We all know that it is essential to maintain a healthy balance between work, rest, relaxation and having fun, in order to perform at our best both at home and in work but doing so is so often easier said than done.
April is officially Stress Awareness Month, so it is the perfect time to reassess and ensure you aren’t sacrificing your free time to work overtime daily, especially at the expense of your personal wellbeing or health.
You should be trying to achieve a mix of work, relaxation and enjoyment but not always in equal measure. It’s important to consider what work-life balance means to you in order to set a goal that is meaningful. Finding the right balance will vary depending on circumstances such as having young children, starting a new job or business, or you’re simply going through a busy period.
Achieving work-life balance doesn’t mean you have to stop working hard, as many professions require us to do so. It is however, about getting the balance right and knowing how and when to switch off from work.
It’s vital that you don’t compare yourself to others. Remember everyone will have their own opinion of what work-life balance means to them. It’s pointless comparing yourself to colleagues, other business owners or parents as what works for one person or family situation can be completely different to another and each circumstance is different.
If you find yourself worrying about how your work-life balance impacts on those closest to you such as your children, try asking them how they feel. How are they doing and are they happy? If so, then try not to get caught up on what you think you are supposed be doing as defined by society, instead focus on the your own and your family’s needs.
Once you have outlined your goal create 2-3 actions that will help you to achieve your goal. This could be deciding exactly when to start and stop your working day, when to stop checking emails, or having designated quality time with friends and family. It could also be giving yourself permission to implement selfcare and activities that help combat stress.
It’s important to find activities that are most effective for you personally to help you switch off from work mode, it could be: catching up with a friend, making time for your interests and hobbies, having a massage, exercise, or something as simple as taking a relaxing bath. Making time for yourself and your own wellbeing is essential.
Bethany Ainsley provides specialist wellbeing support to help businesses and individuals reach optimal performance – find out more at 
