Many workers struggling to maintain work-life balance

While two-thirds (67 per cent) of Canadians are satisfied in the workplace, drawing the line between work and personal life seems to be a problem for some, according to a report from ADP Canada.

One in three (34 per cent) of all respondents feel they are not able to set boundaries at work when it comes to maintaining the balance. This is far more common among 13- to 34-year-olds (43 per cent) and 35- to 54-year-olds (31 per cent) than among those aged 55 and up (18 per cent).

Workers to cite the following reasons for feeling that they are not able to maintain work-life balance:

"As we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, where lines between work and our personal lives were blurred for many who worked from home, it will be important for employers to continue building a mindful and supportive work environment that provides employees with regular opportunities to discuss their priorities and encourages them to feel comfortable setting boundaries," says Ed Yuen, Vice President, Strategy and HR Outsourcing at ADP Canada.

Read more: Work breaks linked to better well-being, performance: Canadian study

As a result of the stresses, many workers feel the following:

Room for improvement

With these sentiments from workers, employers have opportunities to make the situation better, finds the survey of nearly 750 Canadian adult workers conducted Sept. 12 to 13, 2022.

Currently, only 40 per cent of employees say their manager or the management team checks in on them weekly. Some say this is done monthly (18 per cent), quarterly (10 per cent) or annually (four per cent). Over one in 10 (13 per cent) even say they get these less than once a year.

Also, while 53 per cent of all employees say their goals, feedback and expectations are not taken seriously, 28 per cent say otherwise. 

At least a quarter of workers across all ages do not feel heard: 25 per cent among 18- to 34-year olds; 31 per cent among 35- to 54-year-olds; and 26 per cent among 55-year-olds or older.

"Now, more than ever, employers should encourage employees to disconnect from work and set boundaries, while also providing them with the right support and resources to manage their work-life balance and achieve their career goals," says Yuen.

Read more: Paying for work versus paying for time

Here are five ways to support your team’s work-life balance in 2022, according to Sapling, an HR software company:

1. Work with team members to set goals.
2. Encourage team members to sign off after work.
3. Offer flexible work options.
4. Encourage time off.
5. Improve your employee benefits and perks.