There has been a lot discussion in recent years about work-life balance and the impact that can have on individuals.
There can be a tendency, particularly in certain industries, to spend as much time in the office as we do with our loved ones at home.
The fact that we have just been through the longest and deepest recession in living memory has also meant that the workplace is now more competitive than it has ever been. Everyone is having to go the extra mile to prove their commitment and justify their role.
You have to be sensible and it is always important to take time out to relax and recharge your batteries. No one can survive for long if they are completely obsessed by work; that route will only lead to increased stress levels and can ultimately be counter-productive.
Taking time out also allows you to review the work that you have done. You cannot underestimate the importance of this - taking a step back to reflect on your achievements and note where you can improve is a critical part of any good career plan.
As an employer, I always encourage my staff not to let their work take over their life. Don't get me wrong, I want to see maximum productivity of course. But even the most driven and hard working people ensure that they keep a good work-life balance. It's good to have something else to focus on rather than just the office.
At the same time though, I am a firm believer that you get out what you put in. Every individual has different drivers and motivations. Some people want to have a fixed 9-5 which allows them ample time for a life outside of work. Others have a mentality of working however many hours it takes for them to achieve certain goals. There is no right or wrong approach - but you should ensure that the company you choose allows the balance you are looking for.
I would say that the most important aspect of a healthy work-life balance is how you actually view your job. Is it something you enjoy or do you see it as a burden which you need to get away from?
I personally consider myself very fortunate because I have always loved the work that I do and get a lot of pleasure and fulfilment from it. When people ask me what my hobby is, it's very simple - running a business, the same as my day job. Now this obviously isn't the case for everybody, but the principle remains the same. Enjoyment should not be an alternative to your job - it should be part of it.
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