What is work-life balance?
At its core, work-life balance is about having enough time, physical and mental energy for both your job and personal life. It doesn’t mean splitting your day 50/50 between work and leisure, it’s about finding a balance that works for you. For some, it could mean flexible hours; for others, it’s being able to fully disconnect from emails on weekends.
Studies have shown that a poor work-life balance can lead to burnout, stress, and even health issues. A 2021 survey by Mental Health UK found that 1 in 5 workers felt their job was damaging their mental health. On the flip side, those with a healthy balance tend to be happier, more productive, and less likely to have to call in sick.
Why should you care about work-life balance?
When you’re just starting out, it’s easy to fall into a “hustle” mindset. You might feel pressure to work extra hours, take on every project, or always be available to prove yourself. While a good work ethic is crucial, overdoing it can lead to burnout and be ultimately counterproductive.
Balance isn’t a luxury - it’s a necessity. Prioritise it from the beginning, and you’ll set yourself up for a fulfilling and successful journey.
A study from the World Health Organisation (WHO) revealed that working 55 hours or more per week increases the risk of heart disease by 17%. That’s a sobering thought. Plus, overworking doesn’t actually mean you’ll be more productive. Research by Stanford University found that productivity sharply declines after 50 hours a week, with little to no output improvement beyond that point.
Taking care of yourself isn’t just good for you—it’s good for your employer too. Happier, well-rested employees are more creative, focused, and engaged. So, prioritising work-life balance isn’t lazy; it’s smart.
How to find employers who value work-life balance
Now that you know why it matters, how do you find companies that walk the talk? Here are a few tips:
Research Their Policies: Look for things like flexible working hours, homeworking options, or wellness programs. Companies that advertise these benefits are often more committed to balance.
Read Reviews: Websites like Glassdoor can give you insights into employee experiences. Look for mentions of workload, management support, and company culture. Keep in mind there can be a negative slant on review sites though.
Ask in Interviews: Don’t be afraid to ask about work-life balance during interviews. Questions like, “How does the company support employees’ well-being?” show you’re serious about finding the right fit.
Check for Certifications: Some organisations are recognised as great places to work by bodies like the Great Place to Work Institute or Investors in People.
Use technology: Many European countries have “right to disconnect” laws, meaning you can’t be contacted digitally or otherwise outside of working hours. But Outlook and most mobile operating systems support you setting your own boundaries on when you see messages.
How to Maintain Balance Once You’re Employed
Even if your employer values balance, maintaining it is ultimately up to you. Here’s how to keep things in check:
Set Boundaries: Don’t let work bleed into your personal time. This means saying no to non-urgent tasks outside of working hours and resisting the temptation to check emails late at night.
Plan and Use Your Annual Leave: Shockingly, a report by Glassdoor found that 40% of UK workers don’t take all their holiday entitlement. Taking breaks is essential for recharging and staying productive.
Prioritise Your Time: Learn to distinguish between urgent and important tasks. Use tools like to-do lists or time-blocking to keep on top of things without feeling overwhelmed.
Take Care of Your Health: Physical and mental health go hand in hand. Exercise, eat well, and make time for activities that help you relax. Don’t underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep!
Speak Up If You’re Struggling: If your workload becomes unmanageable, talk to your manager. A good employer will want to help you find a solution.
Stay Connected Outside Work: Nurture relationships with friends, family, and hobbies. These are the things that make life fulfilling and give you perspective when work gets tough.
The Bigger Picture
Balancing work and life isn’t just about avoiding burnout—it’s about creating a sustainable career you enjoy. Employers are increasingly recognising its importance, with many offering perks like mental health days, gym memberships, and flexible hours. And for good reason: a study by Oxford University found that happy workers are 13% more productive.
So, remember that balance isn’t a luxury - it’s a necessity. Prioritise it from the beginning, and you’ll set yourself up for a fulfilling and successful journey.
John Parkes is Head of Charity at Enginuity
The Student Engineer is a special channel of The Engineer aimed at educating and inspiring engineering undergraduates about the career opportunities in engineering and also offering practical advice on how they can access these opportunities.
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