AM Exclusive Technicity Newsletter Issue 2 | Page 2

HOW IMPORTANT IS A WORK-LIFE BALANCE? YOU’LL ENJOY WORK MORE You may already get a kick out of your job, but for some, this can be accompanied by a sense of dread of what the day might hold. When your work-life balance is out of whack, any problems at work can seem worse than they are, and it’s easy to lose perspective. Knowing how to switch off and being able to actively disengage from work—whether it’s for the evening or the weekend—is key to being able to enjoy your job. If you spend all of your waking hours in the workplace, you’ll forget that there’s a world outside where it’s equally possible to find satisfying and stimulating experiences. Finding other ways to spend your time and creating a little more harmony in your schedule will help make work feel less of a chore, and any problems that crop up seem less overwhelming. INCREASE YOUR PRODUCTIVITY I If all of the other reasons to introduce more balance in your life are falling on deaf ears, here is one thing which should get your attention: productivity. f you’re committed to your career and are happy to work hard, you may well feel that the current buzz around work-life balance is overrated. However, although what’s right is different for everyone, there are benefits to stopping to reflect on your lifestyle. No matter how much you love your job, it is possible to have too much of a good thing. Balance in all areas is what makes individuals happy and well-rounded and ultimately prevents burnout. Here are just a few reasons why having a work-life balance is so important. BOOST YOUR HEALTH As an IT Leader, long hours are part and parcel of the role, but regular breaks are still essential. If you put your body under too much stress for too long, cracks will start to appear. Exhaustion shows in many different ways, but it often starts with a weakened immune system. Whether it’s being constantly under the weather, tired, or feeling stressed, it’s important to recognize the signs early. Give your body a break when it needs it, and your overall health will respond positively. Don’t be tempted to dismiss this important sign or else you could find you end up taking an enforced break. Whether it’s solving a tricky task or hitting the heights of productivity, your brain requires a rest. By changing the scene and doing something different, you’ll give your performance a real boost. Whether that’s a yoga class, a meal with friends, or even cleaning your house, taking some time away from your job will enhance your productivity in the longer term. FIND WHAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU There’s no right or wrong work-life balance, and what feels comfortable to one person may seem unfeasible for another. Understanding your own physical, emotional, and mental health will allow you to create a work-life balance which will leave you refreshed, renewed, and ready to face another day.