Today, many people are working longer hours and are more likely to stay connected to their work through technology. It can be hard to have a work-life balance, especially if you want to keep up with the demands of running a business. Overdoing it can have detrimental effects.
The US is 29th out of 40 countries regarding work-life balance. 11% of workers in the country work over 50 hours a week, which can negatively affect one’s health and stress levels. Implementing effective strategies to promote a healthy and productive work-life balance can help keep employees engaged and motivated.
1. Leave At A Decent Time
Working long hours can have detrimental effects on one’s health. According to a 2019 study, those who work over 50 hours a week are more prone to experiencing various health issues, such as heart disease and sleep loss. It’s essential to leave your job at a reasonable hour.
It’s hard to tell exactly how many hours you should work, as each business is different.
If you’re feeling guilty about not putting in enough time at work, it’s important to consider that working longer hours doesn’t always mean you’re more productive. Having a set number of hours you can spend at your company can help prevent overworking.
Working 40 hours a week is a good start. Having more free time can help boost your productivity and improve your health. It’s also important to note that taking time away from work can benefit your well-being.
2. Take Breaks
Fostering a culture of breaks can help keep your employees engaged and improve the creativity of the workplace. Under the Fair Labor Standards act, your workers are allowed to take short breaks of no more than 20 minutes during the workday. Whether taking a quick walk or getting up from the desk for a stretch, finding the time to take breaks throughout the day can help keep everyone focused.
3. Don’t Take On Excessive Work
If you’re still running a startup or have been in business for a long time, knowing when to stop working on too many tasks can help prevent you from overworking. Before you start working on a new project, check your current client list to see which ones are draining your energy and stress levels. Saying “no” to multiple tasks is vital to maintaining a healthy work-life balance.