Enjoying a better work-life integration

Mental HealthArticle28 September 2021

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Work-life balance is certainly a valuable consideration. However, sometimes this phrase can throw us off.

Speaking about work/life balance can give us an image of a scale with two sides equally weighted. “If we think of it as integration instead, we can remember it’s about how the pieces are fitting together, and they won’t necessarily be equal,” says career coach Michelle Landy.

Finding the right level of life balance can help reduce stress, increase job satisfaction, and give you more time for the things you enjoy. It’s a proactive step you can take towards looking after your mental health.

Below are some ideas for finding a work-life integration that works for you.

If you’re starting a new job

Some jobs are more difficult than others for finding work-life balance. If you have any choice in the job you’re taking on, it’s worth giving this some thought. “I really encourage people to think through those elements right at the beginning,” says Landy. “It’s not just about what you’ll be doing in the job that’s important, but how the job fits into the bigger picture.”

Switch on and switch off

Being focused on work during your working hours and on home when you’re at home is a big step towards a greater work-life integration. “The key to integration is actually being mindful of where you are,” Landy says.

The best way to do this is to think about the transition between the two, and find ways to help your mind make that switch.

Including a small daily ritual that helps your mind switch from work to home or vice versa can be useful. This could be as simple as taking a deep breath and reminding yourself to be present as you step in your front door.

What do you need?

Everyone’s idea of balance is different, so it’s important to find ways that work for you. Landy suggests you consider how the various aspects of your life make you feel. “The different ways we feel that life has meaning is where we get a sense of balance,” she explains. “If we top up the things that matter to us, we feel more balanced.”

Ask yourself, what are the things that make you feel grounded and focused? Some people, for example, find they need half an hour of exercise in the morning to function well during the day, while others have a morning cup of tea ritual that helps keep them grounded.

There’s a third ingredient

Two of the major aspects of work-life integration – work and family – are talked about a lot. However, there’s one thing missing from the conversation: you. Are you getting some time to yourself, to do the things you enjoy or find a lot of value in doing? What do you wish you had time for? What could you do that would motivate you more? What are the things you feel calm after doing?

Get specific with yourself. Rather than thinking you need to do some exercise, think instead about what type of exercise you’d really enjoy and when it would fit in best with your life.

Set boundaries and expectations

Let people know when you’re available. If you’re expected to work in the evenings or weekends, then tell your colleagues you’ll be checking your emails at a certain time and give yourself a break until then. “That takes some self-discipline,” Landy adds. Boundaries are a great way to protect your own mental safety whilst also communicating your needs with those around you, so they are able to get the results they need from you in a way that doesn’t compromise your mental health.

Do an annual review

Although getting your work and personal life to fit together well requires constant check-ins, it’s a good idea to give it some focused thought every so often. “Every year, do a major reflection on how all the elements in your life are going,” suggests Landy. “Focus on two elements: what’s working and what needs to change.”

Research


This article was provided by SuperFriend, a national mental health organisation helping workplaces improve mental health and wellbeing for their employees and customers.