Our best tips to secure a better work-life balance

Work and home life balance means having the time and energy to meet your work responsibilities while also maintaining your health, relationships and hobbies. Many people don’t recognise the importance of work life balance for good mental health. Yet a healthy and balanced work-home routine can:¹

• prevent burnout
• reduce work stress and work anxiety
• enhance productivity and concentration
• increase job satisfaction
• support healthier lifestyle choices, such as exercise, nutrition and sleep
• improve relationships with friends and family
• lower the risk of chronic health issues

According to the World Health Organisation, excessive workloads and poor working environments are major risks for mental wellbeing.² Setting clear boundaries between work and personal life can help protect your mental health and work and home life balance. 

A healthy work-life balance for mental health is built on four core areas: boundaries, time management, flexibility, and wellbeing.¹

Boundary setting 

1. Set and stick to a work routine: A regular schedule helps keep work and personal time separate. Try sticking to specific start and end times for your workday, especially if you work remotely 
2. Create a dedicated workspace: If you work from home, find a specific area you can use just for work to help keep it separate from personal spaces
3. Give yourself a break: Take regular breaks to recharge and improve your concentration, whether you work from home or on-site
4. Set boundaries with others: If you work from home, let your family know when you shouldn't be disturbed unless it’s an emergency. Likewise, set boundaries with work so you can switch off at the end of the day 
5. Check your working hours: While many adults take on overtime for financial reasons, there are legal limits to the weekly hours an employer can make a person work in the UK.⁴ These limits are designed to protect your health and wellbeing

Time management

6. Use time management tools: Use calendars, to-do lists or task management apps to organise and prioritise tasks effectively
7. Work on one activity at a time: Prioritise your most important tasks and concentrate on one at a time instead of multitasking
8. Work smarter, not harder: Prioritise tasks and use tools that help you work more efficiently 
9. Paid time off: If you’re entitled to paid time off work, use it and plan some relaxation time in advance

Flexibility

10. Explore remote working options: If it’s available through your employer, consider working from home to save commuting time and create a more comfortable working environment
11. Ask about flexible hours: Ask about flexible work hours that better suit your personal needs and peak productivity times to help keep a good work-life balance
12. Discuss work expectations: Talk openly with your employer about workload, deadlines and the need for flexibility

Wellbeing

13. Manage work-related stress: Try stress management techniques. Our stress guide has ideas to help you get started
14. Schedule personal time:  Set aside time for hobbies, exercise and relaxation, just as you would for work tasks
15. Mindfulness and relaxation: Practice meditation, yoga or deep breathing exercises to help manage stress
16. Try work wellness programs: Check if your employer offers any health or wellbeing perks, such as fitness classes, counselling services or stress management workshops
17. Plan enjoyable activities: Not only will these give you something to look forward to, but they can help reinforce the boundary between work and personal time

Maintaining a healthy work life balance and good mental health takes ongoing effort. And as life changes, so will your priorities and routines. For instance, work may need more attention some weeks, while your health or family may come first at other times. So remember, what works now may change as your circumstances evolve. By regularly checking in with yourself, you can adjust your routine to support what matters most. 

If you’d like more information about how to achieve a healthier work-life balance or improve your mental health, explore our free resources below:

• Burnout: signs, causes and ways to recover
• Sleep and mental health
• Diet and mental health