Work life balance is something that is often discussed in the media, but how can it help your business? Well, if done properly, it can lead to a happier, healthier workforce - who are more motivated and ready to work than ever. The phrase "work to live, don't live to work" springs to mind, but in this case it's more relevant than ever. If your staff feel all they do is work and have no time to see friends and family or spend time on personal pursuits their health and motivation levels can detiriorate.
Here are some of the benfits of promoting a good work/life balance amongst your employees:
Less stressed: If your staff aren't able to switch off at night, it's unlikely that they can relax between jobs, which can lead to high levels of stress. Sickness absence continues to increase as more and more people take time off for stress, and although it might seem that the last person in the office is the most dedicated, their efforts will go unnoticed if they continually need to take days off because they are under too much pressure. Encouraging everyone to keep late nights at the office to essential projects only could help reduce stress.
Fitter staff: Staff who don't feel tied to the office are more likely to be out and about being active, meaning they have more chance of staying fit and taking less time off work. Long hours in the office can often lead to unhealthy eating habits too, as people rely more and more on fast food in their busy lifestyle. If people have time to spend shopping and cooking at home, there's more chance that they will make healthy choices.
Happier staff: Happier people are proven to be healthier, and if your staff get time to spend with their family and friends their more likely to be in a good mood and ready to work after a weekend off!
