Defining where work ends, and life starts has become increasingly difficult in recent years. When 73% of professionals experience burnout, it's time to make a change.
We are here to tell you that it is possible to give your people the tools they need to be their best in every aspect of life.
Let's explore what work-life balance means, four ways to encourage it, and its phenomenal benefits.
What Is Work-Life Balance?
Work-life balance or as our founder has termed “work-life harmony” involves doing meaningful work and making time for hobbies, recreation, and relationships. Your employees should feel equally energized and fulfilled by their personal and professional lives, and a healthy equilibrium helps them manage both.
This stability minimizes work-related stress and improves their social, mental, and physical health and well-being. Because people's lives are so unique, work-life balance means something different for everyone.
4 Ways to Improve Your Employees' Work-Life Balance
You have the power to enhance your team's working experience and support them in all areas of life. We've compiled four ways to promote work-life balance for employees.
1. Set Boundaries
Your workforce may feel pressured to answer emails, stay connected, and work continuously. You can prevent burnout and maximize productivity by establishing boundaries. Encourage taking short breaks throughout the workday and ensure employees know when to check their inbox, touch base, and sign out. Set a good example, and only send work-related messages during work hours.
2. Be Flexible
From appointments to family life and chores, people have different schedules, responsibilities, and circumstances. Cater to employees' individual needs with remote or asynchronous work hours and regular vacation time. Your workforce will have the flexibility to handle daily obligations and emergencies and do their most productive work. Giving them this power also shows you trust them, want them to be autonomous and value their well-being.
3. Customize Your Approach
An effective decision-maker recognizes that each employee is unique. Your work-life balance strategy should include multiple options to accommodate their preferences and ensure they get the satisfaction, happiness, and fulfillment they deserve. Ask your workforce about their experiences and what workplace changes they'd like to see through one-on-one meetings or employee surveys.
4. Restructure the Workday
A structural change can be the push your people need to be happier and perform better. Help employees get the most out of their day by giving them an unstructured work environment or upgrading their after-work routine. Doing so encourages creativity and innovation and gives them something to look forward to every day.
The Benefits of a Strong Work-Life Balance
Incorporating these work-life balancing tips transforms both your people and your company for the better. A strong work-life balance improves:
- Employee happiness: You play a critical role in your employees' job satisfaction. Demonstrating your commitment to creating a healthier, happier workplace is the best way to enhance their experience.
- Productivity: A happy workforce is 13% more productive. Employees will also have the energy to engage in after-hour recreation, bringing new and improved skills back to the office.
- Reduced absenteeism: Encouraging work-life balance can help reduce the number of employees taking sick days or personal days, as they are less likely to burn out or become overwhelmed.
- Improved employee retention: When employees feel that their employer cares about their well-being and supports their work-life balance, they are more likely to stay with the company long-term.
- Enhanced employer brand: Employers who prioritize work-life balance are often seen as more attractive to job seekers and can help create a positive reputation for the company.
- Better employee health: Prioritizing work-life balance can help reduce stress and burnout, leading to better physical and mental health outcomes for employees. This can also result in reduced healthcare costs for employers.
Encourage Work-Life Balance at the Office with Bundle
Bundle offers personalized, live one-on-one sessions to help employees connect, relax, and grow through fun and meaningful experiences. Our virtual sessions are interactive, hosted by vetted experts, and accessible worldwide. We give you the resources to improve work-life balance in a way that suits your company. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you support your workforce.
