responsibility to the people that answer to you.
A 2019 study by Oxford University found that happy employers are 13% more productive. Harvard University research, meanwhile, went further, finding that happy employees increased:
- Accuracy by 19%
- Productivity by 31%
- Sales by 37%.
You might also find that happier employees take less time off sick. FTAdviser reports that employee ill health costs UK businesses more than £138 billion in 2023.
As an employer, you might improve the work-life balance of your employees by:
- Organising workshops and seminars to discuss stress management and find ways to improve staff wellbeing
- Promoting flexible working, helping your employees to work in a way that makes sense for them
- Encouraging regular breaks and time off to ensure employees are well-rested
- Supporting mental health initiatives and encouraging open and frank discussion.
Remember, a happy work environment starts with you.
Be sure to take these balancing skills into your retirement
Managing your mental health and balancing your various commitments isn’t something that only matters during your career. You need to take these principles into your life beyond work.
Retirement can be a culture shock and you could find yourself with too many or too few draws on your time.
Focus on your own mental health and wellbeing, be open with friends and loved ones, and be sure to do the things that make you happy.
Get in touch
If you have any questions about your long-term retirement plans, speak to us now. Get in touch by emailing hello@fingerprintfp.co.uk or calling 03452 100 100.
Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.
