Work-Life Balance Strategies: Finding a Healthier Rhythm in Work and Life

We are all trying to strive for this so called ‘work-life balance’ but are we actually achieving it and what does it look like to you? For many professionals, especially working parents, the pressure to be everything to everyone can feel relentless. The meeting overruns into school pick-up time, the emails stack up while you're trying to wind down, and the to-do list never seems to end.

The truth is, balance is rarely about perfect equality. It’s about making space for what matters and recognising when things are tipping too far in one direction. In my work as a coach and trainer, I often support people in reshaping their days, their thinking, and their habits to feel more in control and less overwhelmed. For clients to really understand their psychology to enable helpful and conducive thought patterns which create positive outcomes. 

Below are some practical strategies to help you take back that control and find a rhythm that works for both your professional ambitions and personal wellbeing.

1. Redefine What Balance Means to You

Forget the idealised version of balance where everything runs smoothly all the time. Real-life balance is flexible. It's about asking yourself, What matters most right now? Some weeks, work might take more of your energy; other weeks, home life needs your focus. The goal is not perfection, but alignment with your core true values and needs. 

2. Set Boundaries – and Honour Them

Boundaries are not barriers; they are there to protect you. Whether it's a firm finish time, not checking emails after 7pm, or taking a lunch break away from your screen – boundaries give you space to breathe. Communicate them clearly and kindly with colleagues and family alike. Boundaries start with self-respect.

3. Learn to Say No Without Guilt

Overcommitting is often a sign of wanting to do well, be liked, or not let others down. But the cost of always saying yes is usually your own wellbeing. If it’s not essential or aligned with your goals, it’s okay to say no. Saying no to one thing often means saying yes to your time, your peace of mind, and your family, it can feel incredibly empowering. 

4. Be Fully Present – Wherever You Are

When you’re at work, be at work. When you’re with your children or loved ones, be with them. Trying to do both at once often leads to frustration and guilt. Practising mindfulness, even in small ways helps. Close tabs you’re not using, silence notifications, and try five deep breaths between meetings or before heading into the house at the end of the day. I often find a couple of drops of lavender oil on my wrists really helps calm the mind. 

5. Ask for Support

You don’t have to do everything alone. At work, delegate when possible and speak up when your workload becomes unsustainable. At home, ask for help from your partner, family, or friends. Seeking support is not a weakness, it’s a wise and proactive step towards maintaining your energy and performance.

6. Prioritise Your Energy, Not Just Your Time

We often think of balance as managing time, but it’s just as important to manage your energy. What drains you? What recharges you? Notice the patterns. Make space for exercise, rest, and the things that light you up. Even ten minutes of fresh air or an early night can shift your perspective, tomorrow is always a new day so if you had a bad day, put a line under it and start afresh the next day. You can write your own story and don’t have to fall into the trap of bad and unhelpful habits.

7. Let Go of the Guilt

So many working parents carry guilt, for not being at every school event, for not doing more at work, for wanting time alone. Guilt often comes from unrealistic expectations. Instead, try to focus on what you're doing well. Remember, your children benefit from seeing you pursue meaningful work and look after yourself. Try writing a success log diary every evening, to highlight all the great times you are doing. 

Work-life balance isn’t a destination – it’s an ongoing practice. Some weeks you’ll feel in control, others less so. Be kind to yourself in the process. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but by tuning into your own needs, setting clear boundaries, and letting go of guilt, you can create a life that feels more aligned, more sustainable, and more fulfilling.

If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, coaching can offer the space to pause, reflect, and find your way forward. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.

Want support in finding your version of balance? Let’s talk