Have you achieved a perfect work-life balance during lockdown?

Half of Brits feel they have achieved the perfect balance in life – as lockdown has allowed them more time to do the things they love.

A study of 2,000 adults who have been working from home found the global pandemic and lockdown restrictions has had a huge impact on work life balance for many – for the better. The shift meant 47 per cent have been able to spend more time on the things they love, with reading (43 per cent), cooking (43 per cent) and gardening (41 per cent) the most popular pastimes. And many are enjoying the slower pace to life with 28 per cent exercising at home throughout the day and 22 per cent making breakfast in the morning.

The research was commissioned by Cadbury to launch its Nuttier bar, which helps Brits find the right balance when snacking. It also emerged that of those who now consider their work life balance to be perfect, more than a quarter don’t think they could have achieved it without the lockdowns. But 51 per cent are worried about maintaining it as life begins to return to normal.

A spokesman for Cadbury said: “For many, life was previously a whirlwind of work, social events, and family commitments. But lockdown meant that many of us slowed down, freeing up time they did not have before, and allowing them to focus on the things they enjoy and love the most.”

The importance for balance is clear with eight in 10 considering it important to have a good work life balance, with 71 per cent claiming it makes them happier. For six in 10, it helps their mental health and wellbeing, while 66 per cent said it leads to less stress. But 53 per cent also feel it improves their relationships and 48 per cent believes it helps to maintain your physical health.

It also emerged that being able to set time aside for yourself to enjoy the things you love is when you achieve the perfect life balance, according to 45 per cent of adults. Others believe it is when you have clear boundaries between work and personal life (42 per cent).

Cadbury’s spokesman added: “The Cadbury Nuttier range offers consumers the opportunity to enjoy the best of both sides and live a life of balance. Whether they are looking for a bar packed with fibre or something a little sweeter, the Nuttier bar has something for everyone.”

TOP 10 ACTIVITIES AS A RESULT OF HAVING A PERFECT LIFE BALANCE

1. Reading
2. Cooking
3. Gardening
4. Spending time with family
5. Online shopping
6. Improving your home
7. Home workouts
8. Making breakfast in the morning
9. Playing video games
10. Listening to a podcast