By Amber Shahid, ACW DE&I Committee Member
In today’s fast-paced and diverse work environment, achieving a healthy work-life balance can seem elusive. Through our journey and evolution over the past few years, companies have realized the importance of balance in all areas of the organization. Corporations that offer more inclusive programs and flexibility for all employees have seen productivity levels exceed expectations. Inclusion extends beyond having diversity in the workforce; it now involves fostering an environment where voices are heard, all individuals are respected, and a work-life balance is prioritized.
This balance is crucial for our well-being and sustained career success and growth. No two people or organizations are the same. This is why there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution to maintain our work-life balance. A few strategies employees and companies can utilize to maintain balance are as follows:
- Set Boundaries and Prioritize: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. Define specific work hours and stick to them as much as possible. Prioritize tasks based on importance and deadlines to avoid burnout. Companies have embraced the flexible workplace and offer more accommodations for individuals and their needs.
- Embrace Technology for Balance: Technology can be a very useful tool for achieving balance. Many platforms offer flexibility for employees to work remotely from anywhere in the world. We can use the available resources companies offer to our advantage and establish a balance in our personal and professional lives.
- Disconnect and Recharge: Allocate time to disconnect from your workload. For some, this means taking time each day to connect to their faith. For others, it means taking breaks and completely unplugging from work obligations. Employers understand the importance of recharging spiritually, mentally, and physically. They have established more designated spaces in offices that offer a place to take breaks from work and reset throughout the day.
- Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed, both at work and at home. Building a support network of colleagues, friends, and family can provide emotional support and valuable advice. Leaders are becoming more aware of their employees’ well-being and the importance of establishing accessible mental health resources and burnout prevention strategies.
Achieving a healthy work-life balance is a dynamic process that requires regular adjustments and self-awareness. Many companies’ inclusive strategies allow us all to breathe a little easier. There is always room for improvement, and corporations continue to adapt to the changes in the workforce. We as individuals also need to take responsibility for maintaining our balance. Each of us needs to implement a set of strategies that best fit our situation and take advantage of the resources available to us in our professional and personal lives.
