Setting boundaries for a better work-life balance

In today’s workplace, it doesn’t matter what position you’re in - work can bring a significant level of stress. Many jobs have targets and performance-related outcomes that we are regularly measured on. Our social circles can also be much wider due to the internet and social networking. There are times when pressures from one area affect others, such as our relationships, performance, motivation and general outlook on life.

Technology can make it increasingly difficult to separate work from our personal lives. The temptation to read work emails that come through to us on our phone in the evening can be just as strong as the temptation to check social media during working hours. But is it always possible to totally switch off at the end of the working day? On the other hand, is it possible to park that row you had with your partner that morning until you finish work?

As difficult as it can be to switch from one role to the other, there are some things we can do to help prevent one area of our lives creeping into another.

Creating healthy boundaries

It can be helpful to establish healthy boundaries between work and home life. Know your values and communicate them clearly.

For example, if you feel you have unreasonable deadlines or tasks, is it OK to speak to your manager? Is it OK to ask for assistance? Is it OK to say no?

If these pressures aren’t on your mind at home, it can help you concentrate on other things like helping the kids with their homework or enjoying a meal with friends.

When at work, consider how you manage personal texts, emails and social media so they don't become a constant distraction. This can help reduce procrastination and improve your concentration and productivity. Remember that there's a balance though; there are times when our families and friends need to contact us for something important.

Try developing healthy, supportive relationships outside of work. If you socialise with work colleagues, how about agreeing not to spend all your time talking about work?

It may sound easier said than done, particularly when working arrangements mean that work and home overlap, but creating some separation between different areas of your life can help you give each one the attention it needs.

If you have good supportive relationships, whether at work or at home, they can remind you when you’re crossing your own boundaries.