Between heavy workloads, relationships, and personal interests, finding a work-life balance with day-to-day responsibilities can feel overwhelming. Research indicates overworking and extensive hours on the clock can have a negative impact on both employees’ mental health and their companies. If jobs are too demanding, exhausting, or chaotic, it can be challenging to maintain personal success.
Yet, in practice, it can be difficult to surpass unhealthy work habits and achieve a sustainable work-life balance. A healthy work-life balance involves managing time and energy to meet both personal and professional commitments while emphasizing self-care needs and overall well-being. Research suggests finding work-life balance is not an overnight adjustment, but rather a continuous cycle throughout situations and priorities.
Why is work-life balance so important?
Increased stress levels can weaken immune systems and affect productivity. In the workplace, balanced and happy employees are more productive, take fewer sick days, and feel supported in their roles. To loosen the grip of stress and invite balance back into our lives, try implementing some of these practical steps at work and at home to increase your work-life balance.
At Work
- Set manageable goals and attainable priorities each day to eliminate unrealistic workloads.
- Communicate honestly with colleagues or your supervisor. Suggest practical alternatives to reduce your stress in a calm and rational way.
- Divide heavy projects into smaller tasks to increase productivity.
- Take five and give yourself a break to clear your head.
At Home
- Divide and conquer at-home responsibilities in a clear and outlined way.
- Try not to overcommit and overflow your calendar with activities.
- Stay physically active and treat your body right.
- Share your feelings with friends and family to establish a strong support system.
- Reach out for help if you are consistently overwhelmed. Taking care of yourself is a sign of strength.
If you or a loved one are struggling with stress as an impact on your mental health, Oaks offers caring, compassionate programs for adults, children and families living with a mental illness. Our programs throughout New Jersey give individuals the opportunity to make healthy choices, stabilize symptoms of illness and eventually reach his or her full potential. To learn more about Oaks services, take the first step and call our Access Center at 1-800-963-3377.
