Work Life Balance – A Guide to Mental Well Being in today’s ‘Always On’ Culture

Ever feel like work never really ends? Like your inbox demands attention even at midnight, and your to-do list only seems to grow? You’re not alone. In today’s fast-paced world, finding a balance between work and personal life can feel impossible. But the good news is—it’s not. You can create a healthier balance with the right mindset and strategies. Ability to maintain a healthy separation between work responsibilities and personal life helps reducing stress and burnout, increases job satisfaction and productivity and improves mental and physical wellbeing.

Why Work-Life Balance Matters?

Work isn’t just about meeting deadlines, it’s about working in a way that doesn’t drain you completely. When work takes over, stress builds up, leading to burnout, anxiety, and even physical health issues like heart problems. But when you set healthy boundaries, you’re not only happier but you’re also more productive and focused. Companies that encourage work-life balance see less employee burnout, higher job satisfaction and more employee retention.

Why It’s So Hard to Balance Work and Life

The struggle looks different for everyone.

Workplace Pressure: High expectations, long hours, and a culture that rewards overworking.

Family Responsibilities: Parents juggle work with childcare, while others struggle to make time for loved ones.

Technology Overload: Emails and messages don’t stop just because the workday is over.

Career & Industry Demands: Shift workers, freelancers, and corporate employees all face different challenges when it comes to balance.

For working mothers, the challenge is even greater. Workplace biases, limited maternity leave, and the never-ending balancing act between career and family make it extra tough.

How to Create a Better Work-Life Balance

The goal isn’t perfect balance—it’s finding what works for you. Here’s how:

1. Prioritize Smartly

Not everything is urgent! Try the Eisenhower Matrix—sort tasks into urgent, important, delegate, or drop it.
Keep your to-do list short. Focus on completing tasks, not just collecting them.

2. Manage Your Time Well

Use the Pomodoro Technique—work in 25-minute focused sessions, then take a break.
Schedule work and personal time like appointments—and stick to them.

3. Set Boundaries (And Stick to Them!)

Define your work hours and don’t go beyond them.
Turn off work notifications when the day is done.
Let your boss and coworkers know when you’re offline.

4. Take Care of Yourself

Move your body—exercise, stretch, or take a walk.
Find hobbies that make you happy.
Create a simple “end-of-work” routine to mentally clock out.

5. Special Tips for Working Moms

Plan meals and mornings in advance to reduce stress.
Build a support system—family, babysitters, or flexible work arrangements.
Don’t feel guilty about taking care of yourself. A happy, rested you is the best version for your family and work.

How Employers Can Help?

Companies play a huge role in work-life balance.

Supportive workplaces offer:

Flexible work options like remote or hybrid schedules.
Mental health support through open conversations and wellness programs.
Time-off policies that actually encourage breaks and vacations.

There’s no perfect work-life balance, and that’s okay. Some days will be work-heavy, while others will be all about family or personal time. The key is to create a balance that feels right for you—and adjust it as life changes.

At the end of the day, you matter. Your health, happiness, and well-being deserve as much attention as your work.

-Dr. Ishan Pandya

Psychodermatologist and Psychologist/Therapist

Vibha Healing Centre