The UK jobs market has seen the significant down turn in jobs advertised and vacancies filled compared to a year ago. Many factors are at play, including skills shortages in certain sectors. As workforces shrink at an unprecedented pace, many employees are finding it increasingly difficult to strike a healthy work-life balance. In fact, 85% of UK workers have experienced symptoms of burnout or exhaustion due to work demands, according to recent research by Reed.
Alarmingly, as a result, almost half (47%) of employees have felt they needed time off work for their mental health. And over a quarter (26%) of those who haven’t taken any time off for their mental health admitted they’ve needed to, but felt they couldn’t due to workplace pressures.
As Simon Baddeley, Managing Director of Business Services at leading recruitment company, Reed, says: “Taking care of your wellbeing isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity.
“Balancing the demands of work and life can be incredibly challenging, but prioritising your mental health and setting boundaries is essential for long-term career happiness and workplace productivity.”
Below, Simon shares his top tips for improving your work-life balance, so your wellbeing doesn’t take a hit, and you can continue to perform to your best ability.
Recognise the signs overworking
Work can have a profound impact on your wellbeing, both positively and negatively, explains Simon: “Establishing a healthy work-life balance is crucial. When you manage your time effectively, allowing space for rest and personal growth alongside a busy work schedule, you’re better equipped to handle challenges and develop in your career.”
First, however, you need to be able to recognise the signs that your work could be impacting your mental health.
“Many workers don’t realise they’re experiencing a work-life imbalance,” explains Simon. “Key indicators can include chronic fatigue, neglected relationships, difficulty switching off and declining physical or mental health.”
Left unchecked, these symptoms can lead to long-term consequences for a person’s wellbeing and professional performance.
“Working excessively long hours without adequate breaks is also a clear warning sign of a deteriorating work-life balance,” explains Simon. “This behaviour often leads to burnout, impacting both efficiency and health.”
Additionally, feeling irritated or experiencing a sense of dread when faced with work tasks may indicate deeper dissatisfaction or stress. Another common red flag is the inability or unwillingness to take time off.
“Without proper rest and personal time, individuals risk draining their energy reserves, ultimately reducing their ability to perform in work and enjoy life outside of work. Recognising these signs early is vital in addressing the root causes and restoring balance,” adds Simon.
Steps to take back work life balance
Set clear boundaries
Define your work hours and stick to them. Use tools like calendar blocking and communicate your boundaries with colleagues and managers.
Prioritise and delegate
Focus on high-priority tasks and learn to say no to non-essential activities. Wherever possible, delegate duties to free up your time.
Create a healthy routine
Regular breaks, good nutrition, physical exercise and sleep are all fundamental. Simple rituals like journaling or an end-of-day walk can help you switch off. It’s also important to physically separate your workspace from your relaxing space if possible.
Make time for what matters
Personal time matters just as much as work; even 15 minutes of ‘you time’ daily can shift your mindset. Reconnect with friends, family and hobbies, and don’t forget to plan short breaks or holidays. During your working day, set meetings for short breaks to help you keep refreshed. Use this time to stretch, walk or grab a coffee.
Talk to your employer
What’s concerning is that over a quarter (26%) of workers who have never taken time off for their mental health say they’ve needed to, but have felt unable to do so due to workload, fear of judgement or financial concerns.
Don’t hesitate to raise concerns about workload or wellbeing before burnout sets in. Despite increased awareness of mental health issues, the stigma persists. Flexible work arrangements and mental health resources can help to alleviate pressures.
Finding the joy in everyday
“Improving your work-life balance isn’t just about having more free time, it’s about protecting your mental health, nurturing your relationships and showing up as your best self, both at work and at home,” says Simon. “When you create space for rest and joy, you’re not slacking, you’re sustaining your wellbeing.”
Simon reinforced the significance of a balanced approach, stating: “Work-life balance isn’t about work disappearing entirely; it’s about intentional, sustainable trade-offs.
“Employers must also foster environments, where wellbeing isn’t just encouraged but strategically prioritised.”
Unfortunately, nearly a third (31%) of UK workers have felt discriminated against or stigmatised at work due to their mental health. This highlights the urgent need for both cultural and operational changes in how workplaces address mental health.
“There’s still progress to be made, especially for businesses, but I always encourage people to prioritise their wellbeing. Finding a healthy work-life balance isn’t just a luxury, it’s essential to feeling happier and more productive,” concludes Simon.
To download the eBook, ‘An employers guide to mental health in the workplace’, click here.
You may also find our coverage on why more workers value a good work life balance over pay a valuable read.
