Finding that perfect work-life balance isn’t easy. Here are some tips to help you take it down a gear or two…
- Take regular breaks
Throughout the day you want to aim to take a break every 90 minutes. Get up and stretch, go and talk to someone, eat something, focus your eyes on something else.
- Unwind from work
Establish an unwinding routine at the end of a working day. During the last half an hour, make a to-do list for the next day and clear your desk. Your mind and body will start to anticipate winding down.
- Turn off the telly
If you’re mentally tired, sitting and watching tv is probably the least effective way to unwind. Get away from the screen and find somewhere you feel comfortable, happy and relaxed.
- Change your commute
People who drive to and from work are the most stressed and least able to concentrate. Public transport has been found to be better for stress levels, because it provides time to socialise or read, although cycling or walking are better.
- Book in socialising
Regularly timetable events such a cooking a meal or seeing friends, because if it’s in your diary it’s more likely to happen. Spending time with friends or doing things you enjoy can reduce stress hormones and help to distract you from work worries and pressures.
- Ration technology
Switch off your phone after work or disable emails. The daily bombardment from texts, emails and social media causes ‘decision fatigue’. Limit yourself to checking emails three times a day, rather than as and when they come in.