Thriving, not just surviving: achieving a positive work-life balance

The challenges within healthcare and the academic workplace impacting individual wellbeing are well documented. Everyone is burdened with a high workload, excessive working hours, stress, fatigue and trying to keep up with advancements within their specialism in a challenging workplace environment. Aware that we have significant staff shortages across the professions, research has shown that the retention of staff is impacted by working terms and conditions, and timely career and professional development.

The importance of achieving an effective work-life balance gained greater traction during the COVID-19 pandemic, even though retention in radiography due to work-life balance has been researched since the mid-2000s. The focus on work-life balance has often been on what you can do to improve your wellbeing. Developing an effective work-life balance cannot be underestimated; understanding yourself, applying a high level of emotional intelligence and considering a holistic view of what works for you is an important foundation. Research indicates that a positive work-life balance is broader than self: self-development can only thrive in a supportive, innovative and dynamic workplace culture.

A positive work-life balance is subjective, varying between individuals, each having unique values, priorities and circumstances that influence what a balanced life looks like for them. For some, it might mean having more time for family and interests, for others it could involve career advancement and personal growth. It is all about finding the right balance that aligns with your values and goals.

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