For leaders, achieving work-life balance has always been a tightrope walk. The demands of the job can easily spill over into personal time, which if not managed appropriate can lead to stress, burnout, and ultimately, a decline in effectiveness.
However, the rise of remote work has added a new layer of complexity to this challenge. While it offers flexibility and potential time savings, it can also blur the lines between work and personal life, making it difficult to truly switch off.
Remote Work and its Impact
A study by Stanford University found that during the initial shift to remote work in 2020, average workweeks actually increased by 3 hours. This suggests that the ability to work anytime, anywhere can lead to leaders feeling constantly “on call,” making it harder to disconnect and recharge.
Despite this, a recent survey actually revealed that 90% of remote workers reported feeling a better work-life balance. This was be attributed to factors like avoiding the commute, having more control over their schedules, and being able to manage personal needs throughout the workday.
Finding Balance in the Remote / Hybrid World
So, whether you are part of the 90% who feel you have a better work-life balance or one of the 10% who doesn’t – how can leaders navigate the potential pitfalls of remote work and achieve a healthy work-life balance?
- Set Boundaries – Establish core work hours and stick to them as much as possible.
- Designate a Workspace – Having a dedicated workspace helps signal to your brain when it’s time to focus.
- Embrace Technology – Utilise time management tools and communication platforms that promote efficiency and asynchronous work. This allows leaders to complete tasks without needing everyone online at the same time.
- Schedule Breaks and Disconnect – Just like in an office setting, take regular breaks to step away from the computer, go for a walk, or connect with loved ones. Utilise tools that allow you to disconnect after work hours, like email auto-responders or notification silencing.
- Lead by Example – Leaders who prioritise their own well-being set the tone for the entire team. Encourage open communication about workload and personal needs among team members.
The Future
Remote and Hybrid work is here to stay for many organisations, and its impact on work-life balance will continue to evolve. The blend of in-person time with colleagues as well as hybrid and remote working is crucial for collaboration and effective working for many.
Being able to manage time whether in the office or at home is a key factor to ensuring that you have sufficient recharge time and balance workload and life!
