Who Else Wants to Reduce Their Workload?

A recent study suggests that working long hours may be riskier than you think.

Overwork is the single biggest risk factor for occupational disease, and it directly contributes to three quarters of a million heart disease and stroke fatalities per year. That is what experts from the World Health Organization and other groups claim.

One might have assumed that the pandemic would have improved the situation, yet so many workers were able to make up for their missed commuting time. However, it might have had the opposite effect.

The average workday grew by over 50 minutes after the initial orders to stay at home, according to US government statistics. In a poll by the staffing firm Robert Half, it was discovered that 70% of these new remote workers also work weekends.

The major argument for monitoring your schedule is your health, but productivity is also in jeopardy. Numerous studies indicate that a 38-hour work week is the ideal amount of time to work before your performance starts to suffer.

You will gain a lot by leaving work on time. Try putting these suggestions into practice, either by yourself or in cooperation with your boss and coworkers.

Steps to Take on Your Own:

1. Consider Your Attitude

Do you exaggerate your level of activity? Maybe you're trying to convince people of your importance. You will surely have more significance and pleasure when you work toward your personal goals and create close connections.

2. Create a Daily Schedule

Plan your day so that you won't have to work extra hard in the final few hours. Focus on the tasks that are most essential and vital to you.

3. Set Realistic Objectives

Perhaps you're attempting to do too much. Keep a time log to find out how much time is truly required for routine tasks. It frequently takes longer than you expect.

4. Lessen External Distractions

You might spend all of your working week on paperwork and Zoom calls. If at all possible, try to cut down on the amount of pointless meetings, and turn off your phone when you need to concentrate. Take breaks before you become fatigued.

5. Utilize Technology

Apps and automation might help you work more productively. Utilize software to organize emails, edit documents, create custom news alerts, and proofread documents.

6. Understand Boundaries

It will be easier for you to relax if you maintain a clear separation between your personal and work lives. If you work from home, create a special space for office supplies and papers. It might be a certain area of your living room or the whole thing. Try to avoid utilizing your bedroom.

7. Develop Transferable Skills

Create habits that will help you turn your attention away from work at the end of the day. You may go to an evening workout or listen to podcasts as you drive home.

8. Look for Yourself

If you work too much, you could forget about your needs. Prioritize getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and exercising frequently.

Why Working Too Much Is Terrible For You Video:

How to Speak to Your Boss and Colleagues

1. First, Ascertain Your Availability

Many employees sense constant pressure to be available. If there are no emergencies, let folks know when you will be available and when you will be taking time off.

2. Examine Workflow

By having weekly staff meetings and one-on-one interactions with your manager, you and your team can stay on task. Perhaps you're succeeding, or perhaps a different approach might be preferable.

3. Talk About Your Flexibility

Many employees would like to keep working some of their jobs from home. With your manager, go over the pros and cons of shorter workweeks, hybrid jobs, and other options.

4. Lead by Example

It is advantageous for both you and your employees to set realistic goals for yourself. If you hold a managerial or executive role, this is especially true.

Live a Life You Love

You may protect your health and wellness by keeping a work-life balance and setting limits on your working hours. You'll put forth more effort while experiencing less stress.