health
WORK-LIFE BALANCE
The new work-life balance People in Jo’burg are some of the most stressed people on the planet, with our poor work-life balance being partially to blame. Here’s how to keep yours in check.
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Spring 2021
JO’BURG IS IN THE TOP 20 OF THE MOST STRESSEDOUT CITIES IN THE WORLD, according to sleep research site Savvy Sleeper’s 2018 study, conducted to determine the world’s cities with the highest levels of workplace burnout. Furthermore, a 2020 report released by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) revealed that 18.1% of the workforce worked more than 50 hours a week, ranking us at fourth in the world. And ‘grind culture’ – or giving off the appearance of constantly working – is part of the problem.
“Being busy suggests importance, which some people can see as a sign of success,” says registered counsellor and psychometrist, Lisa Schatz. “This way of thinking, however, can lead to an unhealthy amount of stress and potentially cause physical or mental health issues, such as burnout.”
Spot the signs Is your work-life balance out of whack? Some common signs that indicate it’s time for a change include: • Mental and physical exhaustion • Forgetfulness • Feeling overwhelmed and irritable sanlamreality.co.za
