When you just start working, you want to perform well at work, but guarding your limits is sometimes difficult. 31% of young workers accept overtime and high work pressure. The result? Work and personal life are increasingly intertwined. Time for yourself, friends, sports and shopping falls by the wayside, causing physical and mental stress. How do you create a healthy work-life balance? And how do you check if your balance is right? Vitality expert Paul Zwama gives you tips!
What is work-life balance?
"Work-life balance is not about a rigid separation between work and your free time," says vitality expert Paul. "It's about having time for the things that give you energy and not being constantly exhausted. Ask yourself: do I feel good after a work day and do I have energy left for other things?"
"When you just start working, you may struggle to find a good work-life balance. You want to prove yourself and may be inclined to always be available, which makes it difficult to set clear boundaries," Paul says.
Which workplace suits you?
A good work-life balance is different for everyone. Some like to work 60 hours a week, while others are happy with 24 hours. Do you value working from home and your own schedule? Or do you prefer structured office days? You will discover what makes you happy in your work simply by trying it out!
According to Paul, this is why it is important to stay true to yourself and choose a job that really suits you. "You shouldn't take a job because it sounds good on paper. Ask questions during your application about the work atmosphere and your tasks: does this really suit you? Find a place where you have a good click with your supervisor and with your team."
💡 Did you know that 70% of Gen Z would rather switch jobs if there is not a good click with colleagues? "A good way to test that click beforehand is to have lunch with your future colleagues, for example. That way you get an immediate taste of the atmosphere!"
Here's how to recognize the signs
It can be quite difficult to recognize that you are out of balance, especially if you are already busy and have little space to think about how you organize your life. Watch for these signs:
- Constant stress: You often feel tense, even when you're not at work. You feel this through palpitations, trouble sleeping, headaches and restlessness in your body and head.
- No time for yourself: After work, you are so tired that you have no energy left to do anything fun. A day where this is not the case is an exception.
- Relationships: You see friends and family less and notice that this affects your bond. You are less present in conversations and feel emotional distance toward those close to you.
- Lack of satisfaction: You derive less pleasure from activities you used to enjoy and experience less motivation.
Do you recognize these signs? Then now is the time to take a critical look at your work-life balance! "If you notice that you have been going to work reluctantly for three months, it is time to take action," Paul emphasizes.
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Learn to declare your needs: As a starter, you want to prove yourself. But remember: stating your limits is a sign of strength, not weakness. "Do you want a regular gym time, a break for a walk or time to recharge? Then indicate this to your manager," Paul advises.
Young professional Beshoy learned a lot about setting boundaries and asking for help during his traineeship. Read his story to find out what he discovered!
- Plan smart and clear: Use simple tools like Trello or a planner to organize your day. For example, use the Eisenhower matrix as a tool for this."
- Schedule moments of rest: " Breaks are just as important as work appointments. Whether it's a short walk or just taking your eyes off the screen, schedule these moments. This helps with staying focused."
- Say 'no' when necessary: " It can be difficult to say 'no' to extra work, but sometimes it is necessary to avoid overload."
- Take care of yourself: " Your lifestyle outside of work has a lot of impact on your energy level. Do you exercise enough? And do you have healthy habits? Consider getting enough sleep, eating healthy meals and drinking enough water. Try meditation, breathing exercises or yoga to really unwind."
Start the conversation!
Do you feel a work-life imbalance? If so, it’s important to open up a conversation with your manager. A talent manager can assist you with this. “Sometimes employees hold back from raising their concerns, thinking that nothing can change. But there are often more options than you might realise,” says Paul.
“Employers can make adjustments in your role, such as offering more flexibility or different responsibilities, which can directly boost your energy levels. By having this discussion, you give both yourself and your employer the chance to work together on solutions without it necessarily leading to a departure.”
Want to discuss your work-life balance with your manager? Then do so in person and take the time to do so. "Try to do this in person," says Paul. "Preferably face-to-face. Take your time for this conversation and make sure you pick a quiet moment."
Begin the conversation, for example, with, "I'd like to discuss something with you, because I've noticed that I'm not feeling so good about myself. I hope that together we can see how we can improve this."
Be open and honest about how you feel, and indicate that you want to look for solutions together. More is probably possible than you think!
