Many people experience overload and burnout as a result of the ongoing demands of their jobs combined with their personal obligations. As a PA or an EA this is often even more challenging as you are your Exec’s back-up and safety net, expected to step in to resolve urgent issues, even out of office hours. So, how can PAs achieve work-life balance in a role that demands you are on duty most of the time?
According to the Health and Safety Executive one in four people in the UK will experience mental health challenges at some point in their life. Mind, the mental health charity, set out a โThriving at work reportโ which sets out a framework of actions.
With this in mind Resume.io have provided their best advice for striking a work-life balance. Additionally, expert insights from the European Journal of Public Health (EUPHA) provide valuable information for those looking to find further information.
Top 5 tips for how PAs achieve work-life balance
Here are some top tips to help you achieve a better work-life balance, if you find yourself struggling to juggle your work responsibilities and personal life.
1. Self Reflection and mindfulness
Mindfulness and introspection can help us become more conscious of the circumstances around us. Gaining these abilities can significantly impact our capacity to balance our personal and work life. Making time during the day to centre ourselves, breathe deeply, and ground yourself. Physical and mental activities like exercise, meditation, and hobbies can help to achieve a healthy balance.
2. Delegate and outsource
Both at work and at home, delegating chores may be difficult for many people, determining which jobs may be assigned to others or outsourced in order to free up time for more crucial duties. Releasing control might result in a life that is more balanced and satisfying and remember that asking for help is perfectly fine.
3. Creating a support network
Seeking the support of friends, family, and coworkers to get through the challenges of balancing work and personal commitments. Letting others know exactly what is needed and what boundaries must be met.
4. Schedule downtime
Downtime is a luxury in our hyperconnected society. Scheduling regular leisure time to help toย relax and recharge, like a peaceful evening at home or a weekend getaway.
5. Unplug and disconnect
In the modern digital era, having a laptop or smartphone with us at all times makes staying connected for work effortless. Establishing limits on daily usage of technology and making an attempt to switch off during personal time. Turning off your work emails and notifications might help relax and be at ease.
European countries lead in recognising socioeconomic stress as a mental health
It has long been acknowledged that the socioeconomic backdrop shapes occupational stress and work-related mental health issues. These conditions are considered public health concerns in Europe, and these are outlined in the findings of the 2015 European Working Conditions Survey which implies that this also holds true for workplace well-being and associated support systems.ย
โOccupational stress and work-related mental health problems have long been recognised as public health concerns in Europe, due to the associated societal consequences in terms of, e.g. absenteeism, labour turnover and disability pension costs. However, to address wellbeing and productivity across the European workforce effectively, it has been argued that the traditional focus of occupational safety and health must be expanded to include an understanding and assessment of those factors that lead to healthy, satisfied and productive workers. Likewise, the WHO Commission on the Social Determinants of Health has advocated a proactive approach to the improvement of working conditions. โ
