WORK LIFE BALANCE: PERFECTING THE STANCE IN 2017

Achieving work life balance has become a growing trend for families, according to an article penned in BBC. Increasingly, in an effort to gain a more productive and fulfilling life, employees are looking for ways to balance their work and personal lives. Similarly, offering a positive work environment can yield great benefits for your organization. We’ve analyzed five ways leadership can create a positive work life balance environment for employees.

1. Avoid overloading

Set realistic expectations that are attainable; make them a priority by creating tasks in an achievable amount of time, during work hours. Discourage employees from taking work home for or over the weekend. This teaches your employees time management and helps them master the work life balance.

2. Resources for managing stress

Creating interactive areas within your workplace can greatly reduce stress. Employees can burn off steam, leading to the overall health of the organization. If possible, offer services like on-site counseling.

3. Flexible telecommuting hours

Implement flexible schedules for employees to decrease commute times, redirecting the time back into working hours. Not only does telecommuting help reduce stress but it also reduces absences and saves you the employer money. Emphasize to your staff the importance of taking vacations and spending time with their families.

4. Retreats and Outings

Work outings and retreats offer employees an opportunity to regroup, rethink and reorganize. Collaborative environments that build teamwork and relationships will turn the office into a positive workplace. Off-site activities can range from dining together as an offer to volunteering with a local charity. On-site activities can include offering health classes like yoga, book clubs or free massages.

5. Work life balance in a “fun” workplace

Though the “office” has traditionally been known as a stiff “all business” environment, an increasing number of companies are changing this trend. Providing initiatives to make the office fun and welcoming. Events like “casual Friday”, office bingo and pizza and ice cream socials will definitely create a positive atmosphere.

The time and money invested in helping your employees achieve a healthy and positive work life balance are a plus for the company. Happy, healthy, and whole employees yield a positive ROI.